Pirateer 13 (Chrysler) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pirateer 13 began its production run in 1974, emerging from Chrysler Corporation's marine division, which had significantly expanded its sailboat offerings throughout the 1970s. The vessel was designed by the collaborative efforts of Rod Macalpine-Downey and Dick Gibbs. During this era, Chrysler Marine, with its primary manufacturing facility in Plano, Texas, was known for producing versatile and accessible boats, from nimble day-sailors to larger trailerable cruisers. Their design philosophy focused on creating reliable and enjoyable vessels for family recreation, a ethos that the Pirateer 13 perfectly encapsulated. Chrysler Marine's direct involvement in boat building, which began in earnest in 1957 following their long history of supplying marine engines, concluded in 1980 when the parent company divested its marine-related subsidiaries due to financial difficulties.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Measuring just 13 feet in length overall with a 12.17-foot waterline, the Pirateer 13 is a lightweight vessel, displacing only 300 pounds. Its 90 square feet of reported sail area, combined with a fractional sloop rig, suggests a sprightly performance in lighter air conditions, characteristic of a small day-sailor. The boat's fiberglass hull and daggerboard keel contribute to its versatility; the daggerboard allows for a minimum draft of only 0.71 feet for easy launching and shallow water exploration, while it can be extended to 3.33 feet to improve upwind performance and stability. With a hull speed calculated at 4.67 knots, it is designed for enjoyable, responsive sailing. Owners generally find the Pirateer 13 to be a decent boat, often cited as a good platform for learning the basics of sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 13-foot dinghy, the Chrysler Pirateer 13 features an open cockpit layout, typical for a boat of its size and purpose, meaning it does not offer any enclosed accommodations or standing headroom. The design prioritizes sailing functionality and ease of use over extensive creature comforts. One notable and often discussed design characteristic is the absence of scuppers in the cockpit, meaning any water accumulation, such as from rain or spray, would drain into the hull, necessitating manual bailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Chrysler Pirateer 13 generally praise its suitability as a learning boat, often describing it as a good, safe vessel for beginners. Many appreciate its simplicity and the fun it offers for recreational sailing. However, a frequently mentioned design quirk is the lack of self-draining scuppers, which means water entering the cockpit drains into the bilge, requiring owners to manage water manually. Despite these minor eccentricities, the Pirateer 13 maintains a dedicated community of owners who appreciate its straightforward nature and its role in introducing many to the joys of sailing.