Sailfish (Alcort) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Alcort Sailfish stems from the founders' ambition to ensure year-round employment for their burgeoning iceboat business in Waterbury, Connecticut. Production of the Sailfish commenced in June 1945. Initially, these boats were crafted from wood, reflecting Alcort's early manufacturing ethos which prioritized simplicity and the option for do-it-yourself kits. The design was notably minimalist, featuring a flat, surfboard-like hull without a traditional cockpit, intended for a "sit-upon" sailing posture. This innovative approach allowed for both complete boat sales and kit forms for home assembly. The Sailfish gained significant national prominence following a 1949 Life Magazine article, which famously dubbed it the "World's Wettest, Sportiest Boat," dramatically increasing its demand and solidifying Alcort's place in the marine industry.

Throughout its production run, the original Sailfish, measuring 11 feet 7.5 inches in length, maintained its core wooden construction and lateen rig. Alcort's design philosophy centered on intuitive handling and low maintenance, appealing to both beginners and experienced enthusiasts seeking a no-fuss sailing experience. While the wooden Sailfish was phased out in 1962, its larger, slightly modified wooden counterpart, the Super Sailfish (around 13 feet 7 inches long), briefly continued before Alcort fully embraced fiberglass construction for models like the Super Sailfish MkII and the hugely successful Sunfish in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alcort Sailfish, with its compact length overall of just under 11.7 feet and remarkably light displacement of 82 pounds, was designed for agile and spirited performance. Its flat, board-like hull and shallow draft of merely 0.33 feet (with the daggerboard up) to 2.33 feet (with it down) contribute to its characteristic handling. The distinctive low-aspect lateen sail, spanning 65 square feet, is fundamental to its sailing dynamics. Sailors experience the Sailfish as a responsive and nimble craft, quick to accelerate, particularly in light to moderate breezes. Its design, famously described as "wet" and "sporty," means sailors are in close contact with the water, offering an engaging and immediate connection to the sailing experience. Given its small size and open nature, it prioritizes direct feedback and simple maneuverability over the stability and complex handling of larger keelboats.

Accommodations and Layout

True to its designation as a "surfboard-like vessel," the Alcort Sailfish offers no traditional accommodations or interior layout in the conventional sense. The design intentionally lacks a cockpit, instead featuring an open deck where the sailor assumes a "sit-upon" sailing posture. This minimalist approach underscores its primary purpose as a simple, recreational day sailer rather than a cruising boat. There is no enclosed cabin, no headroom to speak of, and consequently, no galley, berths, or head. The construction of the hull and deck primarily utilized fiberglass with a plywood core, ensuring a lightweight yet robust structure suitable for its intended use. Storage is limited to small compartments or simply stowing gear on deck, while ventilation is naturally abundant due to its completely open design. The Sailfish's simplicity is a core part of its appeal, allowing for easy launching, retrieval, and maintenance.