RE: Cheap boat for beginner?
David,
Looks about average for a 'RTR' sailboat. No idea what the radio system's range is so that could be a potential problem (not saying it would be though!). I can see a few things that might could be done a little 'better', but that's true about almost any boat, so no biggy. At that price, it's probably close to a bargain? It's also a chance for the 'old guy' to try his hand at tinkering too, so that might be a plus. One thing to remember is that any 'Ready To Run' boat is going to be a compromise, never the absolute most 'bestest' you can have, sail, scale, or go-fast.
- 'Doc
PS - Sailing, just like flying is sort of addictive. By the next birthday/Christmas/whatever, you may be in a lot of trouble!