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Sunfish Sail Dinghy Reborn

• By Chad Gillis
• Updated: April 27, 2021

The Sunfish. For thousands of sailors around the world, it’s an iconic name that conjures memories of beautiful beaches, colorful sails, whipping winds and a freedom that only comes from such a simple small craft. Many sailors have centered their love for the sport on a Sunfish—at summer camps in the lakes of the Midwest, along coastal stretches of both American coasts, and on pretty much any stretch of water between. First offered as a DIY wood kit in the 1950s, the Sunfish has been a staple of the recreational sailing and racing scenes for decades as a relatively inexpensive one‑design dinghy.

The ubiquitous and ­colorful singlehander has stood the test of time, but today it is at a performance crossroads. Technology has long surpassed the boat’s one-design ­limitations, and new generations of sailors are now drawn to modern dinghy classes with better equipment. But what if the Sunfish were reimagined with modern blades and a more efficient sail? There are several movements afoot to do just that, with innovations driven by Sunfish fanatics taking development matters into their own hands.

Leading one charge in the sail-development department is Kevin Farrar, of Farrar Sails in New London, Connecticut. He’s now manufacturing a ­non-class-legal Sunfish sail, one that he says is much faster than the triangular rag of yesteryear. The boom is also shorter on this rig, yet the sail area is increased by about 8 square feet.

“It’s clearly a significant change,” Farrar says. He’s been working his version of the Sunfish sail for several years. “The concept is to make something that’s going to make the boat appeal to 16-year-olds out there. This is a modern design, and it really works.”

His sails are getting faster too, generation by generation, as he makes tweaks that have also made the classic boat appear more modern. “Off the wind, [the latest generation is] radically faster than even what we were making in the second generation of sails,” Farrar says. “[The boats] are planing much faster. I’m not sure if they’re planing upwind quite yet, but it has taken [the Sunfish] a step beyond what the Laser is.”

Them might be fighting words. The Laser has long been the standard singlehanded dinghy, and it’s one of the most popular racing classes on the planet, but Farrar hopes his sail will help breathe new life into Sunfish sailing, perhaps even draw a new generation to what seems to be a declining class.

“It’s the basic lateen rig except that the sail area is 83 square feet, and the top of the sail is parallel to the waterline. You’re getting a lot more of the sail up and in better air,” Farrar says. “The boom has been shortened to about 10 feet.”

All equipment used in official Sunfish-class racing must have been offered by the builder at some point in the boat’s life cycle. And while the Sunfish’s modern blades are a big step up from the wooden blades of the early days, there’s still plenty of room for improvement. And that’s where Kent Misegades comes into the story. At his AeroSouth facilities, in Seven Lakes, North Carolina, he’s stamping out some pretty slick-looking foils for his Sunfish. He has a vertical rudder that has minimal weather helm, even in stronger winds. The current class-approved rudder is notorious for having strong weather helm when the wind pipes above 15 knots. Misegades says his rudder is better and faster (especially upwind), and it costs about the same as the Sunfish-class-supplied rudder. “I understand the one-design concept,” he says. “It’s an even playing field, so it really does come down to a comparison of skills. I understand it, but that, of course, kills innovation, so there are two sides to it.”

Misegades said he isn’t yet targeting the class ­association or asking racers to adopt his new daggerboard and ­rudder designs. He knows that most Sunfish owners don’t race, but no good sailor would ever argue against better handling. “I knew from the outset that any change of rules for the class is pretty involved, for good reason,” he says, “so, I never went about trying to convince the class to adopt them. We’ve never really gone to class ­racing, but something that’s intrigued me is there’s been discussion of a new rudder, and it’s opened their eyes to potentially get gear from a third party.”

Misegades says his ­rudder dramatically improves the Sunfish’s notorious weather helm, but he had other goals in mind during the design process. “The weather helm wasn’t my primary goal; it was mainly to reduce drag to improve pointing and speed,” he says. “I went through a lot of different plans; hundreds of iterations happened.

“It all comes down to the angle of the rudder, and in all angles, this rudder really is superior,” Misegades ­continues. “But there is one drawback to this vertical rudder in that it doesn’t scull. The Sunfish ­rudder does do that well.”

Misegades’ rudder is also prone to stalling during a tack if the helmsperson is not careful. “This vertical narrow rudder will whip the boat around, but it’s not nearly as ­effective as the standard rudder,” Misegades says.

AeroSouth’s foils are ­comparable in price to what class builders offer today. The wood-and-carbon version of the daggerboard is $350, which is less than the official class boar. AeroSouth’s rudder is $300.

The International Sunfish Class Association is likely to be slow in adopting this new gear, however. Perhaps for good reason. Larry Suter, who has raced Sunfish in seven different decades, has been pushing the class to set the stock rudder to 90 degrees. Doing so would be at least one step forward, he says. “If you go out in a Sunfish in 14 or 15 knots of wind, and if you feel the pull on the tiller and the pull on the mainsheet, it’s the same force,” Suter explains. “[The 90-degree rudder angle] really makes the boat a nice boat to sail. It doesn’t have the weather helm, and you don’t have to fight it.”

