VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

I just stopped by the Tampa Boat Show, and saw that Sailfish Boats, made in Cairo GA, are producung SeaCraft hull clones. While I won't be giving up my Seafari, let me say that these are the best clones into which I have ever had the pleasure of peering into the bilge. The clones are 21', 23' & 26'. The 21 comes in 3 models, including a WA. The 23, ditto, while the 26 is available only as a CC.
Interestingly enough, the 23 tournament boat costs $98K with twin 4stroke Yam 250's, whereas the 26 similarly rigged with the same motors is only $90K. Construction techniques and materials appear excellent.
See them here: Sailfish Boats

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Call me a traitor, but I sold my 84 20 foot MA and moved into a Sailfish 236 - F225 four stroker, shorelander trailer and all electronics for under 45k.

I/my family have also owned an early 70's 23 SeaCraft with twin 165 merc in/out brd and a 84 23 with a 225 outboard and (blasphemy) I personally like this boat better. It has a 9 1/2 foot beam, is DRY and very fishy [img]/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img] Hope I can still be a memeber here - [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Well, since you no longer own one, without a doubt you still must have that magnetic passion for the 70's SeaCraft. If not,then why on earth are you still surfing the forum of "ClassicSeaCraft.Com" [img]/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

From my cold dead hands will anyone get the keys to my
Classic SeaCrafts!!!!!!! [img]/images/graemlins/shocked.gif[/img] [img]/images/graemlins/shocked.gif[/img] [img]/images/graemlins/shocked.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

OH YEAH---

TRAITOR [img]/images/graemlins/mad.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

They are nice boats however they just dont have the classic lines of a seacraft. I'll stay with the old boats [img]/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img]

strick

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Your right on Strick!

BTW: Don't compare the VD on the Sailfish to SeaCraft's VDH. It is NOT the same. The Sailfish is missing a lifting strake http://floridasportsman.com/art/scold.gif

SAILFISH
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1.../sailfish2.jpg

SEACRAFT
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...llback/vd1.jpg

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

If you've owned both the older 23' SeaCraft and the 23' Sailfish and like the Sailfish better, that certainly says something for the Sailfish [img]/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

I'm pretty sure that itty bitty strake at the bow area doesn't add any lift, just deflects a bit of water.

Frankly, I'm surprised that more makers don't use the VDH hull design, it's the key to a great ride

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Don't get me wrong, I do love the old SeaCrafts, and learned a lot from many on this board - which is why I still lurk around. And Dear Capt, I hardly think those that own a classic pre-80's Seacraft are the only ones who frequent this site. [img]/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img]

But all I see is that another manufactuer took an unbeatable hull design, stretched it and made it an unbelievably dry boat. I had my dad on it yesterday - and he owned the other SeaCrafts I mentioned, and all he said was wow, nice boat and great ride (he owns a regulator now). My only quasi-complaint about the boat is that the console is too HUGE, but with built in tackle storage, walk in console with marine head and decent access to electronics in the console I gues I can't complain. The enclosed transom with built in bait well and a small transom door are also hard to beat. So the boat takes care of my fishing needs an has enough creature comforts to satisfy my wife. If I had 50k to re-do a SeaCraft or the 38 K for the Sailfish, boat alone, it would be a tough decision.

Strick - I hear ya - But I can't do what you do to fiberglass. Your boat is truly a gem.

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

You would be surprised at what a difference that little strake makes,that's why it's there.And it has nothing to do with making it any drier,23 foot boats are not dry.It's there for lift and softer ride.

