Does anybody know anything about Starwind Sailboats. I am going to look at a Starwind27 this weekend. The boat looks great on paper. Any information would be helpful. I appreciate the information. You guys/gals have always been so helpful. RG
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I have a Starwind 27 made in 1984.
I'll be glad to talk about it since I have run into relatively few people that know about this model. It does look good on paper and it is a nice, performance-oriented boat made by Wellcraft when they were briefly in the business of making sailboats. The designer, Jim Taylor, is widely known for designing boats for Precision and Sabre. According to an ad I found, the base PHRF is 186, which is not very meaningful to me, but may be to you. The mast is stepped on the coach roof and there is no compression post. Ours is a shoal draft and I have a 10HP Yanmar diesel. It heels comfortably up to about 25 degrees and performs well at that angle. Weather helm is excessive when you get closer to 30 degrees. The boat is beamy for a 27 footer at 9'8" beam. It has a nice wide deck for going forward. Ours feels soft to me, though, between supports I suppose, and I am curious if this is a trait due to insufficient support or thickness, or if I have a moisture problem. I couldn't tell you for sure. If you walk on the deck and notice anything, I would appreciate your input. We have no softness in the cockpit, on the coach roof or forward. It's roomy down below and well laid out. The aft berth is more suitable for sail storage in my opinion. The forward berth is more comfortable. All in all, I like the lines of our boat and I prefer it over any of the other similar sized boats on the lake (there aren't many our size and maybe only one or two larger). We never race since there doesn't seem to be any interest among the people who have boats of our size, but it seems like our Starwind would do well against any of them. We're happy with the boat. I would say that the cockpit feels smaller than it is due primarily to the bridge deck. Between the bridgedeck and the wheel pedestal, there is very little leg room for two passengers (besides the helmsman). Let us know what you think after you look at her!
I'll be glad to talk about it since I have run into relatively few people that know about this model. It does look good on paper and it is a nice, performance-oriented boat made by Wellcraft when they were briefly in the business of making sailboats. The designer, Jim Taylor, is widely known for designing boats for Precision and Sabre. According to an ad I found, the base PHRF is 186, which is not very meaningful to me, but may be to you. The mast is stepped on the coach roof and there is no compression post. Ours is a shoal draft and I have a 10HP Yanmar diesel. It heels comfortably up to about 25 degrees and performs well at that angle. Weather helm is excessive when you get closer to 30 degrees. The boat is beamy for a 27 footer at 9'8" beam. It has a nice wide deck for going forward. Ours feels soft to me, though, between supports I suppose, and I am curious if this is a trait due to insufficient support or thickness, or if I have a moisture problem. I couldn't tell you for sure. If you walk on the deck and notice anything, I would appreciate your input. We have no softness in the cockpit, on the coach roof or forward. It's roomy down below and well laid out. The aft berth is more suitable for sail storage in my opinion. The forward berth is more comfortable. All in all, I like the lines of our boat and I prefer it over any of the other similar sized boats on the lake (there aren't many our size and maybe only one or two larger). We never race since there doesn't seem to be any interest among the people who have boats of our size, but it seems like our Starwind would do well against any of them. We're happy with the boat. I would say that the cockpit feels smaller than it is due primarily to the bridge deck. Between the bridgedeck and the wheel pedestal, there is very little leg room for two passengers (besides the helmsman). Let us know what you think after you look at her!
Can't hide here
Hey Cory. Yes I spoke to Doug and I will be in Houston around 11:30 on Saturday. This is one of the boats he wants to show. It is really hard to get any information about this boat brand anywhere on the net. I really appreciate the help you ahve been so far.
Hey Cory. Yes I spoke to Doug and I will be in Houston around 11:30 on Saturday. This is one of the boats he wants to show. It is really hard to get any information about this boat brand anywhere on the net. I really appreciate the help you ahve been so far.
Old Chryslers
Wellcraft acquired the molds I want to say from AMF and built the Jim Taylor designs in Sarasota, FL. Look up the Chrysler history in the net and you'll find the Starwinds. I believe Precision Boats from Palmetto, FL has the molds and is manufacturing the Jim Taylor designs in 16' and 22'. They also have a 28'.
Wellcraft acquired the molds I want to say from AMF and built the Jim Taylor designs in Sarasota, FL. Look up the Chrysler history in the net and you'll find the Starwinds. I believe Precision Boats from Palmetto, FL has the molds and is manufacturing the Jim Taylor designs in 16' and 22'. They also have a 28'.
Did a little checking.
Was wrong about AMF and Precision Boats does not seem to have the molds although they are manufacturing the Jim Taylor designs. Check out the following link for the little information that is available about the Starwinds. http://chryslersailing.lizards.net/sail_history.html
Was wrong about AMF and Precision Boats does not seem to have the molds although they are manufacturing the Jim Taylor designs. Check out the following link for the little information that is available about the Starwinds. http://chryslersailing.lizards.net/sail_history.html
PRHF rating...
in the 180's indicates it's considered a fast boat by whomever rated it. Most 27's don't rate below 200. It would put it at the top (lowest rating) of our B fleet in our club races. It would have to be sailed well to not be beaten by higher rated boats that may sail better than their rating (like a well-sailed Cal 25 with a rating around the 230's).
in the 180's indicates it's considered a fast boat by whomever rated it. Most 27's don't rate below 200. It would put it at the top (lowest rating) of our B fleet in our club races. It would have to be sailed well to not be beaten by higher rated boats that may sail better than their rating (like a well-sailed Cal 25 with a rating around the 230's).
Starwind 270 data.
