1977 sunfish sailboat

How the Most Popular Sailboat Ever Was Invented

The Sunfish taught millions of Americans to seize the breeze

Kate Wheeling

It's the platonic ideal of the sailboat, unmistakable in lakes and coastal waters across the country, with its colorful, equilateral triangle sail pulled taut in the summer breeze. It’s also the most popular sailboat ever made, with more than half a million built since the first launch in 1952.

The design of the Sunfish came from Cortlandt Heyniger and Alex Bryan, friends whose company, Alcort, was building a rescue paddleboard for the Red Cross. On a whim, Bryan added a simple sail to the wooden board to create a basic but elegant sailboat. As legend holds, his wife, Aileen Bryan—née Shields, a sailing scion and racing champion—tried sailing the craft and wanted a little more room to maneuver, as she was then pregnant. So Alcort’s first employee, Carl Meinert, designed a cockpit for the Sunfish, drawing the first mock-up in dust on the floor of Alcort’s woodshop in Waterbury, Connecticut. The first Sunfish was built in the early 1950s.

The first models were wood and measured just under 14 feet long. They sold for less than $200—roughly $2,200 in today’s dollars—and could be launched right from the beach without a dock, making the Sunfish an accessible and affordable fixture at vacation houses across the United States.

The Sunfish also opened up the world of sailboat racing to those who could not afford yachts and club memberships: 1963 saw the first North American championship for Sunfish racers, and the first Sunfish World Championship was held in the U.S. Virgin Islands in 1970. The boat’s simplicity meant winning was truly a testament to one’s skills; as one Sunfish dealer told the New York Times in 1970, “Racing one puts a lot on the man.” Or woman, adds Lee Parks, a two-time winner of the women’s North American national championship: “Unlike some other classes, the Sunfish class is male and female. It’s multigenerational. Anybody can sail them.” In 1977, Fortune magazine named the boat one of America’s 25 best-designed products. The Sunfish designers were inducted into the Sailing Hall of Fame in 2021.

Sunfish enthusiasts, whether casual sailors or serious racers, are known for their sportsmanship. According to Parks, “Every event you go to is like a family reunion.”

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Kate Wheeling | READ MORE

Kate Wheeling is a former staff writer at Pacific Standard .

Learn How to Sail a Sunfish Sailboat with Expert Tips and Techniques

Alex Morgan

Sailing a Sunfish sailboat can be an exciting and enjoyable experience for both beginners and experienced sailors. Known for their simplicity and versatility, Sunfish sailboats are popular for recreational sailing and racing. If you’re looking to learn how to sail a Sunfish sailboat, this guide will provide you with the basic knowledge and steps to get started.

We’ll begin by introducing you to the Sunfish sailboat and why it’s a great choice for sailing. Then, we’ll cover the basic parts and terminology of a Sunfish sailboat, followed by the necessary preparations before hitting the water. We’ll delve into the step-by-step process of sailing a Sunfish sailboat, including rigging, boarding, wind awareness, sailing maneuvers, and sail control. We’ll provide safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience, along with common mistakes to avoid.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the fundamental knowledge and skills to confidently sail a Sunfish sailboat.

Key takeaway:

• Learning to sail a Sunfish sailboat allows for an exciting and rewarding experience on the water.
• By understanding the basic parts and terminology of a Sunfish sailboat, beginners can become familiar with the equipment needed for sailing.
• Preparing for sailing by checking weather conditions and ensuring the equipment is in proper condition is essential for a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

What is a Sunfish Sailboat?

A Sunfish sailboat is a small, single-handed sailing dinghy popular for recreational and competitive sailing.

What is a Sunfish Sailboat ? It is designed to be simple and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for beginners and experienced sailors.

The Sunfish sailboat has a unibody construction with a cockpit for the sailor and a single triangular sail.

It is lightweight and has a shallow draft, allowing it to sail in various conditions, including calm lakes and open waters.

The Sunfish is known for its stability and responsiveness, enabling sailors to navigate through waves and make quick turns.

It is easy to rig, launch, transport, and store due to its simplicity and compact size.

Fact: Introduced in 1952, the Sunfish sailboat has become one of the world’s most popular sailboat designs. Over 300,000 boats have been sold worldwide.

Why Learn to Sail a Sunfish Sailboat?

