Super Satellite Information, Review, Specs

Henry R. McCune, Shipbuilders, founded by the visionary Henry "Hank" McCune, an actor turned boat builder, was at the forefront of the fiberglass revolution in the early 1960s, operating out of the Long Beach, California area. McCune's yard became one of the earliest proponents and builders of fiberglass boats in the United States, championing the material for its durability and low maintenance. The Super Satellite, with its production beginning in 1960, was part of this initial wave, showcasing McCune's commitment to modern composite construction even in smaller, more recreational designs.

History and Design

The Super Satellite emerged at a pivotal moment in American boat building, as fiberglass began to challenge traditional wooden construction. Introduced in 1960, the Super Satellite was designed by Ted Carpentier, a respected naval architect. While Henry R. McCune himself designed several larger cruising and racing boats, the Super Satellite demonstrates his willingness to collaborate with talented designers to expand his company's offerings. The builder, Henry R. McCune, Shipbuilders, was dedicated to embracing fiberglass as a revolutionary medium, lauded for its durability and efficiency. This ethos of modern construction meant that the Super Satellite, from its inception, benefited from the advantages of a strong, low-maintenance hull. The Super Satellite was also built by Coronado Yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact 14-foot monohull with a fractional sloop rig and a reported sail area of 130 square feet, the Super Satellite is designed for lively performance and straightforward handling. Its lightweight displacement of 240 pounds contributes to its agility and responsiveness on the water. The most defining characteristic of its underwater profile is the centerboard keel, which allows for a variable draft from a mere 0.33 feet with the board up to 3.5 feet with it fully extended. This feature makes the Super Satellite exceptionally versatile, enabling shallow water access and easy beaching, while the deeper draft provides improved upwind performance and stability when sailing. Owners generally find the Super Satellite to be a nimble and engaging boat, well-suited for day sailing and recreational racing. Its lightweight nature suggests it would be quick to respond to puffs and would offer an exhilarating ride in moderate conditions, though like most small dinghies, it would require active crew input in stronger winds.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact 14-foot length, the Super Satellite offers a very simple and open layout, characteristic of a day sailor. There are no enclosed accommodations, as the primary focus is on the open cockpit for sailing. The design emphasizes functionality and ease of use for short outings. The cockpit provides seating for a small crew, and while specific details on interior finish are scarce, early fiberglass boats like the Super Satellite typically featured straightforward, robust fiberglass surfaces, with minimal wood trim, prioritizing durability and ease of cleaning over elaborate finishes. Storage would be limited to small compartments within the cockpit or under the foredeck, suitable for safety gear, personal items, and perhaps a picnic lunch. Ventilation is, by nature, excellent due to the open design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Super Satellite frequently praise its inherent simplicity, making it an excellent choice for new sailors or those seeking a low-maintenance day boat. The boat's light weight (240 lbs) and modest dimensions mean it is generally easy to trailer, launch, and retrieve, adding to its accessibility. The centerboard design is a consistent highlight, offering flexibility for exploring shallow waters and enhancing its performance characteristics. While specific common problems are not widely documented, like many older fiberglass boats, potential owners should consider the condition of the original fittings and rudder mechanisms, which may require periodic maintenance or upgrades. The Super Satellite is cherished for its ability to provide pure, unadulterated sailing enjoyment in a manageable and affordable package.