HOBIE 18
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 18 ft |
| Beam | 8 ft |
| Draft | 2.5 ft/ 0.58 ft min |
| Displacement | 400 lb |
About the HOBIE 18
Photo courtesy of Adam Hunt.
The Hobie 18 is a high-performance catamaran designed by Hobie Alter & Phil Edwards and built by Hobie Cat, with production starting in 1976. While the exact total build count is unknown, this model established the modern recreational catamaran market with its lightweight 400.0 lb displacement and 18.0 ft LOA.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideal for day-sailing enthusiasts, beach-launched racers, and coastal cruisers seeking a trailerable, high-performance package with a shallow 2.5 ft max draft.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 400.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 4.35, the Hobie 18 is not designed for offshore bluewater cruising but is suitable for protected coastal waters and short passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other Hobie Cat models like the 16 and 20, as well as early generation performance catamarans from brands like Nacra or Prindle, which share similar fractional sloop rigs and lightweight construction philosophies.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceAsking price by model year
11 listings · boat years 1976–2001 · median $2,000
Each dot is one listing · hover for details · dashed red line marks the median · obvious data-entry outliers (top & bottom 2.5%) excluded.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 18ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
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Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
33 reported issues across 9 systems for the HOBIE 18, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a HOBIE 18? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 33 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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Which engine powers your HOBIE 18?
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Used sails that fit the HOBIE 18
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