super sunfish sailboat

Boats for Sale

In fort myers, fl 33908, super sunfish, for sale: $1,000.

The Super Sunfish was available from 1974 to 1984. AMF marketed this more conventional sail plan as a performance version of the Sunfish in an attempt to compete with, among others, the newly emerging Laser. Portsmouth handicap numbers, however, place the Laser slightly faster. With its hard chine hull, the Super Sunfish is the more stable boat so it’s a tradeoff between the two designs. Mine is from about 1977. It’s fast and a lot of fun to sail!

Here is a cool video someone else posted about the same rare model of Sunfish. Notice that it can also be rigged with the standard Sunfish lateen rig if you have one.

Laser-like rigging details, two piece mast, main sheet on traveler.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

SUPER SUNFISH Detailed Review

If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of SUPER SUNFISH. Built by Alcort (USA) and designed by undefined, the boat was first built in 1974. It has a hull type of Daggerboard and LOA is 4.22. Its sail area/displacement ratio 40.75. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by undefined, runs on undefined.

SUPER SUNFISH has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about SUPER SUNFISH and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, contributions, who builds super sunfish.

SUPER SUNFISH is built by Alcort (USA).

When was SUPER SUNFISH first built?

SUPER SUNFISH was first built in 1974.

How long is SUPER SUNFISH?

SUPER SUNFISH is 3.96 m in length.

Member Boats at HarborMoor

Your shopping cart is empty!

• The Sunfish is the most popular boat ever produced!
• Great for both casual sailing and racing. Explore lakes, bays, even oceans.
• Compact, lightweight, easy to transport. Ideal for one or two sailors.
• We offer customization options you won't find anywhere else!
• We have a large selection of boats, sails and parts in stock and ready to ship.

Configure your boat!

2023 Sunfish World Championship Event Boat

Here's your chance to own a 2023 ISCA World Championship event Sunfish!Boats will be delivered to Fl..

Sunfish, 2023 Sunfish World Championship Sail (NEW without sail numbers), North Sails

Own a special edition 2023 Sunfish World Championship sail.  This is a brand NEW sail.  Sa..

Sunfish, 2023 Sunfish World Championship Sail (Used), North Sails

Own a special edition 2023 Sunfish World Championship sail. This sail will be used for 5 days during..

Nautalytics, Sunfish Compass, SQ1813227

Magnetic compass with wireless solar charging. Features: Countdown Timer Large Battery Backlight..

AeroSouth, FS Wood Rigged Rudder, Sunfish, FS-RDD-BLD-FOR-RIG

Improve the speed and handling of your Sunfish Sailboat with the fully rigged FS Rudder Blade. Made ..

AeroSouth, Sabre Daggerboard, Sunfish, SBR-DGG-FOR-SNF

Improve the speed and handling of your Sunfish Sailboat with a Sabre Daggerboard. Made of laminated ..

AeroSouth, Sunfish Dinghy Bob, DNG-BOB

Dinghy Bob prevents your small sailboat from turning-turtle and getting its mast or spar stuck in th..

AeroSouth, Sunfish Mainsheet Hanger Clip (Set of 3, Blue), SNF-MNS-HNG-CLP-B

Set of three Sunfish mainsheet hanger clips. Made of durable PETG plastic. Fitted for the 1.5" diam..

The Sunfish combines easy rigging and manageability for a comfortable and hassle-free sailing experience. This is the sailboat loved by all. Designed in 1952 as the ultimate beach craft, the Sunfish sailboat is still a favourite with all ages. This maintenance free boat holds its resale value thanks to its robust construction, highlighted by hard chines and a flat underbody. The Sunfish can be stored almost anywhere and is a snap to car-top, making it a popular international class and easy to transport to your favourite beach for family fun.

The Sunfish has its roots planted firmly in 1947 in Waterbury, Connecticut. Friends Alexander “Al” Bryan and Cortlandt “Cort” Heyniger (the Al and Cort in Alcort) pondered, “How to put a sail on a surfboard?” The answer involved a rejected design for American Red Cross waterfront rescue surfboards, leading to the Sailfish – a lateen rigged, flat-decked, plywood marvel. In 1951, Bryan’s pregnant wife found its flat deck somewhat uncomfortable. The addition of a cockpit and widening of the hull created the Sunfish. The logo was created by Heyniger, who traced a nickel and added fins, the tail and an eye. Early wood Sailfish and Sunfish were available assembled or as kits. In 1959 the introduction of fiberglass and the low cost and ease of production led to the proliferation of Sunfish everywhere. Other improvements included aluminium spars replacing spruce, Dacron sails replacing cotton, ash replacing mahogany for tillers, resulting in increased speed, performance and reliability. Sunfish racing started almost as quickly as two or three boats came together – the first North American Championship was 1963, the first Midwinters was 1965.

1 Hull – 2 Versions

Race – A strict one design international sail class

• Adjustable downhaul
• Adjustable outhaul
• Performance ratchet block
• Performance sailcloth

Recreational – For the ones exclusively looking for the pleasure of sailing a extremely simple and fun dinghy

• Colourful sails
• Even more simple to rig
• Reduced time to water
• Sailing made simple

The Sunfish is a sailing icon

One of sailing’s best-known brands, it is unmatched in simplicity and performance making it popular for all ages and abilities. With more than 60 years in production and sailed by celebrities such as the Kennedy and Paul McCartney, the Sunfish is the most popular sailboat in history.

