Minifish II Information, Review, Specs

The Minifish II began production in 1971, emerging from the AMF Alcort division. AMF had acquired Alcort in 1969, a company already well-known for its iconic small sailboats like the Sunfish and Sailfish. The design philosophy behind the Minifish II, attributed to AMF Alcort itself, aimed to offer a scaled-down, easily manageable sailboat. Notably, the Minifish II's hull is identical to that of the original Minifish, but it distinguishes itself by featuring an unstayed cat rig, a design choice that simplifies setup and sailing. This rigging type means the mast is not supported by standing wires, contributing to its ease of use. Some variations included a kit for converting the Minifish II to this unstayed cat rig configuration.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a light and nimble dinghy, the Minifish II is known for its straightforward sailing characteristics, making it particularly suitable for new sailors or those looking for a relaxed experience. With a reported sail area of 60 square feet and a length overall of just under 12 feet, it is designed for recreational use in lighter breezes. The cat rig, also known as an una rig, simplifies sail handling as there is only one sail and no complex standing rigging. Equipped with a daggerboard, the Minifish II offers versatility, allowing sailors to adjust its draft for varying conditions or to completely retract it for beaching. Its lightweight fiberglass hull (83 lbs displacement) ensures easy portability and quick response to wind shifts, characteristic of small, performance-oriented dinghies. Owners have described it as a "super sunfish" in terms of rigging, indicating a similar user-friendly experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size of 11.75 feet in length and a beam of 3.83 feet, the Minifish II is inherently a daysailer with a minimalist layout focused on the open cockpit. The design prioritizes sailing functionality over extensive interior accommodations. The cockpit provides seating for one or two individuals, typical for a boat of this class. The hull and deck are constructed from solid fiberglass, offering durability suitable for a recreational dinghy. While there are no enclosed cabins or significant storage areas in the traditional sense, the open design allows for easy boarding and exit, and any storage would be limited to small, open compartments within the cockpit or under the deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Minifish II often highlight its simplicity and ease of use as primary strengths. Many appreciate its suitability as a beginner boat, with some having owned their Minifish II since buying it new in the 1970s. Its light weight makes it easy to transport and launch, and the unstayed cat rig contributes to a quick setup time. The Minifish II is frequently compared to the more ubiquitous Sunfish, often noted for being a slightly smaller, scaled-down version that still delivers a fun sailing experience. Common discussions among owners revolve around maintenance, such as patching hull damage or finding replacement sails and rigging parts, indicating a dedicated community that keeps these classic dinghies sailing. Some owners suggest that Sunfish spars and sails can be adapted for the Minifish II, offering a solution for obtaining replacement parts.