Sundance 13 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Sundance 13 commenced in 1973, under the manufacturing umbrella of El Mar Boat Co.. The company, based in Roseville, Michigan, specialized in fiberglass monohull sailboats, a material choice that was gaining significant traction in the marine industry during the mid-1970s due to its durability and relative ease of manufacturing. The Sundance 13 was designed by maritime architect E. A. Brown, who is also associated with other models in the Sundance series, such as the Sundance 20. As a centerboard dinghy, its design reflects a focus on versatility, allowing for shallow-water access with its minimal draft, while the centerboard provides enhanced performance when lowered. El Mar Boat Co.'s manufacturing philosophy centered on producing functional cruising sailboats, a principle that, for the Sundance 13, translated into a durable and user-friendly daysailer.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sundance 13 is characterized as a fractional sloop, featuring a reported sail area of 95.0 square feet. With a length overall of 12.25 feet and a beam of 5.0 feet, coupled with a light displacement of just 205 pounds, it is designed for nimble performance. As a centerboard dinghy, it offers a versatile draft ranging from a mere 0.42 feet with the board up to 3.5 feet when fully deployed, enabling both easy beaching and improved upwind performance. Its lightweight nature and fractional sloop rig suggest a boat that is quick to respond, easily driven in light breezes, and relatively simple to handle for single-handed sailing or with a small crew. The fiberglass hull and deck materials ensure a robust yet low-maintenance vessel suitable for frequent use.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Sundance 13 is fundamentally an open-cockpit daysailer rather than a boat with extensive accommodations. With a length overall of just over 12 feet, it would typically feature a straightforward layout prioritizing sailing functionality and seating space for a small crew. Interior headroom is not applicable in the traditional sense, as any enclosed space would be minimal, likely limited to a small storage locker or cuddy for stowing gear. The emphasis of the design would be on the cockpit area, providing comfortable seating and ergonomic placement for tiller and sheets, consistent with its purpose as a recreational dinghy for short excursions.

Owner's Perspectives

While detailed, synthesized owner reviews for the Sundance 13 are not extensively documented in readily available sources, the enduring appeal of El Mar Boat Co.'s models is evidenced by the continued presence of an active "El Mar Boat Company Sailboats" Facebook Group. This online community serves as a testament to the lasting nature and utilitarian design of these vessels, where owners connect and share information. The occasional appearance of Sundance 13 models in the used boat market further indicates that these small, fiberglass daysailers continue to provide a practical and enjoyable entry point into sailing for enthusiasts.