• Fun: Learning to sail a Sunfish sailboat can provide a thrilling and exhilarating experience on the water. Glide through waves, harness the power of the wind, and experience joy and freedom.
• Physical activity: Sailing a Sunfish sailboat requires using your muscles to steer, control the sail, and adjust the rigging. It can improve your overall fitness.
• Developing sailing skills: Sailing a Sunfish sailboat helps cultivate sailing skills like understanding wind patterns, mastering maneuvers, and improving boat handling abilities. These skills are valuable for recreational and competitive sailing.
• Connecting with nature: Being on the water and amidst nature brings peace and tranquility. Sailing a Sunfish sailboat allows you to observe wildlife, enjoy breathtaking views, and connect with the elements.
• Building confidence: Learning to sail a Sunfish sailboat boosts confidence and self-esteem as you develop new skills and overcome challenges.
• Bonding with others: Sailing is a social activity, offering quality time with family, friends, and fellow sailing enthusiasts. Collaborate as a team to operate the sailboat and create lasting memories.

Basic Parts and Terminology of a Sunfish Sailboat

Get ready to set sail as we dive into the world of Sunfish sailboats! In this section, we’ll uncover the essential parts and terminology that every sailor should know. From understanding the hull to exploring the mast and boom, and getting familiar with the rigging, we’ll equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the waters with confidence. So, grab your life jacket and let’s explore the fascinating components that make up a Sunfish sailboat.

Understanding the Hull

When learning to sail a Sunfish Sailboat , it’s crucial to have a deep understanding of the hull . The hull, made from lightweight and durable fiberglass , allows the sailboat to effortlessly glide through the water. Its “ V ” shape ensures a smooth glide, reducing drag and enabling the sailboat to reach maximum speed. The hull is divided into sections, including the bow and stern , which aid in steering and maneuverability.

Sailors will find comfort in the hull’s spacious cockpit , where they can sit or stand while sailing. This cockpit provides easy access to the sail and rigging , facilitating smooth sailing. The hull may boast additional features such as storage compartments for equipment and a drain plug to remove any excess water.

Understanding the intricate workings of the hull is crucial for safely navigating a Sunfish Sailboat. It empowers sailors to have full control over the sailboat’s direction, make necessary adjustments, and confidently tackle various weather conditions. Therefore, becoming familiar with the hull is not just important but an essential step towards becoming a proficient sailor.

Exploring the Mast and Boom

The mast and boom are crucial components of a Sunfish sailboat that play a vital role in controlling the sail and maneuvering the boat. Let’s delve into their features and functions:

– Mast : The mast is a tall pole crafted from lightweight materials such as aluminum or fiberglass. It offers vertical support to the sail and holds it in place. The mast is inserted into a mast step on the boat’s deck. It can be raised or lowered by utilizing a halyard, which is a line connected to the sail. Sail control lines like the main sheet and boom vang are attached to the mast to ensure efficient control.

– Boom : The boom is a horizontal spar that extends from the mast towards the rear of the sailboat. It aids in controlling the position of the sail by enabling it to move back and forth based on the wind direction. The boom is attached to the mast at the gooseneck, allowing it to pivot upwards and downwards. Its position is regulated by adjusting the outhaul, which is a line responsible for controlling its extension or retraction. The boom serves as a rigid lever that distributes the force of the wind evenly across the sail.

Understanding the mast and boom is essential to effectively control the sail and navigate the Sunfish sailboat. By mastering their functions, sailors can optimize the performance of the boat by adjusting the sail’s position and shape according to the prevailing wind conditions.

Getting Familiar with the Rigging

When familiarizing with the rigging of a Sunfish sailboat, it’s important to understand the parts and their functions. Here’s a helpful list:

By familiarizing with these rigging components, you’ll be prepared to operate a Sunfish sailboat and enjoy sailing.

Fun Fact: The Sunfish sailboat was designed in 1952 by Alexander Bryan and has since become one of the most popular recreational sailboats worldwide. Its simplicity, durability, and versatility make it a favorite among sailors of all skill levels.

Preparing for Sailing

Preparing to set sail on a Sunfish sailboat involves two crucial aspects: checking the weather conditions and ensuring all equipment is ready. Weather conditions play a pivotal role in determining the success and safety of your sailing adventure. Having your equipment meticulously prepared and in optimal condition is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience . Let’s dive into these sub-sections and uncover the tips and tricks that will help you navigate these preparations like a seasoned sailor .