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

I don't know much about hull design, but that little section is already out of the water when the boat is at rest, and most boats don't need any help lifting the bow when underway. [img]/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

My 78 Secptre has the extra strake, but my 70 20SF does not.
Maybe one of our SeaCraft historians will know more about that addition.
See ya, Ken

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

84 MA

The point is that this is a "Classic SeaCraft" site. You posted a comment on this site that I don't think that is appropriate here. If you want to discuss how much you like another boat then comments and boat comparisons can be made on the "The Hull Truth" forum site. You made your comments under the SeaCraft "General Thread" which clearly states:

Secondly

I'm not trying to start a pissing contest here but Sailfish didn't stretch anything. Many boat manufactures claim to have the magic hull design, the softest re-entry, more hand laid glass, best features for the money etc etc etc. All in the name of generating more sales. Many have come and gone. Bottom line is how many of these manufactures have a proven track record ? I can't wait to see www.classicbayliner.com [img]/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Amen Capt. Chuck

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

The 18's also had it although the 20's didn't (and still don't).

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Yes, you don't know anything about hull design.I am not a marine designer either,however,I have been a licensed (100 ton )Captain since 1979 and driven everything from SeaCraft's to million dollar Merritt's from Maine to Key West,the Bahamas,Mexico and Carribean for a living.And I'm here to tell ya' that when you put the pointy end of any boat into a sea the strake creates lift and air under the hull so that when you drop back off the sea you don't pound.Again,that's why they are there.

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

"The point is that this is a "Classic SeaCraft" site. You posted a comment on this site" - Hey Capt - I was responding to some guys post - I don't believe you wrote the Constitution, but last I checked I have the freedom of speech just like any other guy that posts on this site...so I'll exercise that right as I see fit. Not sure who made you the freakin Overlord of this site, and I don't really care what you think about my boat or a strake that appears to be missing....and appears to be missing from a lot of SeaCrafts as well.

And when I said they stretched the hull, I was referring to the beam. Last time I checked the beam on a 23 SeaCraft, unlike my boat, was under 9 foot. And what the hell are you talking about a proven track record, last I checked your beloved company has been sold more times than I can count. And half the posts on this site are dedicated to modifying what was wrong with the construction of the boat -how many guys have made wet feet comments on this site. Hey Chief, I owned one and loved the boat - good for me and good for you, lets have a party. And although I sold the boat I still enjoy the site and the only thing I can find wrong with it during the time I have been a member is that I have to defend my opinion.

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Uh Oh, I think it is about to get messy. [img]/images/graemlins/ooo.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

I'm pretty sure we are not talking about the same thing. You might want to re-read the thread; it’s not about the nature of lifting strakes. BTW, driving a big boat doesn't give anyone knowledge of the intricacies of fluid flow dynamics. [img]/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Man O'man count me in on this one! I don't know how this slipped by me for so long [img]/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img]
Yo Chuck, don't swet it. The worlds full of these guys that get sold on a Sailfish, Palmbeach, Keywest, and about a hundred other piece of crap seacraft knockoff's, thinking and hoping there the same boat.......NOT!

I tow'em in all the time. [img]/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Finster- All we need is some cold beer to maximize this entertainment. Joey and Capt. Chuck-I agree about hearing the upgrades from Seacraft to Sailfish- wrong web site, it should be on classicsailfish.com-oh, sorry, there isn't one!? [img]/images/graemlins/shocked.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

THESE MANUFACTURES WON'T BE AROUND LONG ENOUGH TO EVEN BECOME COLLECTABLE, LET ALONE CLASSIC!!! [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

See ya, Ken

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Not sure what qualifies as Classic, but Sailfish has been around for 20 years. And they hardly compare to a Palm Beach or Key West, thats like comparing a SeaCraft to a SeaRay. Piss poor construction and much cheaper boats.

Hey guys, is it only o.k to voice an opinion if the subject is how great a SeaCraft is? Nothing wrong with a little controversy to me, and the subject could be debated for years, so its obvious we have drawn sides and can keep arguing. No one ever wins this debate.

I never said there was anything wrong with a classic SeaCraft, or this site. Not sure why there are no other similar site except for makybe classicmako, but if it wasn't for Jason, you guys would have no place to toot your horns.

There are some amazing boat that have been re-done by members on this site, Stricks, Ottos and Capt. Chucks to name a few are all evidence of the beauty of these boats. But there are things wrong with them too - they don't drain properly (didn't earn the nickname Sinkcraft for nothing) - and transoms and decks consistently failed on the old boats to name a few.

