old sunfish sailboat

Boat Profile

A simple sailboat from the 1950s

From Issue   August 2024

I f you’ve been around dinghy-sailing a while, there is a better-than-average chance that you’ve come across the venerable Sunfish (or have mistaken one of its many imitators for a Sunfish). Audrey has been messing about with Sunfish since 1982, and she first capsized one with me onboard in 1984. Through the years we’ve spent many memorable hours sailing this simple boat and have had immeasurable fun restoring old and well-used, even abused basket-case boats.

The Sunfish, a direct descendant of the 1945 Sailfish, was the creation of ALCORT Sailboats, founded by Alex Bryan and Cortlandt Heniger. A hollow-bodied wooden “sit-on” sailboat, the Sailfish was featured in LIFE magazine’s 1949 article “World’s Wettest, Sportiest Boat.” It went through various iterations and in 1952, the designers at ALCORT, with considerable input from Aileen Shields Bryan, introduced a new iteration they called the Sunfish. Aileen was considered one of the best female sailors of the day, having won the 1948 Adams Cup—the Women’s National Sailing Championship—as well as the Atlantic and 210 class championships. She recommended adding a small cockpit as a foot well for more comfort, and widening the hull by 12″ for more stability. Since 1952 the Sunfish has been in continuous production and by 2013, more than 500,000 had been built and sailed in over 50 countries.

While owing much to its predecessor, the Sunfish is more boat than board. The beam was increased by 12″ to improve stability and a footwell and splashboards were added. The sail is no longer laced to the spars and now attached with clip rings.

Between 1952 and the mid-1960s, the Sunfish was built in plywood and kits were available. We acquired hull number 13 of the pre-production boats and restored it in 2013. Based on the emerging popularity of fiberglass construction in the late 1950s, ALCORT produced the first fiberglass Sunfish in 1960. It was immensely popular for recreational sailors as well as one-design racers, so popular that it was inducted into the American Sailboat Hall of Fame in 1995.

The Sunfish is a medium-sized hard-chined pontoon-hull dinghy with a length of 13′ 9″ and a 4′ 1″ beam. Draft with the daggerboard down is 2′ 11″ and the modern-day hull weighs 120 lbs. (The ALCORT hulls of the 1960s were built a little stouter, with hull weights of 139 lbs.) Crew capacity is 500 lbs and there is just enough room for two adults. The optimal weight for a solo sailor is up to 190 lbs.

Despite the raised freeboard and the splashboard forward of the footwell, the Sunfish is still a wet boat, making it more popular in areas with warmer water.

The virtually unsinkable pontoon hull of most fiberglass Sunfish contains six closed-cell expanded-polystyrene blocks—three in the bow and three in the stern—which structurally tie the hull to the deck. The 2″-wide blocks are held in place by marine-grade foam, which provides additional flotation. If you consider buying an old Sunfish, it is wise to make sure that the internal foam is not waterlogged (by weighing it) or detached (by pounding lightly on the deck and hull with your hand to tell if it feels and sounds solid). Recent Sunfish have internal plastic air bladders for flotation.

New boats can be ordered with either a mahogany or Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) rudder and daggerboard. Whether choosing the classic look of wood or the stronger FRP material, the 44″-long daggerboard and foil-shaped rudder offer excellent control on all points of sail. The daggerboards have increased in length through the years from 31″ on the early wooden hulls to 39″ for the fiberglass boats, and then 44″ for the latest racing daggerboard. The newest daggerboards are foil-shaped. Rudder design has also evolved: from a round blade to a spoon tip to the angular blade shape that has been in use since 1971, when the rudder system was changed from the patented rudder-releasing mechanism made in bronze by Wilcox & Crittenden to an aluminum gudgeon, pintle, and spring design. The new system allows the sailor to raise or lower the rudder while seated in the cockpit, and the rudder will also easily kick up by itself for beaching or if an underwater obstacle is struck.

When becalmed, the Sunfish is easily paddled. If alone and using a single-blade paddle, a sailor can hold the helm over with their body and thus maintain directional stability while keeping both hands free. When the paddle is not needed, it can be stowed on the foredeck, held in place with its grip on the splashboard, the shaft between the halyard and the mast, and the blade beneath a line stretched taut across the deck from the bow.

The 75-sq-ft lateen rig sail with its single sheet, and a basic tiller and extension—one string and one stick—are all that is needed for a day of sailing. The spars are made of anodized T 6061 aluminum, with the 13′ 9″ booms being held aloft by a 10’ aluminum deck-stepped mast. The sail was originally lashed to the booms with cord but now has plastic sail clips that look like shower curtain rings. The original sails were cut from cotton by Old Town, but when Dacron debuted, Ratsey & Lapthorn became the sailmaker of choice introducing a little extra draft into the foot of the original flat five-panel sail. Since 1979 Sunfish sails have been made by North Sails. Sail controls for the recreational rig include outhauls for the upper and lower booms. For the racing rig, there are extra lines run to the lower boom that control a cunningham to adjust the luff tension and another line to control the foot tension. With this rig, all skill levels, from beginner to expert, can go out and have a great time on the boat.

