AI: today I learned something...

Yes, Sebast, this is helpful and interesting to know about the AI experience (because I don't have one). Speaking from Hobie 18 perspective when you're running, sometimes you're standing on the transom as nosing in is the most common way to pitch pole. And although its a bumpy ride, in catamarans, broad reach is normally (much) faster downwind than a run (and less dangerous)...Keep sharing.

Disclaimer: I have very limited knowledge of sailing and boating, though read a lot, so take these with grain of salt.

In AI in general you are sitting and always low - not sure if Hobie 18 is similar. I saw videos of AI folk staying on the transom (I think it's very rare), I definitely feel I'd love it if I could. Moving from cramped position to stand-up for me at 6'5" would require some training

Another problem is that on a broad reach at 20 kts and 4ft there is lots of play. For one I don't feel AKAs are secure enough against strong lateral force (maybe it's me, but there are many reports of AKA disconnecting. And you *feel* AKAs trembling).

Secondly, since I'm literally sitting in the water every wave is not just going over me (it's OK, I'm already under water ), but it significantly slows down boat b/c both I and AMA do dive. So, after trying various courses I found that best I could do was to run (or very broad reach), compensating waves and wind by sitting on tramp and reefing not to dive.

With better conditions (2-3 ft, 15 kts) it's very different (though still very wet) experience. Thinking about this more I guess 20 kts / 4ft is probably challenging combination of my current skills and boat

For higher wind and wave I'm planning to try:
- my chair is collapsible, so instead of running on tramps (btw, I'm running at about 10-20 degrees, so it probably is or close to broad reach) I'll try to move back as much as I can, while still on a main hull.
- try HAKA - it should be a bit higher off the water, and I can be in a more sitting position

It's a blast on a slower wind and lower waves though! And I think it is great for beginners, to try different conditions and still being able to peddle it if needed