• SUNFISH RACE

60 ft 2 5.58 m 2

13.9 FT 4.24M

4.1 FT 1.25 M

2.11 FT 0.64 M

Beginner->Expert

Club->International

BOAT LIGHTNESS

TIME TO WATER

SKILL LEVEL

PARTS LOCATOR

RIGGING MANUAL

• Parts & Accessories

Privacy Overview

Learn How To Sail A Sunfish Like a Pro: Essential Tips and Techniques

Alex Morgan

Sailing a Sunfish sailboat can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience for water enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sailor, mastering the art of sailing a Sunfish requires knowledge, practice, and a little bit of adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the essential steps and techniques involved in sailing a Sunfish.

The Sunfish sailboat is a popular recreational single-handed dinghy known for its simplicity, maneuverability, and versatility. Before getting on the water, it is crucial to understand the key features of the Sunfish sailboat, such as its design, hull construction, and rigging components.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience, proper preparation is essential. This includes checking the equipment and safety gear to ensure they are in good condition and preparing the Sunfish sailboat by inspecting the hull, mast, sail, and rudder.

Mastering the basic sailing techniques is the foundation of sailing a Sunfish. This involves rigging the sailboat, understanding wind direction, adjusting sail trim, and effectively steering and controlling the rudder.

For those looking to take their sailing skills to the next level, advanced techniques such as sail positioning and shaping, tacking and jibing, and harnessing the power of the wind will be explored. These skills allow for greater control, speed, and maneuverability while sailing.

Safety should always be a top priority when sailing. We will provide important safety tips and precautions to ensure your well-being on the water, including proper use of personal flotation devices and understanding weather conditions.

We will discuss common mistakes to avoid while sailing a Sunfish, such as improper weight distribution, overestimating wind conditions, and neglecting maintenance and equipment checks.

By following this comprehensive guide, both novice and experienced sailors can enhance their Sunfish sailing skills, gain confidence on the water, and enjoy the thrill of sailing a Sunfish to the fullest. So, get ready to set sail and embark on an exciting journey with your Sunfish sailboat.

Key takeaway:

• Understanding the Sunfish Sailboat: Familiarize yourself with the key features of a Sunfish sailboat to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.
• Master the basics: Learn how to properly rig the Sunfish sailboat, understand wind direction and sail trim, and control the rudder for basic sailing techniques.
• Advance your skills: Explore sail positioning and shaping, practice tacking and jibing, and harness the power of the wind to enhance your sailing abilities.

Understanding the Sunfish Sailboat

Get ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of sunfish sailboats ! In this section, we’ll dive deep into understanding the ins and outs of these magnificent vessels. From exploring the key features that make the sunfish sailboat a true marvel, to discovering the secrets of its exceptional performance, we’ll uncover everything you need to know to become a knowledgeable sailor. So buckle up and get ready to set sail with us!

Key Features of a Sunfish Sailboat

The hull of a Sunfish sailboat is fiberglass, making it lightweight and easy to maneuver. It has a triangular lateen sail that can be easily raised and lowered. The mast is aluminum, providing durability and stability. A daggerboard is used for lateral resistance and can be easily raised or lowered to adjust direction. The cockpit is spacious enough for one or two people to sit or move around comfortably. It has a simple rigging system, allowing for quick and easy setup and takedown. The Sunfish sailboat has a self-bailing cockpit, meaning water automatically drains out for enhanced safety. It has a kick-up rudder, which can be lifted out of the water to avoid obstacles or shallow areas. Known for stability and ease of handling, the Sunfish sailboat is suitable for beginners and experienced sailors. It can be easily transported on top of a car or trailer, making it convenient for sailing in different locations.

The Sunfish sailboat was introduced in 1952 by Alex Bryan and Cortlandt Heyniger . They aimed to create a small, affordable, and versatile sailboat for recreational sailing. The design quickly gained popularity, and millions have been sold worldwide since then. Its accessibility, simplicity, and reliability have made it a favorite choice for beginners and seasoned sailors. Over the years, the Sunfish sailboat has undergone minor design modifications but has remained true to its principles of stability, easy handling, and fun on the water. Today, it continues to be a beloved sailboat for individuals and families looking to enjoy the thrill of sailing in a compact and budget-friendly vessel.

Preparing for Sailing

Want to set sail on a Sunfish ? In this section, we’ll cover all the essential steps to get you ready for a smooth sailing experience. From checking your equipment and safety gear to preparing the Sunfish sailboat , we’ve got you covered. So, grab your sunscreen and let’s dive into the preparations that will ensure a fantastic time out on the water!