Sunfish have been built by several manufacturers with most of the boats from the 1970s through the early 1980s produced by ALCORT, a division of AMF, one of the largest American recreational equipment companies. During the peak of AMF/ALCORT’s production as many as 60 Sunfish a day were leaving the factory in Waterbury, Connecticut. The manufacturer of the boats since 2007 has been Laser Performance, with hulls now built in Portugal after stints in the UK and a short period in China.

More than 500,000 Sunfish have been built and regattas are popular around the world. The regatta pictured here was hosted in July 2024 by Willow Bank Yacht Club on Cazenovia Lake in New York. A one-day regatta of five races, it welcomed all classes of “legal” Sunfish.

Along with the rudder system change in 1971, a storage cubby was added under the aft end of the cockpit, and around the same time, the DePersia Venturi bailer went from aluminum to plastic construction, a welcome change from the earlier version, which was susceptible to corrosion. The bailer allows the cockpit to self-drain when the boat is making even just a few knots of headway, and closes off with an internal float ball or plug inserted from inside the cockpit. The foredeck has a bow handle; newer hulls with their rolled gunwales are easier to handle on the beach. The original tillers were wooden, usually cut from ash, while modern tillers are aluminum, either straight or wishbone style. The original Sunfish had no sheet fairleads; then a small open fairlead was added to the cockpit lip—the “sheet hook”—and in the 1980s a swivel cam cleat was introduced. Today’s boats usually sport a ratchet block on a stand-up spring set just ahead of the cockpit. Another upgrade was the addition of a hiking strap mounted close to the cockpit floor.

Our current fleet includes the 1953 wooden hull, a 1965 ALCORT, and two AMF boats from 1981 and 1982. They all sail wonderfully, and we appreciate even the older hulls, which weigh a few more pounds but are resistant to oil-canning and can take a beating about as well as the thicker fiberglass construction of the ALCORT Sunfish. The sail hoists easily with one halyard that passes through a deck block or bullseye fairlead to a horn cleat, while the sheet runs from a bridle spanning the aft deck, through two boom blocks and back down to the cockpit.

Launching requires pointing the bow into the wind, pushing the rudder down, and shoving off. After getting settled on the cockpit edge, the daggerboard goes down a bit, and the sailor falls off and sheets in. Skipper Audrey likes to put her boat on the chine and hike out, while other folks prefer to sail flat. The boat tacks smoothly and, with the tiller over just shy of the deck edge, carries enough speed to avoid getting caught in irons. On a run, the daggerboard can be raised, and it will usually stay in place on its own, but the latest trick is to run a bungee from the bow handle back to the daggerboard to cant the board in the trunk and hold it in the selected spot. The bungee or a line should always be used to tether the daggerboard to the hull to keep it from going astray in a capsize—you stand on the daggerboard to right the hull.

On a calm warm day, the Sunfish is a fun boat for a family outing. In winds over 15 knots however, the boat can be a handful and more suited to a crew of one or two experienced sailors.

Sunfish behave admirably up to around 15 knots of wind; above that people and parts start breaking, and only a few of our most experienced racer friends tempt the more challenging conditions. If the wind dies, put the rudder down and the Sunfish will paddle well with a single-blade paddle or kayak paddle. We’ve even used a Sunfish as a stand-up-paddle platform—very stable but also heavy. The boat is quick to rig, which maximizes time on the water. While a Sunfish and its spars are cartoppable, lately we have been using our utility trailer and dolly.

New Sunfish are produced by Laser Performance and shipped worldwide. Used examples are available in many areas. Look for a relatively clean boat with minimal hull damage and dry, intact foam innards. The spars should be straight. New and used sails, rudders, and daggerboards can be tracked down through dealers or on various social-media platforms. All the parts are interchangeable on the fiberglass fleet with the exception of the old versus new rudder systems. Resale value is high, so you can’t go wrong with a moderately priced, ready-to-sail Sunfish.

Kent and Audrey Lewis have been messing about with Sunfish for decades and are experts at basket-case restorations. Knowledge gleaned from dozens of restorations is compiled in The Sunfish Owner’s Manual and logged at Small Boat Restoration .

Sunfish Particulars

Length:   13′ 9″ Beam:   4′ 1″ Draft:   2′ 11″ Sail area:   75 sq ft Hull weight:   120 lbs

The Sunfish Recreational , manufactured by Laser Performance , sells for $5,950 and the Sunfish Race with race sail and additional control lines sells for $6,150.

The Sunfish Forum is a good source for further information.

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

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Comments (8)

I’m intrigued by the lateen rig on the Sunfish. I presume this is largely self-vanging, like a balanced lug. The rig has the advantage that it can be dropped in a squall, something that can’t be done with the sleeved Laser sail.

No vang per design, but folks add one for racing performance by using the excess halyard back through the deck fairlead and up around the gooseneck swivel, then tied off. Or a variation on that theme.

We like to keep the boat simple, one stick, one string.

Researching all this for an exhibit at Mystic a decade or two ago, I found some interesting tidbits. Al and Cort were iceboat builders and canoe sailors; they responded to a request by the Red Cross for a paddle board for lifeguards, and came up with a prone paddle boat not unlike today’s stand-up paddle boards. They were turned down, so figured out something else they could do with their work. So stick in a daggerboard and add the lateen sail that was standard in open-canoe sailing.