And to bring you back to reality the "classics" are still being built but I'd bet none of you hard core guys would dream of buying a newer boat. And why not? How do they match up to current manufacturers, same hull design?

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Let me put it to you this way. Yeah we have all replaced
transoms, decks, re-designed the way they drain, etc, etc.
But let us all see how that magnificent Sailfish of yours
looks after 30 or 40 years. I will bet money in that amount of time nobody is going to want to restore it. Mosley and Potter were way ahead of there time when they designed and built our boats. Todays technology enables us to make our Classic SeaCrafts the best they can be.
Next time you wanna make a crossing to the Bahamas in a 6ft
sea with that wonderfull Sailfish, Let us know. My 35 year
old 20SF of which I have INVESTED $30,000 is still doing it and in one piece.
So take your whiny, debating ass some place else. [img]/images/graemlins/mad.gif[/img]

See ya, Ken

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

[QUOTE]
C'mon now Roger ! I ran a 186' Supply Vessel & I cared about Fluid Flow Dynamics ; Only I called it Ballast ! Same thing right ? Oh by the way I gotta pretty BIG ticket (C.L.) along with the other documents/cards that come with it. Heck My unlmtd AB card took longer to get than most Capt. Lic. Ok so they stretched a 20' seacraft & put the pretty girlie Bayliner top cap with all the stuff there that'll eventually crack,fade & break. They do look nice but then the SeaCraft was designed to be fast & Fish ! They made the original & coined the fraise BowRider for the others. You want storage get a seaBag.
18 's bow boats & 23's had the lift strake 20's did not & there is a noticible Diff. In ride & splash ! But then being born in La. I gotta get wet OFTEN ! Otherwise I'd have a TRAWLER!
& I ugh what the @%^^$# is this post all about now ? Sheet time for a BEER ! or a shot o Turkey !
Scream'n Reels'
Tug
This post does not necesarially reflect My true thoughts nor opions but They can be conceived & used against Me at any time! [img]/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img] [img]/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img]
Now Who's Catching Fish ?? [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Here Spider , Spider , Spider ! [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

"Driving big boats doesn't give anyone knowledge of the intricacies of fluid flow dynamics"


Neither does running a calculator!But if you had ever spent anytime at sea you sure as hell would of felt your "fluid dynamics" under your feet.Not much of that with your feet under a desk I suppose!
SeeYa,Joey

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

That extra strake is only on the 23, the 20 Seafari doesn't have it.

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Oh ! I did run a lil' 110' that did 21 knots was that considered fluid dynamics? [img]/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Oh'you know it brother! Ain't nothing like standing on the bridge with 20+ knots of Fluid Dynamics tickling your toes!

Not to mention buckling your knees and kicking your butt when it's blowing about 30 and you gotta get were your going.

Know what I mean Capt.Brad

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

No Bones, If you're making that crossing in 6 foot seas (and I have made the crossing more times than you will in a lifetime) you're more of an idiot that I thought...maybe thats how you came up with your board name.

And rebuilding a classic hull is hardly exclusive to SeaCrafts, I have seen many classic makos, formulas, 20 & 25 bertrams re-done. You clearly missed any point I was trying to make and obviously have way too much time on your hands if your sitting bitchin over one man's opinion....

I'll be happy to take my whiny debating ass elsewhere - Enjoy the other six guys that agree with you. Dude, with your stubborn single minded little brain of yours I am sure you have fits each morning deciding on what shoe to put on first.

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Like This ??
http://www.frenzie.com/IMG_0670.JPG

OK Now lets get back to the Sailfish thingy & SeaCraft issue !