Checking Equipment and Safety Gear

Checking Equipment and Safety Gear is essential before setting sail on a Sunfish sailboat. Here is a comprehensive list of steps to follow:

1. Inspect life jackets: Ensure enough life jackets onboard for each person in good condition with no tears or damages.

2. Check safety lines: Verify securely attached and in good working condition.

3. Examine anchor and rope: Make sure anchor securely fastened and rope in good condition, free from fraying or knots.

4. Test horn or whistle: Ensure functioning properly and can produce a loud sound to signal for help if needed.

5. Inspect first aid kit: Check fully stocked with essential items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

6. Verify presence of fire extinguisher: Confirm readily available on the boat and within expiry date.

7. Check communication devices: Test VHF radio or other communication devices onboard to ensure proper working order.

8. Ensure navigation lights are functional: Confirm working correctly, especially if planning to sail at night.

9. Check for any leaks: Inspect boat’s hull for any leaks or damages that could affect buoyancy.

10. Examine rigging and sails: Inspect for signs of wear, tear, or damage. Replace or repair as necessary.

True story: Once, while preparing to sail on a Sunfish, a sailor discovered a tear in their life jacket during the equipment check. Thanks to their thorough inspection, they promptly replaced the damaged life jacket and ensured everyone’s safety on the water. Remember, checking equipment and safety gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

Preparing the Sunfish Sailboat

To prepare the Sunfish sailboat, follow these steps:

1. Inspect the hull for damage or cracks. Repair or replace damaged parts.

2. Check the mast and boom for wear or damage. Ensure they are securely attached.

3. Attach the main sail to the halyard and raise it up the mast. Properly tension the sail.

4. Attach the boom to the mast and secure the mainsail to the boom using sail ties.

5. Check the daggerboard and rudder to ensure they are securely in place.

6. Attach the rudder to the stern of the boat and ensure it moves freely.

7. Inspect the lines and rigging to ensure they are in good condition and properly rigged.

8. Check the bailer and mast flotation to ensure they are functioning properly.

9. Attach any necessary safety equipment, such as a life jacket or whistle.

10. Double-check that all equipment is secure and properly fastened.

The Sunfish sailboat , known for its simplicity, affordability, and ease of use, can be prepared by following these steps. It was designed by Alcort, Inc. in the United States during the early 1950s and has gained popularity ever since. The design of the Sunfish sailboat has remained largely unchanged, with minor modifications made for better performance. It is a popular choice among sailors of all skill levels due to its lightweight design and stable hull, which make it suitable for racing, recreational sailing, and teaching sailing techniques. With its timeless design and versatility on the water, the Sunfish is a beloved classic in the world of sailboats.

Basic Sailing Techniques

Mastering the art of sailing a Sunfish requires a deep understanding of basic sailing techniques. From rigging the Sunfish sailboat to navigating wind direction and sail trim, and even mastering the art of steering and controlling the rudder , each sub-section in this voyage of discovery will unlock the essential skills needed to glide smoothly across the water. So grab your lifejacket and let’s embark on this thrilling adventure of Sunfish sailing mastery .

Rigging the Sunfish Sailboat

Rigging the Sunfish Sailboat is necessary before sailing. Follow these steps:

• Attach the mast to the mast step at the front of the Sunfish sailboat.
• Secure the sail to the halyard and hoist it up the mast, ensuring proper attachment.
• Connect the boom to the gooseneck at the bottom of the mast.
• Attach the mainsheet to the rear of the boom and thread it through the blocks on the Sunfish.
• Connect the mainsheet to the traveler, a sliding bar at the back of the boat.
• Attach the rudder to the back of the Sunfish, making sure it is securely in place.
• Check all the lines and rigging to ensure proper tightening and securing.

Once the Sunfish sailboat is rigged, you can start your sailing adventure. Always double-check your rigging before going on the water and familiarize yourself with the boat’s operation. Remember that weather conditions can impact sailing, so adjust the sail trim accordingly. Happy sailing!

Understanding Wind Direction and Sail Trim

Understanding wind direction and sail trim is crucial for successful sailing of a Sunfish sailboat. Adjusting the sail trim based on wind direction is key to optimizing the boat’s performance.

To determine wind direction, look for visual cues such as flags, water ripples, or movement of tree branches. It’s important to remember that wind can change direction, so regularly assess its angle relative to your boat.

Once wind direction is identified, adjust the sail trim accordingly. For effective upwind sailing, tightly trim the sail to catch more wind, creating lift and propelling the boat forward. Conversely, when sailing downwind, ease the sail to maximize the catching area and take advantage of the force of the wind pushing from behind.

Sail trim requires continuous monitoring and adjustment as the wind changes. Experimenting with different trim settings will help you find the optimal balance between speed and control .

Understanding wind direction and sail trim improves with practice and experience. Sailing and observing wind behavior will enhance your ability to instinctively trim the sail and enjoy a smooth and exhilarating sailing experience.

Steering and Controlling the Rudder

• 1. Check rudder position: Before steering the Sunfish sailboat, ensure that the rudder is centered, aligned with the boat’s keel, and straight.
• 2. Hold tiller extension: Firmly grasp the tiller extension, a long handle connected to the rudder. Maintain a comfortable grip while allowing for movement and flexibility.
• 3. Understand tiller and rudder relationship: The tiller is connected to the rudder, and any tiller movement directly affects the rudder’s position. Moving the tiller to the right turns the rudder right, and moving the tiller to the left turns the rudder left.
• 4. Adjust rudder angle: To steer the Sunfish sailboat, adjust the rudder angle. Push the tiller extension to the left to turn right, and push it to the right to turn left.
• 5. Maintain balance and stability: When steering and controlling the rudder, maintain balance and stability on the sailboat. Distribute weight evenly, stay centered in the boat, and make subtle adjustments for control.

