Happi, I sure wouldn't try to talk you out of a Cypress; I think they are great boats, although my choice would be the infinity. I think that Current Designs makes some of the best boats available--remember, I have one.

Yes, I did demo an NC seventeen footer. I have to confess that there were a couple of things that didn't suit me about the boat. Specifically, the seat position didn't allow me to get in and out of the boat in the fashion I am used to. NC remedied that on my Expedition by moving the seat back a little during construction. All of the NC cockpits are the same, so I think the same can be done on the seventeens and maybe even on the 15'-8" boats.

The other issue I had with the NC seventeen was maneuvering. You must remember that I was used to my Sirocco that will turn on a dime without any effort at all. The NC boats can be managed, but it does take a little more technique. However, what you gain in tracking ability is something that has to be experience to be believed. Combine the super stability and tracking of the NC boats and you have a cruiser that is, in my opion, unbeatable. As I have said before, these boats are not play boats--they are meant for covering a lot of water, efficiently and are extremely seaworthy.

All of that said, I realize that everyone has their preferences in boat design and what attributes are important, so it can be a very tough decision. All I can say is that I am very, very pleased with my NC and if I had it to do all over, I wouldn't change a thing. If I could have only one boat, that might be a horse of a differnt color. I don't even want to think about being restricted to one boat.

I guess if I were you, I would try out as many boats as I could and make my decision on what feels and looks right to you. Still, I would see if Doug, or Greg at NC could put you in touch with someone in Florida who has an NC that you could look at.