Sundance 13 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Sundance 13 is a light-displacement, centerboard dinghy that prioritizes responsiveness over heavy-weather stability. Based on the design language established by E.A. Brown for the Sundance series, the 13 features a relatively flat hull section aft, which helps the boat achieve planing speeds in moderate breezes. Because it lacks a weighted keel, the vessel relies entirely on the crew's weight and the deployment of its centerboard to provide the necessary righting moment and lateral resistance.

Owner accounts from regional Michigan sailing circles often describe the boat as a "lively" sailer that provides immediate feedback to the tiller. Its sloop rig—consisting of a mainsail and a small jib—is sized to be manageable for beginners while offering enough sail area to remain competitive in light-air conditions common on small lakes. The boat tracks reasonably well for its size, though like most 13-foot dinghies, it is susceptible to "hobby-horsing" in a short chop due to its limited waterline length.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Sundance 13 does not have a high-profile racing pedigree or a presence in major nautical cinema, it maintains a dedicated following within the "El Mar Boat Company Sailboats" community. This owner-led group serves as the primary repository for the model's history, where users document restoration projects and share rigging diagrams that have otherwise been lost to time since El Mar Boat Co. ceased operations. The boat is occasionally mentioned in regional Michigan maritime historical discussions as a representative of the 1970s fiberglass boat-building boom in the Great Lakes region.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Sundance 13 on the secondary market, prospective buyers should focus on the structural integrity of the fiberglass, which may show signs of its age.

• Centerboard Trunk Seams: The most common point of failure on these models is the seam where the centerboard trunk meets the hull. Over time, stress from the centerboard can lead to hairline cracks or slow leaks.
• Mast Step Compression: Because the boat uses a deck-mounted mast, the area directly beneath the mast step should be checked for "spiderweb" cracking or soft spots, which indicate that the core material has begun to compress or rot.
• Hardware Backing: Early El Mar production methods occasionally lacked oversized backing plates for cleats and stay attachments. Inspect all deck hardware to ensure it is still firmly seated and that the fiberglass around the through-bolts hasn't been compromised.
• Rudder Gudgeons: The transom-mounted hardware for the rudder is a frequent wear point. Check for play in the gudgeons and ensure the transom itself is stiff and free of delamination.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Sundance 13 is preserved almost exclusively through the El Mar Boat Company Sailboats group. While no formal national class association exists for the Sundance 13, this online community provides a vital link for owners looking to source replacement parts or advice on rigging modifications. Information regarding original sail plans or manufacturer specifications is largely sourced from archived 1975 and 1976 El Mar Boat Co. literature shared among these enthusiasts.

The Verdict

The Sundance 13 is a straightforward, nostalgic daysailer that serves as an excellent "starter boat" for those interested in the history of Michigan-built fiberglass vessels.

Pros

• Easy to trailer and launch with a standard vehicle.
• Simple sloop rig is ideal for teaching sailing fundamentals.
• Durable fiberglass construction that handles beaching well.

Cons

• Manufacturer support and official parts are non-existent.
• Limited stability makes it unsuitable for rough or open water.
• The centerboard trunk is a known maintenance "gotcha" for older hulls.