Checking the Weather Conditions

When preparing to sail a Sunfish sailboat, it is important to check the weather conditions beforehand. This ensures the safety and smooth sailing of your experience. Here are a few factors to consider:

Wind speed: Determine the current wind speed, as it directly impacts your sailing experience. Check the forecast or use a windometer for an accurate reading. Ideally, a moderate wind speed of 5-15 knots is best for sailing a Sunfish sailboat.

Wind direction: Understand the wind’s direction, as it determines your course and maneuverability on the water. Plan your sailing route accordingly, considering obstacles or hazards.

Temperature and weather conditions: Note the temperature and general weather conditions. Extreme weather like thunderstorms or high winds can be dangerous for sailing. Ensure the weather is suitable and safe.

Tides and currents: If sailing in an area with tides or currents, check tide tables or current charts to understand water movements. This helps you plan your sail and avoid unpredictable or hazardous conditions.

By checking the weather conditions before setting sail, you ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience on your Sunfish sailboat. Always prioritize safety and adjust plans based on weather conditions.

Preparing the Equipment

When preparing to sail a Sunfish sailboat , follow these steps to ensure your equipment is ready:

1. Check the condition of the sail, mast, boom, and rigging for damages or issues.

2. Have necessary safety equipment on board, such as life jackets, a whistle, and a first aid kit .

3. Inspect the rudder and tiller to ensure proper functioning and secure attachment.

4. Check the hull for cracks or leaks, and make necessary repairs before setting sail.

5. Ensure the daggerboard is in good condition and properly attached to the boat.

6. Check all ropes, lines, and cleats for good condition and proper connection.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your equipment is in working order and ready for a safe sailing experience on a Sunfish sailboat.

The Sunfish sailboat was designed in 1952 by Alcort, Inc. It gained popularity for its simplicity and ease of use. Originally intended for recreational sailing, it has become a popular choice for racing as well. The design has remained largely unchanged over the years, with minor modifications for improved performance and durability. Today, the Sunfish sailboat is beloved by sailors of all skill levels for its versatility and timeless design.

Steps to Sail a Sunfish Sailboat

Get ready to embark on an exciting and adventurous journey as we uncover the step-by-step process of sailing a Sunfish sailboat . From rigging the sailboat to mastering wind awareness and steering, we’ll cover it all. We’ll also explore the art of sailing maneuvers and controlling the sail, ensuring you have the skills to navigate the open waters with ease. So, grab your sailing gear and let’s dive into the world of Sunfish sailboat sailing!

1. Rigging the Sailboat

To rig a Sunfish sailboat, proper steps must be followed . First, attach the mast to the mast step using a mast step plug. Then, use the boom vang to attach the boom to the mast. Next, slide the luff of the mainsail into the mast groove and secure the tack to the boom. Hoist the mainsail by pulling up on the halyard line and adjust the tension for the sail shape. Control the sail angle by attaching the sheet to the eye strap at the back of the boom. Make sure to adjust the outhaul to control the tension of the bottom of the sail. Check the tension of the halyard, vang, and downhaul ropes for proper sail shape and control. Before sailing, it is crucial to ensure all lines and fittings are secure and properly fastened. Rigging the sailboat correctly is essential for optimal performance and control on the water.

2. Boarding the Sailboat

To board a Sunfish sailboat, follow these steps:

1. Boarding the Sailboat : Approach the sailboat from the side or stern, ensuring stability.

2. Boarding the Sailboat : Step onto the centerboard or daggerboard, placing one foot at a time while balancing your weight.

3. Boarding the Sailboat : Carefully lower yourself onto the deck, keeping a firm grip on the gunwale for support.

4. Boarding the Sailboat : Once on the deck, find your balance and position yourself towards the front of the cockpit, facing the bow of the boat.

5. Boarding the Sailboat : Hold onto the hiking straps or grab rail for stability as you prepare to set sail.

Boarding a sailboat can be challenging, especially for beginners. Approach the boat with caution and use proper technique for a safe and stable entry. By following these steps, you’ll be ready to embark on your sailing adventure on a Sunfish sailboat. Always wear a life jacket and be mindful of your surroundings for safe sailing.