A friend of a friend had a connection to Life and got the right photog and writer to do a spread. I think it ran over several pages, maybe in the center. It’s hard to imagine a similar media impact that would have today: viral when it hit the stands. It was the only capsize, right, and sail away boat in existence then.

A contributing factor, possibly one of the major factors in the Sunfish was that Mrs. Bryan was pregnant and found the Sailfish difficult to sail. A cockpit made all the difference.

Aileen Shields came from good sailing stock, her father was Cornelius Shields. The family knew a thing or two or three about sailing.

I once had my in-laws’ Sunfish planing on a beam reach on Canandaigua Lake and held my own against a 25′ Wianno Senior.

Nicely written, Kent. Only comment is a pontoon is usually paired or threes, like a catamaran or trimaran. The Sunfish hull is a monohull. The monohull Butterfly and further scows are tunnel hulls. Keep on saving Sunfish!

I think Kent is talking about the hull shape. When viewed in cross section, the bottom edges dip down.

I’m amazed how bruised up a sailor can get with a Sunfish on a breezy day! Kent’s observation about the change in behavior in 15 knots or above is true to my experience!

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Sunfish Class History

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 aluminum 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. Bryan and Heyniger sold “Alcort Sailboats” to American Machine and Foundry Company (AMF) in 1969.

AMF/Alcort Division hired Steve Baker, and later Lee Parks, to organize events and racing leading to establishment of a Class Association. For almost 20 years Sunfish racing and AMF/Alcort were synonymous. In 1971 the original brass rudder fittings were replaced by the spring-loaded kickup system developed for the Minifish. Two daggerboard shapes were introduced in the 1970′s: the “new” style, which was swept back, had less area, and proved unpopular with racers, and the “Barrington” style, developed by the frostbite fleet, which proved equally popular as the original “round” style. As the Class matured, it applied to the then – International Yacht Racing Union and gained International Class status on January 1, 1984.

In mid-1985, Irwin Jacobs of Minstar Corporation of Minneapolis, Minnesota, bought AMF, intending to spin Alcort off, and saw no benefit in continuing to support the Class organization. On July 18, 1985 the International Sunfish Class Association assumed Class management from the manufacturer. On February 14, 1986 David Loveless and Jerry DeGarmo purchased the business, naming it Alcort Sailboats, Inc.

In October, 1986, Alcort Sailboats, Inc., agreed to work with Hans Fogh, then with North Sails, to develop a consistent and ultimate sail shape. At the same time, ultimate daggerboard and rudder shape development was launched. Due to many complaints from Alcort dealers to update the antiquated Sunfish hull design, a new modernized deck was also introduced. The improved deck configuration featured a 3 1/2 inch wider and 1/4" longer cockpit; a rolled flange gunwale (ala Laser) replacing riveted aluminum rails; non-skid on the deck on either side of the cockpit; and a standard hiking strap. In 1988 Loveless and Degarmo sold the company to Pearson Yachts of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, led by J. Gordon Clayton. Pearson acquired rights to the Laser separately.

By January 1989, today’s aerodynamic Racing sail was approved. It is approximately 10% larger in area with shaping fullness, has a 20% bigger window, a Cunningham cringle, is made of longer-lived and more evenly stretching cloth, and reduced equipment differences. the daggerboard had further design attention in 1989. In 1991, Pearson filed for bankruptcy protection. SunfishLaser, Inc., led by Peter Johnstone, was formed in 1991 from the small boats assets of Pearson, with primary funding from North Marine Group, parent company of North Sails.

Production control implemented by “SLI” resulted in hull weight consistency of 128-130 pounds. On January 1, 1994, today’s 3-3/4″ longer and foil shaped daggerboard debuted. It is liked for being forgiving to bad tacks, quicker, with less side slipping, at a cost of the sailor having to work a little harder in a breeze. This saved racers from constant build up and refinishing of wooden boards to get them up to tolerances. Sail America inducted the Sunfish into The American Sailboat Hall of Fame in 1995 in recognition of “a boat that has earned lasting recognition by fostering new enjoyment and growth in the sport of sailing through excellent design and production ingenuity.” In March 1997, Sunfish Laser, Inc. sold the Sunfish to Vanguard Sailboats Inc., led by Chip Johns and Steve Clark.  In 2007 Performance Sailcraft Europe and Vanguard merged to create Laser Performance.  The boat continues to be manufactured by LP to this day.

In 2001, with over 300,000 boats worldwide, the Sunfish’s 50th birthday was celebrated at Newport, Rhode Island. An out-of-the-box Sunfish was sailed at the regatta to the win.

The International Class organization continues its development. Sunfish gained Pan American Games status in 1999 and has been in the Games since. This has caused significant development in Pan American countries.  There are three continental and nine national championships regularly.  Efforts are ongoing for events for cruisers and racers alike, including a continuing commitment to an annual World Championship. Sunfish sailors stay dedicated to the “fun in the sun” mantra! – Gail M. Turluck

International Sunfish Class Association

8070 Willow Tree Way, Alpharetta, Georgia 30005

[email protected]   +1 404-451-7743

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 is a former staff writer at Pacific Standard .

