Starfish Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Starfish in 1969 marked a significant offering from Fillip Manufacturing Co., a company founded by John P. Fillip, who was known for his dedication to producing practical and enjoyable fiberglass sailing dinghies. Fillip's design philosophy centered on creating functional and user-friendly craft suitable for day sailing and general leisure, an ethos clearly reflected in the Starfish's straightforward construction and accessible performance. The boat's production spanned over three decades, concluding in 2005 when Fillip Manufacturing Co. ceased operations.

The Starfish shares a strong resemblance to the Alcort Sunfish, a design noted for its very flat, board-like hull and un-stayed lateen sail. The Sunfish itself was developed with the goal of creating small, accessible sailboats. This shared design approach suggests that the Starfish was conceived as a nimble and easy-to-manage craft, ideal for beginners and casual sailors alike. While specific design variations like "MkI" or "MkII" are not widely documented for the Starfish, the commonality of its rudder, daggerboard, and sail with those of the Sunfish indicates a consistent design and often interchangeable parts among owners.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a lightweight sailing dinghy with a displacement of just 130 pounds, the Starfish is designed for responsiveness and ease of maneuverability. Its lateen rig, characterized by a single sail attached to a mast and a boom that extends forward of the mast, provides a simple yet effective propulsion system. The daggerboard allows for adjustable draft, giving sailors control over the boat's lateral resistance; it can be fully retracted for shallow water sailing or beaching, and lowered for upwind performance. The hull, often described as board-like, suggests that the Starfish, much like its Sunfish counterpart, can be quite exhilarating in a breeze, potentially offering a planing experience for a skilled sailor. Its simple setup and direct handling make it a forgiving boat for newcomers while still providing engaging sailing for more experienced enthusiasts in appropriate conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as a small sailing dinghy, the Starfish does not feature an enclosed cabin or "interior" in the traditional sense. Instead, its layout focuses on a functional and open cockpit area designed for a single sailor or occasionally two smaller individuals. The flat, wide nature of the hull provides a stable platform, and the open cockpit allows for ample space to manage the lateen rig. There are typically no permanent seats, with sailors often sitting directly on the deck or gunwales to balance the boat. Storage would be minimal, perhaps limited to small dry bags or compartments integrated into the hull for personal items. The emphasis is on a minimalist, direct connection with the water and the wind, prioritizing simplicity and ease of use over comfort amenities common in larger vessels.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Starfish often appreciate its straightforward design and the accessible sailing experience it provides. The enduring presence of these boats, many of which were built between 1969 and 2005, speaks to their robust fiberglass construction and ease of maintenance. A notable advantage frequently cited by owners is the interchangeability of key components, such as the rudder, daggerboard, and sail, with those of the widely available Alcort Sunfish, simplifying maintenance and sourcing of parts. This cross-compatibility helps to keep the Starfish an active and enjoyable boat for many years beyond its production run. While specific forums or dedicated owner review sites are not prominent, the continued discussion among enthusiasts about parts and historical information underscores a loyal following who value the Starfish for its practical utility and the pure joy of simple sailing.