Buying a Used Sunfish Sailboat: Know The Ins and Outs Before Sailing Away

As anyone who's ever bought a used car knows, you have to approach the project armed with your own knowledge before you even set foot on the lot. In this situation, being uninformed is tantamount to being taken to the cleaners.

The same goes for buying a sailboat. And, like automobiles, no sailboat is the same, so you should know the basics (and some particulars, as well) about the overall condition of the Sunfish sailboat you have your eye on.

The first question should always be, of course, how much cash are you willing to part with? If you plan on upgrading a used Sunfish, that alone can cost from $550 to $750 or more, depending on whether you want to use it to race. Prices also vary by location and supply; there's no "set" price for a used Sunfish sailboat.

Then, where do you find a good used boat? Some people prefer to place their own ads (either in local newspapers or on the Internet) as opposed to responding to those already published. Many people have used Sunfish sailboats in pretty good condition but just haven't thought of placing an ad for it. Also, check out local dealers, particularly if you're buying out of season or if the outfit isn't a Sunfish dealer. Also, knowing that sailboats go for less in winter and fall will put you ahead of the game.

Some obvious things that people often forget to look for are: age of the boat, which can be determined by checking the rudder, gunwales, or the serial number, if you don't know the actual age; the weight of the hull, which should be between 115 and 130 pounds, and the resistance or lack thereof ? watch out for a hull that's too flexible.

Also, check the mast step and daggerboard trunk for hairline cracks or holes, and the condition of the bailer and storage compartment. And, the cockpit rim may be hiding some damage.

Other places to look for potential deal-breakers:
Signs of moisture in ports or drains.
Nicks or dents in the blades; splits and cracks in wooden blades.
Rudder and tiller cracks, corrosion, or pitting.
Dents or bends in the mast, near the tube.
Corrosion in the gaff and boom.
Holes or bad seams in the sail.

Never let the seller think you know as much as you do, bring plenty of cash just in case, and you'll find a good deal on a used Sunfish sailboat.

David Dunlap is the owner and founder of All About Sailboats and The Ocean Sailing Guide, two online resources for every sailing enthusiast. For sailing information and resources, including boat insurance and sailing charters, visit http://allaboutsailboats.com or http://theoceansailingguide.com

---

Inflatable Boats and Inflatable Kayaks Are Naturally Safe and Stable

Inflatable boats such as inflatable kayaks, inflatable catamarans, and inflatable... Read More

Places to See On Your Alaska Cruise, Welcome To Juneau!!

Well my sister in law is in town this week... Read More

Learning How to Sail

When it comes to sailing, there are all kinds of... Read More

10 Thoughts On Picking a Cruise Ship Cabin

The best advice is to be informed about cabins and... Read More

Hydrofoils as Strike Vehicles on Water; Fast, Safe, Smart

High Speed boat-car, Hydrofoil. Hey slow down so we can... Read More

Tips on Marina and Dock Sealing

It is important to follow these procedures when sealing a... Read More

Caribbean Cruise: An Enchanting Experience

A Caribbean cruise is the world's most popular cruise. The... Read More

Alaska Cruise Expert Guide

The Alaska cruise is a breathtaking adventure that you'll never... Read More

Panama Cruise Expert Guide

Situated in the country of Panama in Central America is... Read More

Bahamas Cruise Expert Guide

The Bahamas is arguably the most popular cruise destination for... Read More

Alaska Cruise Ship Vacations

Alaska is one of the world's great cruise destinations, particularly... Read More

There Are Many Reasons Why You Should Choose Inflatable Boats Over Traditional Boats

If you spend any time in or around the water... Read More

Boat Winterization Services and Charges, Part II

Boat Winterization Services and Charges, Part IIIf you own a... Read More

The Best European Cruise Travel Vacation!

So, you are contemplating a European cruise. You are looking... Read More

Asia Cruises: A Journey in the Exotic World

Asia Cruises: Lasting Impressions of Culture and TraditionAn Asia cruise... Read More

Back to Nature: Observing Marine Life When Boating

"Whether you boat on fresh water or on the ocean,... Read More

Italy Cruise Expert Guide

History, wine, serene beauty, dramatic people and stunning views -... Read More

Fun and Fat Free Cruising

This year more than 10.5 million people will go on... Read More

Robotic Boat Cleaning is Here, Soon it will be Affordable

Robotic Underwater ship cleaning robotic unit, the M3500 Robotic System... Read More

The History of Water Sports

Swimming is noted in many of the classics as relating... Read More

Boat Hull Cleaning; Equipment Needed

How do you clean the hull on a boat when... Read More

Bermuda Cruise Expert Guide

At just twenty-one square miles in size, the island of... Read More

Western Caribbean Cruise

We were on the Radiance of the Seas for the... Read More

Taking A Paddleboat Cruise

In May my husband and I took a wonderful steamboat... Read More

Crossing Paths With a Legend

When 13-year-old Bill Lefakinis first visited the famed yacht Christina... Read More

Beautiful Tropical Beaches!

The world is blessed with wonderful beautiful sandy tropical beaches.... Read More

Keep Cruising and Keep Traveling - It is Safe

In the time that has followed since the tragic events... Read More

Boat and Yacht Detailing - Teak Reconditioning and Care, Detailing the Deck

If you find your boat with gray and weathered teak,... Read More

Disney Cruise Expert Guide

Experiencing the magic of Disney at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney... Read More

Radisson Seven Seas Cruises! Where Luxury Goes Exploring

Luxury goes exploring! How faithfully these words portray the elegance,... Read More

Alaska - Easy Cruise Guide

WHAT TO SEE: Legendary beautiful scenery of Alaska- magnificent coastal... Read More

Find Many Cruise Deals That Suit Your Personal Style And Needs!

Finding Cruise Deals are half the battle when considering a... Read More

Online Shopping for Cruise Deals, Travel Deals & Great Vacation Packages!

Are you contemplating a travel vacation and don't know how... Read More