• Sailing the Sunfish: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide

The Sunfish sailboat, a name synonymous with accessibility, simplicity, and joy in the sailing world, has been cutting through waters around the globe with its distinctive lateen sail and flat, board-like hull. Born in the mid-20th century, its inception was driven by a desire to democratize sailing – an ambition that turned into a global phenomenon. The Sunfish’s straightforward design, characterized by its lightweight and easy-to-rig setup, revolutionized how sailboats were made and perceived. This evolution made sailing not just an elite sport but a leisure activity accessible to families and individuals alike.

The design and specifications of the Sunfish have always been about maximizing ease of use without compromising on performance. Its hull is designed for stability, while the lateen sail, a simple yet efficient sail setup, allows for easy control and adaptability to various wind conditions. This combination of design features ensures that the Sunfish sailboat is not only affordable but also a highly versatile craft, appealing to a broad spectrum of sailors from novices to seasoned enthusiasts.

Versatility, Community, and the Sailing Experience

The appeal of the Sunfish sailboat extends far beyond its technical specifications. Its versatility shines whether it's used for a leisurely sail on a local lake or competing in one of many Sunfish racing events held worldwide. This adaptability makes it an ideal choice for sailors of all levels, offering a gentle learning curve for beginners while still providing enough challenge for experienced sailors to enjoy.

The sense of community among Sunfish sailors is palpable. Across the globe, clubs and groups convene around their shared passion for Sunfish sailing, hosting regattas, and races that bring people together. This camaraderie fosters a welcoming environment, making it easy for newcomers to learn and for veterans to share their knowledge and stories. The community aspect of Sunfish sailing is a significant draw, reinforcing the idea that sailing is not just about the time spent on the water but also about the connections made along the way.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .

Check out our latest sailing content:

Mastering sunfish sailing: techniques, maintenance, and more.

Sailing a Sunfish requires an understanding of wind and water, skills that are developed through practice and experience. For those new to the sport, mastering the Sunfish sailboat comes with a sense of achievement, as sailors learn to rig their boats, adjust their sails to the wind, and navigate through waters with confidence. These skills are not only practical but also enrich the sailing experience, making each outing a unique adventure.

Maintaining a Sunfish sailboat is straightforward, ensuring that it remains in top condition for years. Regular maintenance tasks such as inspecting the hull for damage, checking the rigging, and ensuring the sail is in good condition can significantly extend the lifespan of the boat. Additionally, understanding how to prepare the Sunfish for off-season storage is crucial, as proper care during this period can prevent damage and wear, ensuring that the boat is ready for the next sailing season.

Choosing and Customizing Your Sunfish Sailboat

For those looking to buy a new Sunfish sailboat, the market offers a variety of options. Prices vary based on new or used conditions, but affordability remains a key feature of the Sunfish, making it accessible to a wide range of budgets. Moreover, the Sunfish sailboat is highly customizable, allowing sailors to modify their boats to suit personal preferences and needs. Whether it’s upgrading the sail for better performance or adding comfort features for longer sails, the possibilities for personalization are vast, making each Sunfish uniquely tailored to its owner.

In conclusion, the Sunfish sailboat embodies the spirit of sailing – a blend of freedom, adventure, and community. Its simple design, affordability, and versatility have made it a beloved choice among sailors worldwide. Whether you’re embarking on your first sailing journey or looking to add a new chapter to your sailing adventures, the Sunfish offers a perfect platform to explore the waters. With each sail set and horizon chased, the Sunfish sailboat continues to be a symbol of joy and accessibility in the sailing community.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite  sailing destinations.

I am ready to help you with booking a boat for your dream vacation. Contact me.

Denisa Nguyenová

The Sunfish: A Perfect Lake or Urban Sailboat

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Hailed as "the most popular sailboat ever built," the Sunfish is still going strong after more than fifty years. Its popularity is partly due to its low price and easy portability, but it also sails well and is a lot of fun for both beginners and experienced sailors alike. This is a daysailer for active sailing, as it's mostly a single-handed boat. You're likely to get wet unless the water is flat and the wind is light, but for sheer fun and ease of sailing, the Sunfish is terrific. As long as you remember to move your body (the ballast) when you tack and gybe , you can't go wrong with a Sunfish.