3. Getting into Position

To successfully get into position for sailing a Sunfish sailboat , follow these steps:

• Stand at the boat’s side, facing the bow.
• Grab the edge of the cockpit with one hand for stability.
• Step your other foot into the cockpit, maintaining balance.
• Slowly lower yourself into the cockpit, keeping your weight centered.
• Sit comfortably with a straight back and feet stretched out in front.
• Hold the mainsheet and tiller to control the sailboat.

Pro-tip: Before getting into position, ensure the sailboat is stable and properly balanced to prevent accidents or tipping over while sailing. Adjust your position as needed when the wind and waves change for stability and control of the Sunfish sailboat .

4. Wind Awareness and Steering

To effectively navigate a Sunfish Sailboat and develop wind awareness and steering proficiency, follow these steps:

1. Position yourself: Stand or sit on the boat’s centerline, maintaining balance.

2. Observe wind direction: Look at flags, waves, and ripples on the water to determine wind direction. Pay attention to nearby boats.

3. Feel the wind on your face: Allow the wind to guide your understanding of its strength and direction.

4. Point into the wind: Steer your boat toward the wind to sail upwind or “close-hauled.” Adjust the sail to catch the wind.

5. Release the sail: When sailing downwind, ease the sail to allow the wind to fill it from behind.

6. Adjust sails for optimal power: Make small adjustments to the sail position while sailing on different points of sail, such as reaching and running, to maximize speed and control.

7. Use body weight: Shift your body weight to maintain balance and stability as you adjust the sail and steer the boat through changing wind conditions.

8. Practice steering: Use the tiller to turn the boat in the desired direction. Push the tiller away from you to turn away from the wind, and pull it towards you to turn towards the wind.

9. Avoid excessive steering: Minimize abrupt or excessive steering movements, as they can slow down the boat and make it less stable.

By incorporating wind awareness and mastering steering techniques, you will enhance your ability to navigate a Sunfish Sailboat with proficiency and control.

5. Sailing Maneuvers

• 5.1 Tacking: Tacking, one of the sailing maneuvers, is a technique that changes the sailboat’s direction by turning the bow through the wind. By pushing the tiller away from you and pulling the sail towards the center of the boat, you can execute this maneuver and sail against the wind.
• 5.2 Jibing: Jibing, another sailing maneuver, is a technique that changes the sailboat’s direction by turning the stern through the wind. To perform this maneuver, pull the tiller towards you and adjust the sail to the opposite side of the boat, allowing the sailboat to change course and sail with the wind.
• 5.3 Tacking or Jibing around a buoy: When participating in a race or navigating around a buoy, tacking or jibing around the buoy is a crucial skill to master. This maneuver, requiring precise timing and coordination between the skipper, crew, and wind conditions, allows you to change the sailboat’s direction while rounding the buoy.
• 5.4 Gybing: Gybing, one of the sailing maneuvers, is a technique used to change the sailboat’s direction when sailing downwind. By swinging the stern through the wind, you can execute this maneuver. It is crucial to exercise careful control of the sail and tiller to avoid any accidents.
• 5.5 Heaving to: Heaving to is a sailing maneuver that allows you to stop or slow down a sailboat while maintaining some control over the sail. By positioning the sail and rudder, you can remain stationary or drift in a controlled manner, making this technique an essential skill to learn.

These sailing maneuvers, referred to as 5. Sailing Maneuvers, are of utmost importance in mastering the art of sailing a Sunfish sailboat. To become a skilled sailor and experience the freedom and excitement of sailing, it is recommended to practice these maneuvers in various wind conditions.

6. Controlling the Sail and Adjusting the Rigging

To master the art of controlling the sail and adjusting the rigging of a Sunfish sailboat, follow these steps:

1. Familiarize yourself with the lines and controls on the boat.

2. Properly adjust the boom vang to control sail tension. Excess tension reduces speed, while insufficient tension causes the sail to luff.

3. Check and adjust the mainsheet to control the sail’s position. Tightening the mainsheet increases speed, while loosening it depowers the sail.

4. Adjust the cunningham to control tension at the front of the sail. Tightening it flattens the sail for better efficiency in stronger winds.

5. Monitor the traveler to control the horizontal position of the boom. Adjusting the traveler helps control the sail’s angle and optimize its shape for different wind conditions.