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Well counselor, FYI I was born in Daytona Beach, Florida
52 years ago. My grandfather (a Florida native as well)
spent many hours with myself boating and fishing all
of the east coast of Florida. And going to the Bahamas
is one of our favorite things to do. We trailer to
Stuart and head over. Obviously your experience with crossings must be some what diminished, because as most
FLORIDIAN'S know the stream can kick up at any time.
Geographically speaking Virginia is a very long run to the Bahamas. But most attorneys can only see the ambulance
with the lights flashing, maybe that is what has you confused. "No Bones" came from the term of no bones in my fish when they are cleaned. As far as to much time on my hands, maybe. That is a privilege I have earned.
I have the time and the money to do as I please.
BTW: Your freedom of speech theory does not hold water.
Yes CSC is a public site, but you must be registered to
voice your oppion. As far as crossings go I have lost count.
Good Luck with your new Sailfish, as a suggestion you could
start your own website with some of your other enthusiast.
If there are any. [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
See ya, Ken

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

When I made that post on the Sailfish s few days ago, I had no idea it would stir up a storm.
My background before becoming a priest was recreational boating, powerboat racing and tuning, and marina management.

I have owned 3 SeaCrafts, including the one I own now, 2 20' Seafaris, a 74 and a 72, and 1 1973 23 CC. I bought my 1st Seafari in 1983. I have also owned Glastron, Mako, Boston Whaler, Checkmate, and Cacci Craft boats. I got my 6 pack license at 18, my 100 ton Ocean Operator at 22. I have been upside down in the bilges of more boats from 15' to 90' than I care to count.
Managing marinas, I have seen more crap masquerading as "boats" than I care to think about. My boat of choice has always been "Potter-built" SeaCraft. Still is.
All that said, the Sailfish, on casual inspection, appears to be the best SeaCraft clone I have ever seen. It appears to be MUCH, MUCH better built than current SeaCrafts being produced by Tracker. Sailfish has changed owners several times since they 1st began producing 18' & 20' SC clones back in 1990. I know of one 18' sold new in '90 that still looks brand new, sitting in the water in Juno, Florida. It's been in the water since new.
I'm not getting rid of my Seafari. In fact, I'm looking for a Tsunami/Sceptre to add to my "fleet".
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. In this case, Sailfish has flattered SeaCraft very highly, to the point of trying to imitate the "Potter-built" quality. High praise, if you ask me.
How about if we applaud Sailfish's efforts to build a worthy copy, as so many SC copies have been poorly built. We can hang on to the originals, while admire the very best copies.

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

Frank, I would have expected better of you than that.

From what I've seen of the Sailfish has been very disappointing. From the lack of marine grade wiring and so on. They seem to cut every unnoticeable corner they can find, as do the current day Tracker which is another knock-off IMO.

It's kinda like making an AC Cobra out of a VW.....

Just thought I'd stir the pot a bit. [img]/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img] [img]/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

No Bones, Hate to break it to you Chief, but I was born and raised in Miami - no trailer required. Doubt your a native either. I may live in Virginia now, but I still spend a significant amount of time fishing both coasts of the state, so I'd say my knowledge of the stream is sufficient to know better than to make a crossing to the bahamas in 6 footers in a 20. Your vast knowledge of the ocean sure is impressive - here's a hint for your next crossing - PFD's and CH16 on your VHF cause anyone stupid enough to try that in a 20 is gonna need some help.

Hey I had another idea, why not take some of that money of yours and invest in charm school, and maybe buy a few friends while your at it, cause with your attitude you sure can't have many.

Ain't this grand two florida rednecks pissing on a fire [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

please do not do that agian.

tx Trayder

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

It's on the 18's as well.

Re: VDH Hull on Sailfish Boats
 

WHOOOOOOA BROTHERS! Lets all get along now and not let an alligator mouth override a parrakeet azz [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

At least we all agree on a few things: Beer, Babes(i hope) and SeaCrafts! Hey Fr Frank, you started this thread how bouts a prayer to keep us all sane [img]/images/graemlins/blush.gif[/img]

BTW: I'm been in So Florida since 1952, so nah nah nah http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/ae...smiley-022.gif also, I have made several West Palm Bch to Walkers Cay crossings (105 mi) in some very snotty weather and that little 20' blue SeaCraft (Now for sale by "hichop") was hanging in there with the rest of us! Although I prefer being in my 23' for those times [img]/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]