[dave]

Thinking of getting a Hobie mirage sport, as I like the idea of the sailing feature. Does anyone have a Hobie that they sail? If so are they any good under sail?

Thanks,
Dave

 

[outerlimit]

Don't think you'll find a kayak that will sail better than a Hobie.
The kayaks feature a strong, purpose built mast socket and a top quality sail with two-piece mast.
In my opinion from someone that regularly uses and sails a Hobie kayak they are great fun and easy to sail.

 

[PhilipL]

just check the sport though - unsure it has a sail option. Maybe it does - I don't think it has the dagger board option though. Suspect you can use the mirage drive as a substitute

 

[Jake]

The Sport also has a mast mount just like the Outback, and sails just as well.
I dont use the Hobie sail though, I find it too big and cumbersome.
Quite happy with the Spirit Sail.
Cheers,
Jake

 

[choke]

Hi Dave---I have an Outback--which I sometimes sail. It is difficult to sail in more than about 8 knots of wind --because of the size of the sail---So I have rigged a roller reefing--so I can reduce the sail size--which works quite well. I also found you can't point very high with the fins down as the centre board--so I have adapted a sail board centre board which works really good. The rudder is a bit small --for my liking--but I think you are able to get a bigger rudder now ?

I have had a LOT of fun sailing my Outback since these modifications and sailed in 15 knot winds.

If you want to see how I did these modifications look here>>>>

http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewt ... highlight=

Arty

 

[Jake]

As Choke says, 8 knots is about the maximum for the Hobie sail. Which makes me wonder why they made it like that.

I have had the Hobie out in a good 20 knots with the Spirit sail and the excess wind just spills over the top of the sail. There is no danger of being flipped by strong gusts of wind. If you want to you can harness that extra wind and hang on for a good ride but you can also release it by allowing the flexible mast stays to bend like a fishing rod.

I'll get some pics next time we go out sailing. Just a bit busy building a new deck at the moment!
Cheers,
Jake

 

[Les Lammers]

I have a mate that uses a Pacific Action sail from NZ on a Hobie Adventure and it works great. The sail is very easy to raise and lower and
since it lays down it is not a problem when fishing.