We just took ownership of a 1988 Catalina 36. The previous owner had not done much maintenance since 2017. The prop is in bad shape and needs to be replaced.

We are in the Bay Area and plan on using this boat to learn to sail aboard and do overnighters in the bay and, perhaps, when we get more confident, as far as Monterey or similar distance north.

The prop is currently a Max-Prop 3 Blade Easy - 85mm Hub - 15". Since we are new sailors and new boat owners, would it be better to go down in complexity on this prop?

What would you recommend and why?

I realize this is an open ended question, but would really appreciate any direction. THANKS!