[quote=jalex]I am a Hobie 16\Gcat 5.7 owner. I believe the 5.0 and 5.7 are similar.
Don't shy away from an 18 foot boat for trailer reasons. They are not more difficult to trailer. Boats like the Prindle 18 and Gcat 5.7 are not more difficult to rig in my opinion, maybe a longer\heavier mast but not a big difference. I find my Gcat 5.7 and Hobie 16 take about the same time to rig. Gcats are known to be easy to rig
The jib on the gcat does attach at the front crossbar, but I find it does not inconvenience passengers much. However, it is not a hangout spot in decent wind, especially on the 5.0. Kids are ok in moderate conditions but when it picks up weight should be behind the mast. I strap a cooler to my front tramp all the time and it is no issue.
If you move to an 18 boat, it will have more weight capacity but doesn't really offer more significant tramp space.(Except maybe a Gcat5.7, but again the front tramp is not always usable) If you are looking for 4 passenger comfort, a winged boat may be in your future.
You can add a furling system, but the jib will be smaller, since it will attach at the bridles as opposed to the crossbar. Doubt this will have to much of an adverse impact. My Gcat has barber haulers, not sure if they are stock on the 5.0
Epoxy\fiberglass tape on the boat bottom is common practice. I find epoxy to be pretty user friendly, if the repair looks and feels solid it probably is good, and after a few seasons dragging in on the beach you will probably do it again anyway.
I like my Gcat rudder system, but replacement parts can be hard to find. Have not broken anything yet(Other than the transom but that was from being dropped on a bar by some major surf, can't really blame the boat) I buy spare anything whenever I can just in case.
Gcat 5.0 is a good choice, but you also already own a good choice. Maybe you could be a 2 boat family for a while and make a decision. Prindle 16 may sell a little easier, at least in my area.
Good luck<!-- editby --><em>Edited by jalex on Oct 11, 2016 - 07:08 PM.</em><!-- end editby --> [/quote]
No HTML tags allowed (except inside [code][/code] tags)
