It was suggested when I signed up for the list that I post an email about myself and my boat. First, I don't have a boat I only dream of having one. I have sailed up wind surfers in the lakes of Indiana and I have sailed with a friend on his 18 ft prindle cat in the bay at Mobile AL. So you may ask why did I sign up for the list. I am very interested in sailing and I hope to one day buy a boat. I would like to start with a small boat I could trailer to many destinations like Florida or the Great Lakes. Any way it will be some time before I actually can realize this dream. I have two young children and they take much of my time. I like what I have read about the M17 but can some of you tell me why it is better that say a Hunter 21. They are about the same price new. I notice Hunter places a rating on their boats for the types of use. Obviously they don't recommend the 21 for off shore use how about the m17? Thanks Kyle