RE: Getting inti sailing, can't decide on a boat.
Sounds like a no loose deal to me! Not sure what your LHS gets for the Vela, but a Tower Hobbies, if you join their Premier member deal, you can get one for about $300 withno shipping cost or sales tax (tax depends on what state you are in)
Just an FYI.
Have fun with your new boat. Hey, any RC boat is better than none!
Boomer