The Pros and Cons

• Very easy to rig and sail with a single control line (mainsheet)
• Virtually the only car-top sailboat
• Fast planing sailboat in good wind
• Kick-up rudder and daggerboard allow easy beaching
• Widely available and inexpensive as a used sailboat
• Holds only one full-size adult (or an adult and child - or two teens)
• Tiny cockpit and little freeboard makes for wet sailing
• Not as much a racer as a Laser
• Easily capsized by a beginner

Description

• Length overall: 13 feet 9 inches
• Beam: 4 feet 1 inch
• Draft: daggerboard up: 6-8 inches - adjustable down to 35 inches
• Empty hull weight: 120 lbs.
• Sail area: 75 sq. ft.
• The cockpit is self-bailing with the boat moving
• The lateen sail automatically spills wind when a gust hits
• Races in International Sunfish Class

Replacement parts widely available at dealers and online

• MSRP $4220, or in good condition for a few hundred used

A Perfect Lake or Urban Sailboat

First sold as a wooden boat and do-it-yourself kit, the original fiberglass Sunfish introduced in 1960 has not changed much in the half-century since. Over 300,000 have been built by seven manufacturers over the years, a phenomenal number for any boat. The stable hard-chine hull design and lateen sail rig remain the same and are integral to the boat's success. The lateen sail, compared to the taller Bermuda rig used on most modern sailboats, keeps the force of the wind low and causes less heeling. Another advantage is when a gust strikes, the lateen rig's mechanics allow some wind to spill, reducing the risk of capsizing. While racers prefer never to sacrifice any wind, and consequently many have gone to a Laser or a Super Sunfish (same hull but a Bermuda rig), the traditional Sunfish with lateen sail remains popular and sails well downwind and in light air.

It Stands up Well

While there have been some variations among Sunfish built by the different manufacturers over the decades, the hull has remained rugged and stands up well to abuse. It's not surprising to find a twenty or thirty-year-old Sunfish still in good shape regardless of scratches and dings in the fiberglass. Neophytes are sometimes surprised by the boat's buoyancy and stability, given its thin body profile. With a hollow body and small cockpit, however, the Sunfish floats high and is unsinkable when capsized. With the daggerboard in place, it can be righted fairly easily after a capsize once you learn how .

Responsive to Direction and Wind Changes

A key advantage of the Sunfish, its portability, is a limitation for some. While two small adults or teens can sail together, this is not a boat for social conversation or a quiet, meditative picnic on the water. Rather, a  Hunter 140 or similar daysailer is more comfortable for two or three crew. Since the boat is so responsive to direction and wind changes, and to steering changes and the position of body weight, you need to pay attention to what you're doing at all times.

Except when things are fairly calm, it's not a good idea to cleat down the main sheet, as you want to be able to quickly let the sail out in a strong gust. With one hand on the sheet and the other on the tiller, and ducking below the boom while shifting your weight side to side every tack and gybe, you're kept busy, but that also makes for a more intense sailing experience.

A Great Boat to Stow Away

Overall, this is a great boat to keep at a lake, stow away in your garage or car-top to a nearby bay for an afternoon's great fun. Once you've learned the basics of sailing , anyone can sail a Sunfish. When the wind is good, even the pros can have fun zipping about over the water. If you eventually feel you want a faster, more exciting boat of the same size, consider a Laser.

• Buying a Used Boat Online
• Choosing a Centerboard or Fixed Keel Sailboat
• How to Rig a Preventer Line
• Correct Scope is Essential for Safe and Comfortable Anchoring
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• The Basics of Navigation
• Simple Reefing System for Sailors
• Do It Yourself Boat Trailer Tongue Extension
• How to Tack a Sailboat
• When to Adjust Sailboat Sails for Stronger Winds
• Step-by-Step Instructions for Tying a Sailor's Bowline Knot
• Know Your Boat: Terms for Location, Position, and Direction
• How to Raise the Mainsail
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• How to Make Your Own Stern Pulpit Rail Seat

Specializing in restorations of Sunfish Sailboats

Photo Gallery 1

Photo gallery 2, photo gallery 3, photo gallery 4 new year 2020, photo gallery 5, 2021 new year- photo gallery #6, photo gallery #7 2021, hiking strap installation- 6/18/2021, photo gallery 2021-2022, my restored sunfish pic mix to santana.

This is what happens after Winter boredom sets in 

or It’s the fumes ........ 

New Merch ....

Taking it down to the finish...., my shop mission, keep it original.

The Sunfish sailboats I restore are not  painted. I hand wet sand the original gelcoat to bring back the gloss finish through a multi step process. The hulls are weighed and force dried with hot air if needed. Upgrades include access ports added for inspection to vital areas of the hull. All hulls are stripped  of all hardware and refitte

The Sunfish sailboats I restore are not  painted. I hand wet sand the original gelcoat to bring back the gloss finish through a multi step process. The hulls are weighed and force dried with hot air if needed. Upgrades include access ports added for inspection to vital areas of the hull. All hulls are stripped  of all hardware and refitted with new or refinished parts as needed. All boats are re-rigged with new lines , sail rings, sails( if wanted). Other upgrades and custom features can be added to make your sailing experience even better. 

Keep It Green

In Vermont clean water is a  paramount  issue as with other states. Conservation and reclamation  of resources keeps toxic materials from entering the environment. My Water reclaiming system reuses the water I use for wet sanding while the by-product is captured through a multi  filter medium . This ensures nothing will be going down the 

In Vermont clean water is a  paramount  issue as with other states. Conservation and reclamation  of resources keeps toxic materials from entering the environment. My Water reclaiming system reuses the water I use for wet sanding while the by-product is captured through a multi  filter medium . This ensures nothing will be going down the drain and into the ground or sewer systems. While I still enjoy being outside during the warmer months to do my initial washing and prep work, I still keep the heavy sanding  work inside in my containment wash booth. Also recycling these sailboats in many cases keeps them out of the landfills and on the water for many more years to come. 

