have any personal experience with cats, tries or multihuls of any type, other than ones we cruised in company with, about 5 total. I am NOT advocating any one give up a boat they have to change to some other type. I believe in the old, "run what ya brung". Or the, "go small, go now".

We each had our share of small gripes about the boats. I do remember being anchored next to a cat one windy night and the water slapping the hull between the hulls so loud it kept us awake. I did not ask how they slept.

I think the SAME argument you point out, "Too bad he didn't read his Simrad manual" could also apply to those who are unable to get the windvane to work. Don't you think so? Also, your statement, "We carry a spare main engine and a spare steering system. Now THAT'S self-sufficiency!" does not take into account the loss of electricity, dos it? I know that is a rare event, but over the years I have talked to 2 owners who had it happen on boats on passage.

I can't speak for other windvanes, but over I could lift my boat by my Monitor, it's that strong. And should something break along the way, it came with a spares kit. And if a tube broke, well, I can splint that. So, no I do not need a welder to fix it along the way. Sort of spit a glue, or duct tape....

I expect we will never come to agreement on this, and that is the GREAT part about cruising on our own boats! We are each a captain and make our own decisions and live by them.

Good luck on your adventures.

Greg