Specifications for the 1971 AMF Alcort Sunfish. 139 pounds was a target, hull weights were not strictly monitored yet but they would be soon, as One Design racing grew in popularity and the US Sunfish Class Association grew. The USSCA worked with the manufacturer to improve quality control, maintain the "one design" nature of the Sunfish and implement changes along the way. On this drawing we like to point out that the straight edge of the wooden daggerboard was aft, and that was emphasized in some literature as well. We like it that way because if we hit an underwater obstacle the daggerboard has a chance to rise up over it. Racers tend to run it the other way, with bungee tension, but they are not coming and going off the beach, or sailing in the shoal as much as we do. Also note the 5 panel sail, that would change in the 70s to a 6 panel sail, wide fabric got harder to find and the 6 panel cut was easier to cut into a better aerodynamic shape. The bronze rudder assembly with spoon tip blade and spoon tip daggerboard would be replaced in late 1971 with the new style pop up rudder with pointy blade and a cut down daggerboard, the lower forward edge got angled back and cut straight, it was designed for the Minifish and then used on the Sunfish, not sure why. Racers didn't like it, but that's another story. 1971-2 the cockpit storage cubby appeared also
Note that the Racing Crew was 1-2 people, Doubles racing used to be popular, Team Racing as well. Price with sail, $580! We could sell that boat, in decent shape with a new sail, for $1800 in NW Florida all day.
July 2019 Laser Performance price with sail $4,629.85. Still built new and still a great deal!
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. Designed as the ultimate beach craft, 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 favorite beach for family fun.
The Sunfish from LP features:
·Fiberglass hull, now 129 pounds and 1 inch wider with molded non-skid around the cockpit. Rolled deck edge is more comfortable and makes great hand holds.
·Fiberglass foils vs wood. Wooden blades are still available and Class Legal
·Aluminum spars, pretty much maintenance free, rinse them and the sail and let dry
·Line kit
·Class legal sail
·Kick-up rudder system
·Self-bailing cockpit
·Storage compartment in the cockpit
Drop us a note if you want to order one, find a local dealer or contact the current manufacturer Laser Performance.
Didn't mean to turn this into a sales pitch, but these are fun boats! One stick, one string, great way to get some sun and play on the water.
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