Keep em' Sailing

These Iconic and colorful sailboats have been around for over 60 years putting wet smiles on both young and old alike.  Every Sunfish has a story and my restorations rekindle many lost memories of sailing adventures in just about every body of water world wide. As a kid I was fortunate to have learned how to sail a sunfish in Montego Bay,

These Iconic and colorful sailboats have been around for over 60 years putting wet smiles on both young and old alike.  Every Sunfish has a story and my restorations rekindle many lost memories of sailing adventures in just about every body of water world wide. As a kid I was fortunate to have learned how to sail a sunfish in Montego Bay, Jamaica and I have been "hooked" ever since.  I travel all over  New England hand picking the best hulls for restorations to ensure I turn out the best possible restored turnkey Sunfish Sailboats available so all you have to do is sail away!  

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Is a Sunfish a Good Sailboat?

If you were to look up one of the most popular sailboats of all time, the Sunfish is right up there. But is a Sunfish a good sailboat?

There is a strong debate about whether or not the Sunfish is even worth your time sailing. So what made a Sunfish a popular sailboat?

The Sunfish has had a low price point and is easily portable for over fifty years. It is very easy to set up, has decent speed with the right wind, and allows you to beach it. It is great for beginners, but experienced sailors will love the simplicity of it.

As with all sailboats, there are definitely some negatives to owning a Sunfish. For example, the low freeboard means you are going to be extremely wet in just mild conditions. Since this is considered a dinghy, you will be responsible for every little movement that this sailboat is going to take.

According to experienced sailors, you have to find out what works best for you and your sailing goals. The Sunfish can either be a terrific experience for individuals that want a taste on the water or an annoyance if they are more experienced in sailing.

Table of contents

‍ Pros and Cons to a Sunfish Sailboat

There is a reason that the Sunfish is still popular after fifty years. The boat is designed for day sailing and to be active, so casual cruising is likely not going to happen too often.

With that being said, you should really count on being by yourself. The Sunfish was designed for one person handling the reins, so more than one person would make things difficult to near impossible.

• Easy to put together and sail
• Essentially only one of a few car-top sailboats out there
• Takes off fast with the right winds
• You can park it right on the beach
• Easy to find this boat and very affordable no matter the condition
• Only one or two people max can fit
• Three-foot draft means you are very close to the water, so prepare to be wet
• Not fast like other dinghies
• Can easily capsize, whether you are begin or not

Setting Up Your Sunfish

When putting together your Sunfish, it takes roughly 10 minutes until you are ready to hit the water. The mast does not require special rigging to put together since it is an unsupported one.

There are only a few car-top sailboats out there, meaning you can travel with this sailboat strapped to the top of your car. Since the boat is just under 14 feet and weighs about 120 pounds, it is easy to move wherever you see fit.

Once you have transported it, putting it together does not require special knowledge. If you watched someone else do it in person or online, you can have the method down with a few tries. The rigging does not require any fancy knots, so do not worry if you do not know how to tie a great knot.

Responsive Sailboat

The Sunfish is very responsive to wind changes, making it easy to get a feel for sailing. However, it is not as fast as other dinghies like a Laser .

This boat’s design is unique in that you must pay attention to how you are sitting and controlling the mast. This is not a boat to be having a casual conversation on, so being aware of what you are doing is necessary.

When conditions are somewhat calm, you do not want to tighten down the main sheet. Instead, you should have one hand on the sheet and one on the tiller while moving your weight side to side.

A gust of wind will greatly change your comfort if you are not prepared. If you are not careful, you can easily capsize the boat. Luckily, it can be easy to flip back over in shallow waters.

Finding a Sunfish

You can find a new Sunfish for just under $5,000, making it affordable to fit any budget. Furthermore, you can potentially find them significantly cheaper depending on the year and condition for just a few hundred dollars. Replacement parts can easily be found online if you find a Sunfish needing a few things.

The reason these boats are priced so low is that they fit one category of sailing, which is day sailing, and only allow for one individual to navigate. You are also going to get wet, no matter what you do.

Keep in mind that it is meant for sailors just getting their feet wet in sailing. If you have experience, then this is great, but it is meant to be a starter sailboat for most individuals.

Great Stability

The Sunfish has had some slight variations over the years to its look, but the design has ultimately been the same. Its rugged hull has stood up to the wear and tear amongst the harshest conditions, which is why you can find these same boats 20 or 30 years later and still see that they are in great condition.

These boats have stood the test of time and are even considered unsinkable. The hollow body, with its sleek fiberglass hull, makes it one of the more attractive dinghies out there.

You can rest assured that the stability will be there when you need it, as long as you have some sort of experience handling a dinghy in tougher waters. The daggerboard keel is a great advantage to righting the sailboat in the event that it does capsize, which is something that does happen to smaller boats or even racing ones.

Exciting Fun for a Day Out at Sea

Since the Sunfish is just under 14 feet long, this means there is limited space to have an additional companion while sailing. Even though it has a smaller cockpit some people might be able to fit two on board, but the boat’s design is geared towards one person.

