Thanks, was an incredible experience. I’ll be making another behind the scenes film of the full week at one point - so much more to show - so watch this space.

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks, it’s a great suit. It’s a Typhoon Max B branded Neil Pryde (version no longer sold). Latest Max B has some improvements. Pricey but very well made, robust and a super comfortable piece of kit for sailing and multi sports. Easy in and out. Really useful pockets. I love the high neck warmer (which can roll away) and cuffs for when bitingly cold and windy.

Definitely can get the hull flying, but it’s not like a Hobie 16, as has skegs on each hull. And Hobie has shaped hulls. Skegs slightly resist wanting to fly, so it takes some extra skill keeping it flying completely out of water for long lengths of time. E.g. I might have it flying for 10s, but someone with more skill could have it flying 30s. Ideally, you really want to be skimming the hull anyway for best performance (whether on a a Minicat or Hobie).

The tracker said 3.7 miles, and paddling 1hr 40. That included stop offs. Was into the wind at some points though. A calm day and would be over too quick!

Well observed! The float is brilliant. I’m not keen on the mast head ones (mostly because of looks 😂) but also, right at the top, despite being reasonably lightweight, conventional mast floats still add some extra heft due to leverage if you’re sailing solo like me. But this float on the sail itself works perfectly. It’s nicer looking, super light and doesn’t get in the way at all. I can roll the sail up easy. But I do unclip it when stowing sail in bag. It’s made by and for X-cat. It comes in two halves and you thread a strap through eyelets at the top of your mainsail. (That’s the only nuisance - you need to put two eyelets in your sail). Not difficult though. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

I had the same thoughts as you when saw it, but it is awesome. A bit like iSUPs these days, technology has made the need for hard boards just necessary for high level completions etc. You really don’t sacrifice much for the convenience. But you gain so much from its packability and lightness. If you’re in doubt, watch this space, as I will properly be putting this through some seriously harsh conditions. All will be revealed soon!

Not monica, Minicat! Thanks autocorrect.

Me too!