Practice steering and controlling the rudder in different weather conditions and sailboat speeds to enhance proficiency. Through practice, you will develop a better understanding of effectively maneuvering the Sunfish sailboat.

Advanced Sailing Skills

Mastering the art of sailing a Sunfish requires more than just the basics. In this section, we’ll dive into advanced sailing skills that will take your Sunfish adventures to the next level. Discover the secrets of effective sail positioning and shaping , the art of tacking and jibing with finesse, and how to truly harness the power of the wind . Get ready to elevate your sailing game and navigate the waters with confidence.

Sail Positioning and Shaping

When sailing a Sunfish, proper sail positioning and shaping are key to efficient sailing. Consider the following factors:

– Wind direction: Position the sail perpendicular to the wind for maximum power.

– Sail shape: Adjust the sail’s shape using the cunningham, outhaul, and boomvang control lines.

– Cunningham: Tighten the cunningham to flatten the sail and reduce draft, especially in strong winds or for better upwind performance.

– Outhaul: Adjust the outhaul to control tension on the foot of the sail. Tightening it flattens the sail for increased speed and control in stronger winds.

– Boomvang: Properly adjust the boomvang to control tension on the leech of the sail and achieve optimal sail shape and control.

– Weight distribution: Positioning your body weight correctly on the boat is crucial for stability and performance. Adjust your position to maintain control and balance.

– Foot position: Properly position your feet on the hiking straps to balance and stabilize the boat. This allows for necessary sail adjustments and effective boat control.

– Continuously observe the sail and make necessary adjustments to adapt to changing wind conditions and optimize performance.

Mastering sail positioning and shaping in Sunfish sailing can greatly enhance your sailing experience and improve overall performance on the water.

Tacking and Jibing

– Prepare the Sunfish sailboat for tacking or jibing by trimming the sail and maintaining a steady speed. Begin the maneuver by turning the bow of the boat into the wind and crossing to the other side. Release the sail as the boat turns to make the turn smoother. Change sides on the boat to balance the weight and aid in the turn. Quickly switch the sail to the new side as the boat completes the turn and the wind fills the sail. Pull in the sail and adjust the trim for the desired speed and direction.

For jibing , turn the stern of the boat through the wind to change the direction. Prepare to release the sail as the boat turns and let it swing across. Cross over to the opposite side of the boat for balance during the turn. Guide the sail smoothly to the new side and adjust the trim accordingly. Continuously monitor the wind and make minor adjustments to maintain control and maximize efficiency.

Harnessing the Power of the Wind

Harnessing the Power of the Wind is crucial for successful Sunfish sailing. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Positioning the sail: Properly position the sail to catch the wind and propel the boat forward. Adjust the sail based on the wind direction and intensity.

2. Sail trim: Maintain proper sail trim to optimize wind capture. Adjust the sheet to keep it taut but not too tight. Watch for signs of luffing or flapping, which indicate insufficient use of wind power.

3. Using the telltales: Utilize the telltales on the sail to determine wind flow across its surface. The position and direction of the telltales help gauge proper sail trim. Adjust the sail to maximize wind efficiency.

4. Feathering: Reduce wind resistance and maintain forward momentum in strong winds by angling the sail away from the wind. This technique prevents excessive heeling and maintains control over the boat.

5. Understanding gusts and lulls: Be aware of changes in wind intensity. In gusts, loosen the sail to prevent overpowering. In lulls, adjust the sail to catch any available wind. Adapting to changing wind conditions improves overall sailing performance.

By implementing these techniques, you can effectively harness the power of the wind during your Sunfish sailing adventures. Practice and experience will improve your understanding of wind dynamics and enhance your sailing skills. Enjoy the exhilaration of harnessing nature’s force and explore the open water with confidence.

Safety Tips and Precautions

• Always prioritize safety when sailing a Sunfish by following these safety tips and precautions.
• Check the weather forecast before setting sail to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Before launching your Sunfish, inspect it for damages or leaks to prevent any potential accidents.
• To stay within the rules and regulations , familiarize yourself with the sailing rules of your location.
• Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye out for other boats or obstacles in the water to maintain a safe voyage.
• Keep a whistle or horn on board so you can easily signal for help in case of emergencies.
• Stay hydrated during your sailing trip by bringing enough water for your journey.
• Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen and a hat.

Always prioritize safety when sailing a Sunfish and follow these precautions for a pleasant and secure sailing experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not wearing a life jacket: Avoid not wearing a life jacket while sailing a Sunfish. Prioritize safety on the water and always wear a properly fitted life jacket to prevent accidents or drowning.
• Ignoring weather conditions: Avoid ignoring weather conditions. Check the weather forecast before sailing. Strong winds, storms, or other adverse conditions can make sailing difficult and dangerous.
• Overlooking proper rigging: Properly rigging the Sunfish is essential for a successful sail. Don’t overlook the rigging process. Ensure the mast, boom, and sail are correctly attached and tensioned for optimal sailing.
• Not understanding the centerboard: The centerboard plays a crucial role in maneuvering the Sunfish. Understand how to use it correctly for control and stability. Learn how to adjust it based on wind and water conditions.
• Forgetting to secure the mainsheet: The mainsheet controls the sail’s position and power. Avoid forgetting to secure it properly to prevent accidental jibes and loss of control.