This is perfect for individuals that want to have peace and quiet while sailing, but you will need to be engaged the entire time. There will be many aspects that you need to pay attention to, so this is really not meant for more than one person.

What is a Sunfish?

The Sunfish was designed to hit lakes or calmer bodies of water back in 1952. However, it quickly was used in sailing for those that were adventurous or able to handle the rougher conditions that the sea brings.

In 1995, this boat was regarded as one of the most popular fiberglass boats ever sold. At that time, they had sold roughly a quarter million worldwide and continue to sell tons to this day.

This boat is known for its stability, low draft, and easy to put together to have a great time sailing in a pinch. While there are some additional features that you can buy to upgrade the experience while sailing, this boat is great to learn the basics of sailing without spending a ton of money to do so.

No matter what your experience level is, the Sunfish can be learned within a day of simple trial and error. If you happen to be near an area that offers sailing lessons, this would be a good opportunity to learn the basics without worrying about larger sailboats to control.

An Excellent Choice to Learn the Basics

The Sunfish is an excellent option for sailors that want to stow away their boats or to take out on a nice day for the weekend. The appeal of taking it down and easily transporting it makes it a great option for many that want to experience the water.

In the right winds, this is an excellent boat to have some fun on the water. If you know the basics of sailing or want to experience it for the first time, the Sunfish is your best bet.

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Small Boat Restoration

Tuesday, january 30, 2018, sunfish rudder conversion.

21 comments:

Found you today as I pondered the fate of a pair of Sunfish hulls. Rigging is gone, so I thought about using a kite to pull instead. Plenty of kiteboarders out here moving gear. Also considered modifying to be a stand up paddle board........We'll see! Nice work, well documented. I appreciate your details. Would love to see more photos of the boat in action.

Clark, Great post! I'm looking to replace my rudder assembly with the newer style using your guidance here. I'd also love to repaint the hull. Painting is my least favorite chore, though. What paint do you recommend? My hull is white all around, with the blue and red stripe on the bow. Thanks!

Did you keep the old parts? Swany Dswanwick at mtsports.com

You're welcome. I prefer Pettit Easypoxy, but also have had luck with Interlux Brightside and Rustoleum Topside

Trying to post again Looking for an old brass pin for the old style rudder Swany Dswanwick at Mtsports.com

Try The Sunfish Forum

Thanks Clark! Great post, with so many helpful details. My 1969 Alcort Sunfish will eventually need a rudder modernization, and I appreciated the run-down.

i have a question, how long would it take for the suspension springs to wear off?

Yury, We've had our new style rudder with the springs since the mid-90's. No signs of the springs wearing out. I have also used "stock" hardware store springs to hold a latch on our boarding ladder (different boat) that rusted completely after a few weeks. Materials matter.

Sorry for the late reply. We've only had one break, after owning old and new boats for 25 years and restoring over 20 boats.

Is the old rudder blade and tiller reused in the new conversion just reshaped? Cost of conversion parts please? Until then, I need to buy the tension bold, any one have one?

The old rudder blade and tiller are not reused. Last I checked the cost of new plastic or wood rudder and parts for a conversion was over $500 USD, if you could find them in stock. Yankee Boating Center used to sell a conversion kit. Used wooden parts are available on ebay and The Sunfish Forum or Craigslist. A complete rudder assembly with tiller runs from $150 on the very low side and up to over $300, plus you need the gudgeon, hump shaped backer plate, inspection port, sealant, hardware etc... You could check The Sunfish Forum or Yahoo Sunfish Sailor for the carriage bolt, but make sure you get the correct one. There is a shorter 4 inch bolt that goes to the Sailfish series boats and wooden Sunfish, and a longer 7+ inch bolt that goes to the fiberglass Sunfish. You could get a similar 7 inch long bronze 1/4-20 carriage bolt from Jamestown Distributors and see if they have a brass wing nut with the same thread pattern (I have yet to find a bronze wing nut to fit). https://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=1937 Good luck, Clark

What blade did you use in jigsaw? Any recommendations? Thanks

We use a blade designed for metal or laminate, they have more teeth than a wood cutting blade. Our advice for the jigsaw, make sure you have a dust mask rated for fiberglass, wear goggles and a long sleeve shirt. Have a small brush handy so you can stop the blade and brush dust away to better see your circle. Tape over the entire area first and draw your circle on the tape. Any marine sealant will work, most hardware stores carry the 3M brand. #8x1 screws should work, buy som 1 1/2 just in case and buy washers and nuts as well. Buy a few extra of each in case you drop one inside the hull and it disappears. You may also want to buy a deep socket and handle that fits the #8 nut, that is the best and easiest way to hold the nut while you tighten it. a regular small socket may not be deep enough as the nut tightens over the screw. Good luck!

Just acquired a 1964 hull. Thank you for posting this thread. Very helpful

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Boa noite! Gostaria muito de construir um. Será que poderia usar compensado de 10mm. Para as laterais ? (Costados) Sou fã desse clássico lindo e elegante... Abração...

In the picture under "picture of some of the parts needed", what is the pin inserted in the rudder that the tension springs connect to called? Also, what is it's length?

