Does it really matter the wind direction? A 3 ft wave is a 3 ft wave regardless of wind direction. Guys that saying they have been in 5 ft waves and bigger in small 17ft or less boats are mistaken, because the waves were not that big. Most people over estimate the size of a wave by about 50%, meaning a 2 ft wave is a 3ft, and 3 ft wave is almost a 5 ft, ect. Your question, "is my boat ok in 3 ft waves." The answer is yes. The real question is do you want to be in 3ft waves in a 17ft boat? the answer is no. You will be soak by spray and feel like you just got the **** kicked out of you. Remember, just because you can do something, doesn't mean you should.