Some Facts About How To Sail A Sunfish:

• ✅ The Sunfish is a small, one-person sailboat that has been popular for generations. (Source: Our Team)
• ✅ It is a personal-size, beach-launched sailing dinghy with a flat hull and a crab claw sail. (Source: Our Team)
• ✅ The Sunfish was developed by Alcort, Inc. in the 1950s and has since become the most popular fiberglass boat ever designed, with a quarter million sold worldwide. (Source: Our Team)
• ✅ Setting up a Sunfish takes less than 10 minutes and requires no special knowledge or fancy sailor’s knots. (Source: Our Team)
• ✅ There are resources available, such as YouTube videos and sailing classes, to help beginners learn to sail a Sunfish. (Source: Our Team)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how long does it take to set up a sunfish sailboat.

Setting up a Sunfish takes less than 10 minutes and requires no special knowledge or fancy sailor’s knots.

2. Can a Sunfish sailboat be launched from anywhere?

Yes, a Sunfish sailboat can be launched from the beach, dock, or anywhere with water access.

3. Are there resources available to help beginners learn to sail a Sunfish?

Yes, there are resources available such as YouTube videos and sailing classes that can help beginners learn to sail a Sunfish.

4. What is the sail plan and hull of a sailboat?

The sail plan and hull of a sailboat create lift forces in 3 dimensions as they react to wind and water.

5. How can I achieve balance and control while sailing a Sunfish?

Balancing the forces of the sail and hull is key to maintaining control and speed. Experimentation and practice are necessary to find the best settings and achieve comfort and control while sailing.

6. What are some tips for adjusting the sail’s center of effort and improving control?

Lowering the sail on the mast can help reduce heeling and allow for better control through hiking. Adjusting the gooseneck on the boom can reduce weather helm and improve control. Other controls like the vang, outhaul, and cunningham can further tweak the sail’s center of effort and de-power the sail.

About the author

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest posts

The history of sailing – from ancient times to modern adventures

History of Sailing Sailing is a time-honored tradition that has evolved over millennia, from its humble beginnings as a means of transportation to a beloved modern-day recreational activity. The history of sailing is a fascinating journey that spans cultures and centuries, rich in innovation and adventure. In this article, we’ll explore the remarkable evolution of…

Sailing Solo: Adventures and Challenges of Single-Handed Sailing

Solo Sailing Sailing has always been a pursuit of freedom, adventure, and self-discovery. While sailing with a crew is a fantastic experience, there’s a unique allure to sailing solo – just you, the wind, and the open sea. Single-handed sailing, as it’s often called, is a journey of self-reliance, resilience, and the ultimate test of…

Sustainable Sailing: Eco-Friendly Practices on the boat

Eco Friendly Sailing Sailing is an exhilarating and timeless way to explore the beauty of the open water, but it’s important to remember that our oceans and environment need our protection. Sustainable sailing, which involves eco-friendly practices and mindful decision-making, allows sailors to enjoy their adventures while minimizing their impact on the environment. In this…

Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session. Sign in to save them permanently, access them on any device, and receive relevant alerts.

• Sailboat Guide

Sunfish is a 13 ′ 10 ″ / 4.2 m monohull sailboat designed by Alexander Bryan/Cortland Heyniger/Carl Meinart and built by AMF Corp., Alcort, Pearson Yachts, and LaserPerformance starting in 1952.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Although the earliest models were built of wood and offered as kits, the fiberglass version, first introduced in 1960, became the most popular recreational sailboat in history. As a result, there were many imitators.

Sunfish Builder Chronology 1952 - 1969 Alcort, Inc. (founded 1945) 1969 - 1986 AMF 1986 - 1988 Loveless & DeGarmo, dba, Alcort Sailboats Inc. 1988 - 1991 Pearson Yacht Co. 1991 - 1997 Sunfish/Laser, Inc. 1997 - 2007 Vanguard 2007 - Laser Performance Change in class rules permitted a new, slightly deeper daggerboard in the mid-1990’s.

Embed this page on your own website by copying and pasting this code.

• About Sailboat Guide

©2024 Sea Time Tech, LLC

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Boat Profile

Super Sailfish

A wild and wet ride

From Issue   August 2019

S eventy years ago, LIFE put the Alcort company on the map when the magazine featured the Sailfish sailboat in an article titled “ World’s Wettest, Sportiest Boat ,” published in the August 15, 1949 issue. Two years earlier, Alcort had expanded their market from iceboats to the little Sailfish, a lateen-rigged wooden hull that measured just under 12′. The boat was easy to handle, affordable, and offered a sporty, splashy ride to America’s post-war market of recreational sailors.

In 1946, Alex Bryan and Cortlandt Heyniger had combined bits of their first names to create Alcort, Inc., and the first sailboat that they designed, in 1947, was the 11′ 7″ Sailfish, built in Waterbury, Connecticut. The Sailfish had a beam of 31-1/2″, a crew capacity of 300 lbs, and weighed 82 lbs. The volume of air enclosed by the hull and deck made the boat virtually unsinkable. A 65-square-foot lateen sail provided ample power.

The authors’ Super Sailfish, ZSA ZSA, is their restoration of a wooden boat built in the 1950s. Here, the varnished daggerboard rests just aft of its slot.

