True. The MC isn't a relaxing boat. It is a very active, crouching, hiking and holding your tounge right to make the most of the wind. I can't find the impressive picture of the guy water skiing behind it, but the boat can plane and so it can flat scream across the water. The MC (http://www.melges.com/mcscows.html) has a huge following and a very active, nationally recognized fleet here on Spring Lake (http://www.springlakeyachtclub.org ) A great boat for someone who enjoys lots of tweaking for maximum performance and specifically enjoys racing. I personally find that a little tedious... except the screaming across the lake part. I came into the boat for free, so "better than a sharp stick in the eye" applies. For getting out on the water - no complaints, but it just isn't really my cup of tea. Nice thing is that it holds its value and resale is no problemo. Look for it to go away this spring and a Commander getting my name on it.