6. Pay attention to the downhaul to control tension in the lower part of the sail. Adjusting the downhaul helps control the sail’s depth and performance.

7. Practice and experiment with different settings to find the optimal sail and rigging adjustments for various wind conditions and sailing maneuvers.

By mastering the art of controlling the sail and adjusting the rigging, you can maximize the performance of your Sunfish sailboat and have a more enjoyable sailing experience.

Safety Tips for Sailing a Sunfish Sailboat

When sailing a Sunfish sailboat, it is important to prioritize safety. Follow these safety tips to ensure a smooth and secure sailing experience:

• Always wear a life jacket while on the water to enhance your safety.
• Prior to setting sail, check the weather forecast to avoid encountering hazardous storms or strong winds.
• To ensure optimal performance, inspect the boat and its equipment before every sail to confirm their proper functionality and condition.
• Stay vigilant and fully aware of your surroundings while sailing. Constantly watch for other boats, obstacles, and any changes in the conditions.
• If you are a beginner, consider taking sailing lessons to acquire the essential techniques and skills for handling the Sunfish sailboat correctly.
• Be mindful of the possibility of capsizing and practice how to right the boat and get back in safely.
• In order to prevent potential accidents, maintain a safe distance from swimming areas and other water activities.
• For emergencies or the need to seek help, bring a communication device, like a waterproof phone case or a marine radio .
• Prior to sailing, inform someone on land about your plans, including your estimated return time and location , as an additional safety precaution.
• Always prioritize safety, trust your instincts, and use common sense while sailing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When sailing a Sunfish sailboat, it is important not to make the common mistake of failing to secure the daggerboard. This can result in instability and difficulties in controlling the boat.

Another common mistake to avoid is forgetting to check the wind direction before setting sail. Having knowledge of the wind direction is crucial in adjusting the sails and navigating effectively.

Incorrectly trimming the sails can lead to poor performance and a loss of speed. It is essential to trim the sails properly according to the wind conditions in order to maximize speed and control.

Overloading the boat with excessive weight can negatively impact its stability and maneuverability. It is important to adhere to the recommended weight limits and distribute the weight evenly to maintain balance.

It is a serious mistake to ignore safety precautions such as not wearing a life jacket or disregarding other safety measures. Safety should always be a top priority while sailing, and all necessary safety measures should be followed.

Some Facts About How To Sail A Sunfish Sailboat:

• ✅ The Sunfish is a small, one-person single sail boat that is popular for sailing at summer camps and introducing people to the joy of sailing.
• ✅ The Sunfish features a flat, boardlike hull and a crab claw sail mounted to an un-stayed mast.
• ✅ It is easy to learn to sail a Sunfish, with many people being able to do so in a day through trial and error.
• ✅ Lessons are recommended for those who want to learn to sail a Sunfish.
• ✅ The Sunfish has become extremely popular, with a quarter million sold worldwide as of 1995.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i install the sunfish sailing web app on my home screen.

To install the Sunfish Sailing web app on your home screen, you need to use the built-in Safari browser. Simply follow these steps:

1. Open Safari on your device. 2. Navigate to the Sunfish Sailing website. 3. Tap the Share button at the bottom of the Safari screen. 4. Scroll down and tap “Add to Home Screen”. 5. Customize the name of the app if desired, then tap “Add”. 6. The Sunfish Sailing web app will now be installed on your home screen.

What is a sail plan and how does it affect a sailboat?

A sail plan refers to the arrangement and size of a sailboat’s sails. It plays a crucial role in determining the boat’s performance, speed, and control. The sail plan, along with the hull design, creates lift forces that propel the sailboat through the water. By adjusting the sail plan, such as the position and angle of the sails, sailors can optimize the balance of forces and improve the boat’s performance.

Are there any YouTube videos available for learning to sail a Sunfish?

Yes, there are YouTube videos available for learning to sail a Sunfish. While videos can provide some guidance, it is recommended to take a class or lessons to learn the basics of sailing a Sunfish. Hands-on instruction and guidance from experienced instructors can greatly help in developing proper sailing techniques and ensuring a safer and more enjoyable sailing experience.

What is a stopper knot and why is it important in Sunfish sailing?