The boat gained immediate popularity after the LIFE article, and within a few years the original design was lengthened to 13′ 7″ and widened a bit to 35-1/2″. The larger Sailfish flew a 75-square-foot sail, weighed 102 lbs, and had a crew capacity of 400 lbs. The original Sailfish was then labeled the Standard Sailfish and the big sister named the Super Sailfish. Production of the two models of Sailfish was brisk, and in 1960 Alcort added a fiberglass version, the Super Sailfish MK II. The MK II hull was the same size as the Super Sailfish, had the same capacity of 400 lbs, and used the same rig, but weighed 98 lbs. Alcort was also producing the wooden Sunfish, which used the same sail rig, daggerboard, and rudder as the Super Sailfish line, and a fiberglass Sunfish with a longer daggerboard and taller transom.

The Alcort literature promised the Sailfish would deliver “thrilling speed, brilliant performance, perfect portability, and swamp-proof safety.” The hull, deck, and frames were made of marine plywood, with mahogany sides, transom, rudder, tiller, and daggerboard. Wilcox and Crittenden in nearby Middletown manufactured the bronze and brass fittings for all of the Alcort boats. The spars on the original Sailfish were cut from Sitka spruce, mid-generation masts were a hybrid aluminum base with wooden top, and spars from the late 1950s on were aluminum.

Alcort offered the Standard Sailfish, Super Sailfish, and Super Sailfish MK II as factory-built boats, and they sold precision-cut knockdown kits for a wooden Sailfish through the late ’50s through the mid-’60s. The Standard Sailfish was phased out in the mid-’60s and the Super Sailfish kit was last seen in the late ’60s. Along the way, a two-page set of plans was produced by Alcort with measurements and a materials list for the frames, hull, rudder, daggerboard, spars, and sail. Armed with the plans, an intrepid home builder could build the boat with locally sourced lumber and hardware. We had occasion recently to replace the bottom panels on a factory-built Super Sailfish, and while we had the panels off we validated the measurements in the plans, and all were within a 1/32″ with only one exception. The factory boat’s bow was swept up just under 1″, a design improvement that helped reduce submarining.

The handrails amidships have an important role as foot bracing to keep the sailor from sliding off the deck when the boat heels.

T he Sailfish kits came with all of the wood, hardware, sails, and line needed. Finishing kits with primer, putty, paint, and varnish could be purchased as well. Alcort provided eight pages of well-written instructions with 16 photos. The first two pages of the instructions contained a list of parts included in the kit with numbered photos. The hull was assembled upside down using the shipping crate as a strongback. The first step was to attach the 13′ 3-3/4″ deck longeron to the stem, the seven frames, maststep, daggerboard trunk, and transom. The parts were coated with a sealer, and then screwed together, and the deck was then temporarily attached to the skeleton frame and the solid-wood sides were screwed on, attached first to the stem and pulled into place on the transom with a rope windlass. The inner keel longeron was attached to the frames, and it and the sides were beveled to accept the plywood bottom panels. They were attached with glue and bronze ring-shank nails.

The assembly process was easy. Alcort advertised that it could be done over a weekend with a hammer, rasp, plane, screwdriver, handsaw, square, brace, drill, and bits. A jigsaw would be helpful for building a hull from plans.

The Sailfish delivers on Alcort’s promise of fun. We have sailed all of the models and have only capsized once when a sail caught a puff and the sheet pulled Skipper off the deck. The sheet had no fairlead or cleat, so it was either let go of the sheet or go for a short swim. One sailor joked that “the Sailfish was the boat that you learned to swim on.” The shallow-V hulls of the Super Sailfish and especially the Standard Sailfish with its 31-1/2″ beam, require more balance than the Sunfish. When sailing Sailfish, we tend to sit more amidships and hike out by laying backward at an angle, rather than perpendicular to the centerline. Handrails on the deck serve as foot braces to help maintain control of the boat while hands are busy with the sheet and tiller. Some of the models had a small toerail, which is also helpful for maintaining a grip on the flat, cockpitless deck. The sheet also works as a tether to help keep skippers aboard. Some of the Sailfish had nonskid on the deck, but it quickly wore out pants bottoms. One trick that we’ve come up for tacking is to lean backward instead of forward—while you’re wearing a PFD it is harder to bend forward on a Sailfish than on a Sunfish, which has a cockpit to tuck your legs and feet into.

The most recent versions of the spars and mast for the Sailfish were all aluminum.

The Sailfish 65-square-foot sail for the Standard and 75 for the Super are appropriately sized, neither too small to provide fun, even exciting sailing, nor so large as to be overpowering and leading to frequent capsizes. All of the models power up quickly. We’ve found that tacking is improved with a longer daggerboard, similar to the one found on the 1960s fiberglass Sunfish. The mast is easy to step and even kids as young as eight can raise the sail. Our Sailfish moves well even in the lightest of breeze; we enjoy the fingertip control on the tiller and setting coffee cups set on deck, without them sliding over the side. Once the breeze picks up to 5–8 knots, a little more activity is needed to balance the boat and get through tacks smoothly. At 10–12 knots we are moving quickly to stay on course and work the puffs, and above 12 knots we have sailed the Super Sailfish with two on board, one at the tiller and the other serving as movable ballast.

With the sailing rig left ashore, or even stowed on deck, the Super Sunfish serves nicely as a stand-up paddle board.