We call it a rudder tension spring pin. I'll have to measure it.

How did you seal the deck/hull seam just above the gudgeon? Mine was converted by a previous owner, and has the same gap in the aluminum trim in that spot. Caulk seems to fail and allow water to leak in.

The seam needs adhesive, not sealant. You can inject thickened epoxy into any gaps in the seam. We use a small syringe with Pettit Flexpoxy or TotalBoat THIXO.

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Bailer Assembly

How to tell the difference: The cap thread on the new style bailer is 1-3/16" deep. The cap thread on the old style bailer is 1-5/16" deep.

Sunfish, Auto Bailer (13/16 Inch), 91026

The bailer is mounted in the bottom of the cockpit and automatically drains excess water out of the ..

Sunfish, Bailer Ball w/Seal (Package of 5), 91031

The bailer ball on the Sunfish fits in the bailer housing on the bottom of the boat. It limits water..

Sunfish, Bailer Cap (1-5/16 Inches), 91061

This bailer cap is made for Sunfish.   1-5/16" long Fits most Sunfish model boats bu..

Sunfish, Bailer Cap (13/16 Inch), 91062

This short bailer cap is made for Sunfish.   13/16" in length Fits most Sunfish mode..

Sunfish, Bailer O-Ring (Package of 5), 91164

Sunfish bailer housing o-ring. Sold in 5-pack only Old # 79201..

Sunfish, Bailer Plug (4.5 Inches), 91170

Sunfish bailer plug with white retainer.4.5" long ..

Sunfish, Sunfish Bailer (1-5/16 Inches), 91025

The bailer is mounted in the bottom of the cockpit and drains excess water out of the cockpit. It is..

Sunfish, Sunfish Bailer Housing w/Ball, 91029

Sunfish bailer housing only.Plastic Includes o-ring & float ball Old # 65087..

Buffalo boy reels in record-breaking Oneida Lake sunfish

• Published: Sep. 11, 2024, 7:00 a.m.

Gregory Martin, 5, of Buffalo, caught this 1 lb 13.7 oz pumpkinseed in Oneida Lake in late August. If confirmed, the fish would set a new state record, and possibly a new world record. Hope Pragacz

• Steve Featherstone | [email protected]

Gregory Martin, a five-year-old angler from Buffalo, might have broken both the New York State and world records for Lepomis gibbosus, a type of common sunfish also known as a pumpkinseed.

It happened two weeks ago just outside Spruce Cove Marina on the north shore of Oneida Lake, where Gregory’s aunt, Hope Pragacz, has a cottage. Gregory was fishing from Pragacz’s pontoon boat in 26 feet of water when something took his worm, bending his pole like a piece of licorice.

Pragacz thought at first that Gregory had hooked a walleye. It wouldn’t be the first time.

“Last year he had a kid’s pole and he caught a walleye with it,” said Pragacz. “That kid, from the time he caught the walleye, to the time he ate it at the table—it was unbelievable. Now he calls me all the time to go fishing.”

Gregory was using a new telescoping pole that Pragacz had given him for Christmas when he caught the plump pumpkinseed. But he needed a little help from his dad to keep the tip up. He reeled in the fish and netted it all on his own.

“It seemed like forever, but it was just a few minutes,” said Pragacz. “When I catch a little panfish like that they give you the fight of a life, and you think you’ve got something big on. But it was the biggest thing I’ve ever seen.”

The colorful pumpkinseed had the dimensions of a hubcap. It measured 11 ¾ inches in length. And on Pragacz’s scale it weighed a stunning 1 lb 15 oz.

The current state record for pumpkinseed is tie between a 1 lb 9 oz fish caught in 1994 on Indian Lake; and a 1 lb 9 oz sunny caught on the Black River in 2020. The International Game Fish Association all-tackle world record for pumpkinseed is a 1 lb 8 oz fish from Honeoye Lake in western NY.

Pragacz fishes Oneida Lake five days a week, and she volunteers for the Shane Pinard Future Fishermen’s Foundation . She’s seen more than her share of panfish and knew immediately that this one was special.

Gregory, however, wanted to eat it right away.

“He’s five years old, he doesn’t realize what he really did,” Pragacz said. “He wanted to go and cut it up and fillet it and eat it, is it what he really wanted to do. Because he loves to fish, and that was his memory of last year with the walleye.”

Pragacz instead stuck the primordial pumpkinseed in her freezer and later took it to Buck & Bolts hardware store down the road in Blossvale. On the store’s certified scale the fish weighed 1 lb 13.7 oz. Pragacz sent the paperwork to DEC and is waiting to hear back.

So if you see Gregory, dear reader, please don’t tell him that his giant sunfish is still sitting in Aunt Hope’s freezer, and that she’s planning to get it mounted for him as a Christmas present.

In the meantime, we’ll keep you updated on DEC’s decision regarding the state record.

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Steve Featherstone covers the outdoors for The Post-Standard, syracuse.com and NYUP.com . Contact him at [email protected] or on Twitter @featheroutdoors . You can also follow along with all of our outdoors content at newyorkupstate.com/outdoors/ or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/upstatenyoutdoors .

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