A stopper knot is a knot tied at the end of a rope or halyard to prevent it from pulling out while on the water. In Sunfish sailing, a stopper knot is recommended to secure the halyard, which raises and lowers the sail, to prevent it from accidentally coming undone. It helps ensure proper control over the sail and prevents any mishaps or accidents while sailing.

Do recreation departments offer sailing classes during the summer?

Yes, many recreation departments offer sailing classes specifically during the summer season. These classes are designed to introduce individuals to the fundamentals of sailing and provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge to sail small boats like the Sunfish. Participating in these classes can be a great way to learn and develop a passion for sailing in a structured and supervised environment.

Can a Sunfish sailboat be launched from anywhere with water access?

Yes, a Sunfish sailboat can be launched from various locations with water access. Whether it is from the beach, a dock, or any other suitable waterfront area, the lightweight and easily maneuverable nature of the Sunfish make it convenient for launching and sailing in different water environments. It is important to always consider safety precautions and adhere to local rules and regulations when launching and sailing the boat.

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• Sailboat Guide

1974 AMF Alcort Sunfish

• Description

Seller's Description

1974 Sunfish sailboat in solid, recreational sailing-ready condition, including all of the following gear: Dolly Top Cover Varnished Daggerboard and Rudder with storage bag Classic wooden tiller Mainsheet deck block with deck cleats

The deck and hull are solid and the mast step holds water, i.e. no leaks. It has the usual minor dings one would expect in a boat of this age, but nothing major. This boat has many years of useful life left as either a club racer or recreational sailor.

The available trailer is a flatbed trailer with Sunfish-specifc supports. Bearings are good and lights work. Trailer has 1-7/8in hitch and four-way flat electrical connection. Trailer is $250 extra. Do not have a title to the trailer.

The dolly is the aluminum dolly shown in the last picture.

Also have a brand-new, never flown multi-color Sunfish racing sail for an additional $300, including new sail rings.

I can also deliver in the next few weeks to anywhere with 250 miles of Deltaville - or you can meet me in Deltaville to save on the $1/outbound mile delivery charge.

Cash or Venmo much preferred.

You can reach me by email at the above link and I will get right back to you or via phone at 7fore8-Oh17fore, where the code for the area is 54(1 less than 1). YOU MUST INCLUDE A WORKING US PHONE NUMBER IN YOUR RESPONSE OR I WILL ASSUME YOU ARE AN INTERNET SCAMMER. do NOT contact me with unsolici

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)

The SUPER SUNFISH is a version of the standard SUNFISH offered with an unstayed cat rig. A kit was also available to use on an existing SUNFISH. The idea had developed a few years earlier using a slightly more complex rig (FORMULA S). AMF adopted this, their own version, which was availble for 10 years beginning in 1974. The smaller MINIFISH was available with a similar option.

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AMF 1976 - Sunfish Like

• Thread starter juanboy2k
• Start date Apr 29, 2006
• Brand-Specific Forums

Greetings everyone!I thought I had a sunfish... the sail is definately sunfish like, as is the size (13'10") the dagger board, the rudder, etc., are all sunfish like. However, this boat has a teak wood coaming... it has a no lip around the cockpit (to anchor main sheet block), but otherwise, it looks very much like a sunfish.SO ... the original owners say it was an "AMF" boat. In 1976, when AMF was making Sunfish, did they ALSO make variants that were SIMILAR to the sunfish (same sail rigging, etc.) but that were, well, different????Most important question: Will Sunfish replacement parts (lines, rudder, etc.) work for this one? I can produce a picture if necessary [where would I put that?]thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!john.  

Many fish in the sea From what I have read about sunfish history and AMF there were lots of AMF boats. It seems AMF was buying up boat companies in some sort of attempt to be the Walmart of sporting goods. Sunfish came from Alcort and as I understand it AMF made a cheaper version they called the sunlite or something like that. I have seen a AMF mini-sunfish advertised on Ebay. My neighbor had a force-five by AMF and one of the people at my sailing beach has a AMF puffer. There are quite a few sunfish looking boats where I sail too. None of them say AMF, but they look exactly like my sunfish. I think there were a whole bunch of copy cats. Have you looked up the "sunfish sailing class organization"? They are probably the best place for information.  