A lcort made a lot of promises with the Sailfish and delivered on all of them. We’ve even come up with a few more uses for the boats. The Sailfish, with its deck unbroken by a cockpit, makes a respectable stand-up paddleboard, and with a 400-lb capacity, it is well suited for larger paddlers or for an adult taking little crew members out paddling. The deeper hull design has a greater capacity than a normal paddleboard and makes for a very stable platform. The small keel strip helps the boat track straight under paddle power. We can paddle our MK II out in flat calm, and set sail if the wind picks up. I took the hull out once with a low-slung beach chair lashed to the handrails, and it made a fine sit-on-top kayak, a very useful fishing platform or picnic boat. We have also seen folks add outriggers and take their pets out for a ride with plenty of room for the whole pack.

Kent and Audrey Lewis blog about and maintain a fleet of vintage Alcorts that include a Standard Sailfish , Super Sailfish , Catfish and a wooden Sunfish, along with several fiberglass Sunfish. They also maintain the Yahoo group Sunfish Sailor and publish The Sunfish Owners Manual .

Sailfish Particulars

Length/11′ 7″

Weight/82 lbs

Capacity/300 lbs

Sail Area/65 sq. ft.

Super Sailfish Particulars

Length/ 13′ 7″

Weight/102 lbs

Capacity/400 lbs

Sail Area/75 sq. ft.

Super Sailfish with offsets

Super Sailfish parts

The kit assembly instructions can be found in the Files section of the Sunfish Sailor Yahoo group (after joining the group) and are very helpful when repairing wooden Sailfish, or for building a new Sailfish from the plans, found in the same Files. Sunfish sails and spars to fit the Super Sailfish can be ordered from Sunfish Direct . The Sunfish is manufactured in fiberglass by Laser Performance .

Is there a boat you’d like to know more about? Have you built one that you think other Small Boats Magazine readers would enjoy? Please email us!

Share this article

Join The Conversation

We welcome your comments about this article. If you’d like to include a photo or a video with your comment, please email the file or link.

Comments (15)

Let’s build one FOUR times original size! What a hoot! May have to reduce sail area proportionally….just imagine the fun! Or take one to J boat size! Wow!

Great article. Love the video to see how it sailed. But most of all, really enjoyed reading the history behind the ubiquitous Sunfish, which I have sailed often over the years. The wooden Sailfish versions were before my time. Thank you.

We have a mini sunfish that we bought used in the 1980’s. It is a sturdy craft, and we have sailed it a lot over the years down here in the Florida Panhandle. I repainted it with Interlux fifteen years ago, and it still looks good. It seems to be indestructible. I am thinking of making a longer dagger board for her, after reading the excellent article in Small Boats . Anybody know where I can get a new handle?

It’s interesting how things come around.

Al and Cort first built the Sailfish as a paddleboard to go after swimmers as they were trying for a Red Cross contract. An enlarged surfboard if you will. Too expensive for the Red Cross. So what to do with it. Besides iceboats, Al and Cort were open canoe sailors, and presumably had some kit kicking around. Doesn’t take much to put the two together. The LIFE article came about by some kind of friend-of-a-friend-girlfriend relationship. Don’t remember the details. In today’s saturated world it is difficult to think of a media splash that would have the same impact as a multiple page spread in LIFE . Not so incidentally Al and Cort created the first fully self-rescuable sailing craft.

The Sunfish apparently happened when either Al’s or Cort’s wife became pregnant and found the Sailfish hard to sail.

And it is interesting to see that the Sailfish does work pretty well as a paddleboard!

I got mine as a 13th-birthday present from my grandmother, back in 1967, and sailed her on Cranberry Lake in NW New Jersey. My evil trick was to grab a gust, haul in, then climb over the side to stand on the daggerboard, dumping my crew in the middle of the lake. I could right her and be off again before they knew what was happening.

Nice useful information here. I just purchased an early ’70s MK II. Ready to start cleaning it up. Question: there is a small (3/8″ – 1/2″) hole located next to the bow handle on the deck. Any idea what it’s for? A drain of some type maybe? Any help would be appreciated.

The Alcort Sailfish and Sunfish featured in your current issue are wonderful boats! The underlying philosophy of fun, simplicity and low cost, coupled with ease of transport and storage, would have given access to sailing to many, many people who otherwise would never have had an experience of the sport.

The Australian Sailfish very quickly became popular at clubs on Port Phillip, and then spread rapidly through the eastern states of Australia and onto Papua New Guinea. An Australian Sailfish Class Owners Association was formed in 1961. National championships commenced in 1968 and were held annually thereafter.

Pleasingly however, there has been a wooden-boat renaissance in Australia over the past decade or so, and this has lead to a revival also of the Australian Sailfish. There have been fleets of ten to twenty Sailfish participating at wooden-boat regattas over the past few Australian summers. There have been new builds, plans have been distributed worldwide, and there have been three Australian Sailfish built in the past year in the USA in Florida, Wisconsin, and San Francisco. This revival has been promoted and reflected by an Australian Sailfish website, of which I am a co-administrator. Jack Carroll remains well and active at 90 years of age, and was in fact awarded with an Order of Australia in June this year for services to sailing.