Lynne Randall, Florida Peninsula region representative for the Sunfish Class, is familiar with the new sails and blades being developed outside the manufacturer’s specs, and she is cognizant that the class association can’t simply change equipment every time a new piece of gear comes to market.

“It’s a really strong one-design group around here, so you have to keep the boat [setup in a way that’s] approved by the class,” Randall says. “These changes are interesting and fun, and some people are trying them out, but as far as one-design racing goes, you can’t do it.”

Randall says that the new gear will require investigation, testing, adopting and tweaking before it gets anywhere near approval under the class regulations. Drawing new sailors to an old class is an exciting idea, but so too is retaining the sailors who make up the bulk of the racing fleet

“Of course we want to grow the class, and it’s one of those things that evolves,” Randall says. “But if you want to sail ­recreationally, there are ways to try different things.”

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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.

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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.

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• Even more simple to rig
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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.

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Thumbnail Filmstrip of Sunfish Recreational Version Images

Sku: lpsf11000 sunfish recreational version.

• Description

Made by Laser Performance

The Sunfish sailboat combines easy rigging and manageability for a comfortable and hassle free sailing experience. This is the sailboat loved by all. Designed in 1952, the Sunfish is still a favorite with all ages.

With the easy to control and rig triangular lateen sail, the Sunfish is the easiest boat to access the joy of sailing. Find these small sailboats on lakes and bays all over the country in addition to racing fleets all over the world. The single-sail Sunfish is praised for it's simple to rig set up, while it's size and weight make it easy to car top or trailer. The Sunfish is built to last and provide years of worry free enjoyment with minimal maintenance required.

• Sunfish Recreational Sail w/ Window
• Recreational Spar Set
• Ratcheting Mainsheet Block
• Standard Line Pack
• Fiberglass Rudder
• Fiberglass Daggerboard
• Aluminum Tiller and Extension
• Ice Blue Sunfish Hull
• Draft: 2'11"
• Sail Area: 75 Square Feet
• Hull Weight: 120 lbs

Due to the size of this item, shipping will need to be quoted on a case by case basis. Please contact us directly at (631) 264-0005 for a shipping quote.

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• 2024+ Championships
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Upcoming Event Schedule

WQ= World Qualifier  I=Invitational  O=Open

CLICK HERE FOR MONTHLY REGATTA CALENDAR

CLICK HERE for regional series REGIONAL SERIES

• Saturday, July 20
• Sodus Pt, NY">NY Regional #1Centrals on Sodus Annual Regatta (WQ) Sodus Bay Jr Sailing Association, Sodus Pt, NY
• Lafayette Sailing Club Brookston, IN"> Lafayette Saturday Series (O) Brookston, IN
• 1001 N Shore Dr, Crystal, MI">2024 Crystal Lake Summer Series (O) Crystal Lake YC, MI
• 8061 Portage Point Dr, Onekama, MI">2024 Portage Lake Regatta (O) Portage Lake Yacht Club, MI CANCELLED
• Southold Yacht Club, NY">Longest Sunfish Race Around Shelter Island (O) Southold Yacht Club, NY
• Wequaquet Lake Yacht Club, MA">New England Regional #2 / Wequaquet Regatta (WQ) Wequaquet Lake Yacht Club, MA
• Cave Run Sailing Association, Jacobson Park, Lexington, KY">Cave Run Youth Sailing Academy (O) Cave Run Sailing Assoc., Lexington, KY
• Sunday, July 21
• Charlevoix Yacht Club, 220 Ferry Avenue, Charlevoix, MI">Charlevoix Sunday Series (O) Charlevoix, MI
• Hueston Woods State Park College Corner, OH">2024 Hueston Woods Sunday Race Series (O) Hueston Sailing Assoc., OH
• Edgewood Yacht Club, RI">EYC Summer Sunfish Series (O) Edgewood Yacht Club, RI
• Lake Bluff Yacht Club">Lake Bluff Sunfish Series (O) Lake Bluff, MI
• Clark Lake Yacht Club 1860 Eagle Point Rd, Clarklake, MI 49234">Clark Lake Sunday Series (O) Clarklake, MI
• Crooked Lake Yacht Club, 3708 US Hwy 31, Oden, MI">Crooked Lake Sunday Racing Series (O) Oden, MI

Welcome to the Sunfish Class Website!

Sunfish are incredibly popular single-handed sailboats. Raced and cruised in over 20 countries, this flexible, tunable rig makes it suited to a diverse range of sailors.Few classes have women, youth and masters regularly finishing in the top 10 (or winning!) national and World Championships.  Since the boat has changed little over the years, you don’t need a brand-new Sunfish to start racing. While new boats are reasonably priced, used boats are plentiful, and with perhaps a new sail you are ready to join the fun!

 JOIN TODAY - MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

Windward Leg Newsletters

Latest Edition MAY 2024 English and Spanish

CLICK on Graphic to check out our past issues of the Windward Leg going back to 1979! 

Have a topic for a future issue?  Please contact the Windward Leg Editor for submission. 

International Sunfish Class Association

8070 Willow Tree Way, Alpharetta, Georgia 30005

[email protected]   +1 404-451-7743