Puffer (Amf) Information, Review, Specs

Production of the AMF Puffer commenced in 1972, under the stewardship of AMF Alcort. The Puffer's design, attributed to Fred Scott, emerged during a period when AMF had acquired Alcort in 1969, a company renowned for revolutionizing recreational sailing with iconic models like the Sunfish. While specific design philosophies for the Puffer are not extensively documented, it is clear that the model upheld Alcort's broader ethos of creating simple, intuitive, and low-maintenance boats. This focus on accessibility, inherited from Alcort's foundational designs, ensured the Puffer was approachable for beginners while still offering an engaging experience for more seasoned sailors. The Puffer, like other Alcort-derived designs under AMF, benefited from streamlined fiberglass construction, a pivotal transition that began for Alcort in 1959 with the Super Sailfish, allowing for widespread production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The AMF Puffer, measuring just over 12 feet in length, is primarily designed as an enjoyable and forgiving daysailer. Owners frequently describe the Puffer as a boat that is "super easy once you get the hang of it," making it an excellent platform for learning the fundamentals of sailing. While it may exhibit "little primary stability," meaning it feels a bit tender initially, it is noted for having a "large reserve of secondary stability," allowing it to stand up to wind once heeled over.

Its fractional sloop rig, combined with a lightweight fiberglass hull and daggerboard, contributes to its nimble handling. Despite its small size, some owners have found it to be "pretty quick with the jib up." However, its low freeboard means that sailing into a moderate chop can result in a "fairly wet" experience. Overall, the Puffer offers responsive handling and a lively feel, making it a "fun to daysail" boat.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 12.5-foot daggerboard dinghy, the AMF Puffer features a minimalist, open-cockpit layout designed for daysailing rather than extended cruising. The cockpit is described as "roomy" and capable of comfortably accommodating a small crew. There is some "bench room forward" for passengers, enhancing its suitability for short excursions with company. Given its compact size, traditional interior accommodations like a cabin or significant headroom are absent. One owner's humorous remark about "no room for beer unless it was already in your gut" aptly summarizes the Puffer's focus on essential sailing functionality over creature comforts. The design prioritizes ease of use and open-air enjoyment, consistent with its role as a recreational dinghy.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the AMF Puffer generally praise its attributes as a simple, versatile, and fun sailboat, particularly for entry-level sailors. Its ease of handling and forgiving nature are frequently cited as major strengths, making it an ideal choice for those looking to learn to sail. Many appreciate its "surprisingly quick" performance when properly rigged with a jib, offering a rewarding experience for its size.

However, common weaknesses noted by owners include its tendency to be a "fairly wet" boat when sailing in choppy conditions due to its low freeboard. A recurring maintenance concern highlighted in owner forums is the potential for the hull to take on water, often attributed to leaks between the hull and the liner, which can originate from areas like the daggerboard slot or cracks in the cockpit bottom. Despite these points, the Puffer's durability and enduring appeal as a recreational dinghy are widely recognized, fostering a community of enthusiasts who enjoy its straightforward sailing experience.