In June this year, I was fortunate to attend the WoodenBoat Show at Mystic Seaport, something I’ve wanted to do for many years. While there, I visited the museum’s small-boat collection. I was on a mission. Just inside the entrance was the Alcort Sunfish, racked up with its stablemate, the Laser. I went exploring further, and, to my delight, I found the Alcort Sailfish tucked away in a back corner of the collection. It was a thrill.

Several days later, by chance, I was able to hire a Sunfish on the beach at Chatham on Cape Cod, and sail it on the waters of Nantucket Sound. That was a great thrill!

I hope that this information might be of some interest to you. Thank you for your wonderful magazine.

Would anyone like to buy an early model of the Super Sailfish that is in great shape?

In the late ’50s and early ’60s we would sail with a neighbor on his Sunfish in Lake Michigan. Usually, sailing was a lot of fun, except for the day when small-craft warnings were posted, and we capsized, breaking the aluminum mast against the sand.

Great article.

I had a Sailfish and sailed Lake Ontario and some northern Ontario lakes with it from 1975 to 1991. It was faster and more athletic to sail than the Sunfish that we also had. I wish they were still available.

We rented a Sunfish 1966 and sailed it on Lake Simcoe near Big Bay Point. I convinced our family to buy one the next year. Sailed it at our rented cottage on Lake Simcoe and Lake Ontario from the Silver Birch Boathouse in east-end Toronto beaches for the next 9 years. Then was invited to race International 14 and Thunderbird yachts because of my Sunfish experience. Now I’m back in Sunfish racing in Canandaigua Lake and Rochester. Love going out in my Sunfish when the wind is too much for other boats.

A couple of answers.

1. For a replacement Minifish daggerboard I’d watch eBay for a “Barrington” board. If the desire is to make new handles, cut some 3/4″-square cleats and screw them to the top of the new, longer daggerboard.

2. The hole up by the bow handle was for a drain plug.

My first boat was a Masonite Sailfish (1974). The drain plug was in the transom, and it had wooden spars, grab rails, mast step, etc., and an old cotton sail. I varnished all the wood, and painted her international orange with a white cockpit – don’t laugh, it looked great with the varnished accents! The first time I capsized her, I was petrified, but then my feet hit the bottom! Shallow water! One time she just refused to tack, and when I got her home, found out that the stern drain plug had not been screwed in, and she weighed about 500 pounds. Many other newbie stories with that boat. Great fun always.

If you guys wanted to go back in time, my grandfather co-invented the Sunfish. Here is a poem I wrote about it:

A Maple leaf floated on the lake Momentum pushed it into a breeze Cortlandt watched it slowly drift by, tacking south The wheels in his head started turning Shorter, he thought, if the boat is shorter, it will turn more sharply It will be an easier boat for play In time, it was, and they were sold worldwide But for now, Bud tried to manipulate a sheet of paper into an airplane He wanted to see if he could hit the leaf Nailed it

Murray Dunlap “Next to a brain injury, the devil is a clawless kitten.”

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Stay On Course

More From This Issue

From The Editor

Anchored in Jeopardy

I’ve had only four anchorages go wrong (so far). In the middle of a night aboard my dory skiff, I had to sit up in my sleeping bag and row…

Oxford Wherry

Despite the author's budding workmanship and a few errors, he finished the project with a beautiful, shapely hull sitting in his garage. He says the building process was very satisfying…

In 1946, Alex Bryan and Cortlandt Heyniger had combined bits of their first names to create Alcort, Inc., and the first sailboat that they designed, in 1947, was the 11’7”…

An Uphill Battle

I had first paddled the trail five years previously, a solo trek of over 750 miles in twenty-eight days, in a 14-foot cedar-strip canoe that I designed and built. To…

Anchors Astray

should have known better. The slough where I dropped anchor for the night was among the many tidal backwaters of the Snohomish River near Everett, Washington. The sloughs were littered...

Product Reviews

Pedal and Paddle Switches

I often have an awkward and anxious moment when I’ve finished a cut on my table saw or bandsaw and have to reach down to turn the machine off while…

Image-Stabilized Binoculars

The Canon binoculars are very compact and lightweight. They measure 5.9” by 5” by 2.8” and weigh 1.33 lbs. Two AA batteries power the image-stabilization function, and last for up…

Reader Built Boats

Phil Boyer started work on a cedar-strip Wee Lassie II in 2005 and only got as far as setting up the molds when he discovered that canoes could be built…

More Boat Profile

The boat is very easy to row solo. I used a temporary foot brace prior to making my floorboards last year and found it considerably helped applying power. The skeg…

Cape Henry 21

After years of building and sailing open camp-cruiser sailboats, my wife, Anne, and I had become less enchanted with crawling around under a tent at anchor. Spending time in our…

Beer Beach Boat

Alasdair Grant, had built STEADFAST, a 16′5″ version of a 15′3″ Beer Beach boat called WILD DUCK. Beer is a village located in the middle of the Lyme Bay coast,…

I wanted to learn how to sail, and was looking for a boat I could easily manage singlehanded and that had enough room for a few friends to join in…

Subscribe Today!

Become a subscriber today and you’ll recieve a new issue every month plus unlimited access to our full archive of backlogged issues.

Already a subscriber?   Sign In

Subscribe For Full Access

Flipbooks are available to paid subscribers only. Subscribe now or log in for access.