Sundeer 60 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Sundeer 60 is defined by its length-to-beam ratio, which is significantly higher than most production cruisers. This "long and skinny" approach allows the hull to pierce waves rather than hobby-horsing over them, resulting in a motion that is far less fatiguing for a shorthanded crew. On the water, the boat behaves more like a modern performance yacht than a traditional cruiser; it tracks exceptionally well due to its deep spade rudder and high-aspect fin keel.

Because the hull is inherently efficient, the sail area-to-displacement ratio does not need to be excessively high to achieve double-digit speeds. Steve Dashew designed the rig to be easily managed from the cockpit, often featuring a large roach mainsail and a small, non-overlapping jib. According to technical insights from SetSail, the 60-foot hull length provides a high theoretical hull speed, allowing the boat to outrun weather systems—a primary safety feature in the Dashew design manual. Handling under power is equally predictable, though the narrow beam and long overhangs require an understanding of the boat's pivot point during tight marina maneuvers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Sundeer 60 reflects a "form follows function" ethos that eschews the cavernous, dark cabins of traditional offshore boats in favor of light, ventilation, and safety. The layout is dominated by a massive "great room" amidships, incorporating the galley, navigation station, and saloon. A signature feature of the model is the inclusion of at least two—and often three—true watertight bulkheads, which significantly enhance the vessel’s survivability in the event of a collision.

The Sundeer 60 was part of a modular family of designs built on similar hull forms. Its most prominent sibling is the Sundeer 64, which is essentially the same hull with a four-foot transom extension that provides a larger gear garage and a more gradual "sugar scoop" for water access. Another variant, the Sundeer 56, served as the slightly smaller predecessor, but the 60 is often cited by owners as the "sweet spot" for balancing interior volume with manageable loads. Materials inside are typically high-quality but utilitarian, often utilizing white laminates and light woods to maximize the sense of space provided by the numerous large cabin-top windows.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Sundeer series gained international fame through the prolific writings of Steve and Linda Dashew. Their seminal works, including the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and Surviving the High Seas, use the Sundeer 60 and its siblings as the primary case studies for modern blue-water voyaging. The model's reputation was further cemented by high-profile circumnavigations documented on the SetSail website, which has served as a technical repository for the Sundeer community for decades.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While TPI’s construction is highly regarded, potential buyers should focus on areas specific to the Sundeer’s unique build:

• Window Seals: The large, iconic wrap-around salon windows are a potential failure point. Over decades, the sealant can degrade, leading to leaks that can damage the interior cabinetry. Inspect for any signs of "clouding" in the acrylic or water tracks on the inner liners.
• Core Integrity: Although the SCRIMP process creates a very high-quality laminate, any through-hull fittings added after the initial build must be checked for proper sealing. Ensure that no moisture has wicked into the balsa or foam core around secondary installations.
• Rigging Loads: Because these boats are often sailed hard and cover vast distances, the standing rigging and chainplates should be scrutinized. The loads on the 60-foot mast are substantial, even with the "easy-to-handle" sail plan.
• Watertight Door Seals: The efficacy of the watertight bulkheads depends entirely on the integrity of the seals on the passage doors. These should be tested for a proper gasket seat and ease of operation.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner history is SetSail, maintained by the Dashew family. While there is no formal "Sundeer Class Association" in the traditional sense, the community of owners is tightly knit, often sharing refit data and performance logs through dedicated threads on major long-distance cruising forums.

The Verdict

The Sundeer 60 remains one of the most capable offshore voyaging tools ever produced for a couple. It trades traditional "yachty" aesthetics for raw efficiency and safety.

Pros

• Exceptional passage-making speeds with minimal crew effort.
• Superior safety via multiple watertight bulkheads and a collision bulkhead.
• High-quality TPI/SCRIMP construction ensures a stiff, durable hull.
• Excellent ventilation and natural light compared to contemporary cruisers.

Cons

• The 60-foot length can lead to higher slip fees and maintenance costs.
• The narrow beam provides less "living room" width than modern wide-body cruisers.
• Aesthetic is strictly functional, which may not appeal to those seeking a traditional wooden interior.