So many variables. If your 17 is deep V and it is 3 ft or less and not building, then it is probably OK. Look at a weather bouy and pay attention to wave intervals. It will tell how many seconds the waves are apart. If it is 3 ft seas and 1 or 2 seconds apart, you will take a beating in any boat. 1 to 3 ft seas is likey 5-15 mph winds. My first boat was 18 ft deep v and did very well in rough conditions. I think you will be fine. Just go easy on the throttle and don't beat yourselves up. Have a good marine radio too. Let us know how it goes.