I began sailing dinghies at about 20 years old. By now I have owned:
2. OD11s
2. Force 5
1. Laser
1. Capri 13
1. Hobie 18
1. Macgregor 26S
I switched to a big boat after a near catastrophe on the bay with the Force 5.
I went out alone in the bay on a day with really high winds. As long as I went up wind I was OK. Going back downwind I couldnt keep it up. After the 3rd capsize, I didnt have enough energy to right the boat, and I basically just hung on and drifted to shore. It was that day I decided I needed a grown-ups boat. Thus the Mac. It was a good choice for me. Its the largest sloop style boat I think I can trailer with my current vehicle. I can rig it and sail it by myself. It is self righting, and usually a dry ride. I can motor in 1.5 to 2 ft of water and sail in 3 ft.