Copy Cats John,Check with the Sunfish-Sailor group. There's a clone-fish list at their web page. They seem to know older Sunfish and the related Alcort/AMF boats. Send them a picture of your boat. It's a good chance they will know what it is and if the Sunfish parts will work on it. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sunfish_sailor/  

arcticmonkey

Copy Cats Dude - We race Laser and Sunfish at our lake and there's a bunch of lookalike Sunfish in that group. Just because it has a Sunfish looking sail and measures the same doesn't make it a Sunfish. Parts don't swap either. I've seen them try and most of the time it won't work. Look at your serial number by the rudder. The first letters tell the boat company code. find the code in the Coast Guard database. Canada and the States use the same code so it doesn't matter if it wad made here even.  

Robert19706

Surfwind Ivan: Your right that Sears sold the Surfwind but I thought, maybe incorrectly, that AMF manufactored it for them. Where did you find such a good picture of it? Thanks, Robert  

Clonefish Directory Robert,Look into the link in my earlier post. That group has a directory of clones.I had a pamphlet from AMF that showed all their boats. There were a whole bunch, but none I recall with a blunt nose like an E-Scow.Maybe they made it for Sears and never sold it under their own name.  

amf windflite Hi, AMF had a cheaper version of the sunfish called the winflite. It was designed to be more accomodating to cartopping It was renamed the KG 14 after Katherine Goodhue whose husband Joe was the person that really pioneered the sunfish in the Northeast.It takes all the same parts as a sunfish.It was not cheaper in the sense that it was poorly made, it was less expensive and didn't have the resale value of a sunfish because it was not a class boat.  

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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.

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Sunfish Sail Afterglow

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Sunfish Bridle 3 Loop (Wire)

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Sunfish Bridle 2 Loop (Wire)

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Since the 1950s, there has been no better way to play on the water than in a Sunfish. Find out why we're the go to source for dinghy sailing parts and enjoy FREE SHIPPING on qualifying orders . Our staff of Sunfish and dinghy sailing experts is on hand to answer questions about rigging a Sunfish and provide tips. Let us help you get ready to own the water in your Sunfish!

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**Product Availability - Please Read**

Due to changes in the supply chain for new Sunfish and related parts, many one design Sunfish components are currently unavailable. Products we have in stock or are able to source will be listed on this page. Other products that are unavailable may be listed elsewhere on our website for reference. Our team is working hard to find new sources for Sunfish parts and will add those to our catalog as they become available. While our selection may be limited compared to previous seasons, we remain committed to serving Sunfish sailors and will continue to offer as many of the parts, rigging, sails, and accessories you need to keep your Sunfish at its best.

Sunfish Sails & Sail Rings Sunfish sails are recognized all over the world for their bright, fun colors. We stock an extensive selection of popular recreational sails in a variety of colorways plus the classic white racing sail for the hardcore Sunfish racing sailor. Don't forget to replace your sail rings when upgrading to a new sail, and add a set of tell tails for maximizing performance. 

Sunfish Hull & Deck Parts West Coast Sailing is your source for hull and deck fittings for your Sunfish sailboat. Check out our selection of bailers, drain plugs, hiking straps, inspection ports, bridles, gudgeons, bow handles, and more.

Sunfish Covers Protect your Sunfish with a proper Sunfish cover, blade bag, or spar bag. Our covers are waterproof and resist both mildew and UV. They fit snuggly on your boat to provide max protection. Use a blade bag to protect your rudder, tiller, and centerboard, or pick up a spar bag to safely store and transport your mast and booms.

Sunfish Sailboat Lines & Line Kits Sunfish sail boat ropes and lines including mainsheets, sunfish halyards, outhaul lines, sunfish bridles and more.

Sunfish Rudder & Tiller Parts Keep your Sunfish heading the right direction with our selection of Sunfish rudder, tiller, and centerboard replacements and spare parts. We stock sunfish rudder parts, sunfish tillers and tiller extensions, centerboards, sunfish rudder pins and spring posts, pivot bolts, and more.

Sunfish Dollies & Trailers Keep things easy on shore with a Sunfish beach dolly or trailer. We stock dollies and trailers from Dynamic Dollies and Racks, Right-On, and Trailex, all designed specifically for your Sunfish! Sunfish dollies ship via our standard free ground shipping and are easy to assemble. Trailers can be shipping anywhere in the US or picked up fully assembled from our warehouse here in Portland, Oregon.

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