The Starwind 27 is a cruising boat with all the amenities and performance of most 30 footers. Description of the Boat Options Available Prices (May 1984 Motor Boating & Sailing) "Sailaway Price $30,000." Specifications (see table below) Graphics Pictures Racing Numbers- PHRF #186 - MORC 22.5 - IOC 22.3 - Portmouth Discussion of History Development of the Hull Links to Other Web Sites -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Specifications (from 1983 Brochure) Length Overall Waterline Length Beam Draft Shoal Deep Displacement Ballast 27'8" 22'6" 9'8" 3'7" 4'11" 5,100 lbs. 2,000 lbs. Specifications Sail Area: Total Main 110% Genoa 346 sq.ft. 165sq. ft. 199 sq. ft. Specifications I P J E 34'6" 29'6" 10'6" 11'2" Racing Numbers- PHRF # 174 sec/mile (May 1984 Motor Boating & Sailing) - Portmouth
The Starwind 27 is a cruising boat with all the amenities and performance of most 30 footers. Description of the Boat Options Available Prices (May 1984 Motor Boating & Sailing) "Sailaway Price $30,000." Specifications (see table below) Graphics Pictures Racing Numbers- PHRF #186 - MORC 22.5 - IOC 22.3 - Portmouth Discussion of History Development of the Hull Links to Other Web Sites -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Specifications (from 1983 Brochure) Length Overall Waterline Length Beam Draft Shoal Deep Displacement Ballast 27'8" 22'6" 9'8" 3'7" 4'11" 5,100 lbs. 2,000 lbs. Specifications Sail Area: Total Main 110% Genoa 346 sq.ft. 165sq. ft. 199 sq. ft. Specifications I P J E 34'6" 29'6" 10'6" 11'2" Racing Numbers- PHRF # 174 sec/mile (May 1984 Motor Boating & Sailing) - Portmouth
Some other personal notes about the boat ...
My wife is 5'6" and has been hit (glancing) in the head by the boom while standing in the cockpit. I am 6' so obviously I have to be careful, too!
With the boom as low as it is, I have to stoop below the bimini. This summer I didn't bother putting the bimini up because I like being able to see the wind indicator and tell tales from the helm. Moving around the wheel from the helm to the cockpit is awkward, even though it is a "T"-shaped cockpit. The floor slopes where you hve to put your foot to get around and when slippery, I have slid to the floor before being able to recover. I fixed that by putting non-skid pads down, but it is still awkward. Down below, there is plenty of headroom for my wife and she can walk around in the salon with ease, I have to stoop as it is a couple of inches shy for me unless I am standing directly under the sliding coach roof, where I am just touching. The bilge is deep enough so that it isn't a problem. By comparison, a Cal 27-2 we looked at had no level sole, you stood directly on the hull, which gave you more headroom but a sloping floor and a bilge that was just a few inches deep. I read complaints that water in the bilge easily spills onto the floor in that boat. The coaming mounted primary winch is located back where the helmsman can easily reach it, which is a plus, I think. But I think it is a little awkward for crew to operate the winch because the wheel pedestal gets in the way, particularly if you have to cleat the jib sheet. A self-tailing winch solves that awkwardness. The roof mounted winches for the halyards are located well. I added clutches since they weren't on the boat as I got her. The traveler is mounted on the bridge deck with a 1-1/8" track (Schaffer on mine) which is recessed. The track does not cause any discomfort for seating on the bridge deck, but the main sheet interferes and when somebody is seated, it is a nuisance to move for traveler adjustments, so it makes the cockpit feel small. Also, I tried to replace the traveler stops with a block and cleat combination, but it didn't work. The flange for the cleat (of the block and cleat component) overhangs the seat lockers so you can't raise the seat locker if you install the part. So I bought those things and they are still sitting in a box, brand new! Take a look at how the boatowner addresses that problem if you get a chance. All in all, she is a sleek looking boat and there may be some compromises because she is just 27 feet, but we looked at a Cal 30 that was comparably priced on the same day and came away favorably impressed with the Starwind.
My wife is 5'6" and has been hit (glancing) in the head by the boom while standing in the cockpit. I am 6' so obviously I have to be careful, too!
With the boom as low as it is, I have to stoop below the bimini. This summer I didn't bother putting the bimini up because I like being able to see the wind indicator and tell tales from the helm. Moving around the wheel from the helm to the cockpit is awkward, even though it is a "T"-shaped cockpit. The floor slopes where you hve to put your foot to get around and when slippery, I have slid to the floor before being able to recover. I fixed that by putting non-skid pads down, but it is still awkward. Down below, there is plenty of headroom for my wife and she can walk around in the salon with ease, I have to stoop as it is a couple of inches shy for me unless I am standing directly under the sliding coach roof, where I am just touching. The bilge is deep enough so that it isn't a problem. By comparison, a Cal 27-2 we looked at had no level sole, you stood directly on the hull, which gave you more headroom but a sloping floor and a bilge that was just a few inches deep. I read complaints that water in the bilge easily spills onto the floor in that boat. The coaming mounted primary winch is located back where the helmsman can easily reach it, which is a plus, I think. But I think it is a little awkward for crew to operate the winch because the wheel pedestal gets in the way, particularly if you have to cleat the jib sheet. A self-tailing winch solves that awkwardness. The roof mounted winches for the halyards are located well. I added clutches since they weren't on the boat as I got her. The traveler is mounted on the bridge deck with a 1-1/8" track (Schaffer on mine) which is recessed. The track does not cause any discomfort for seating on the bridge deck, but the main sheet interferes and when somebody is seated, it is a nuisance to move for traveler adjustments, so it makes the cockpit feel small. Also, I tried to replace the traveler stops with a block and cleat combination, but it didn't work. The flange for the cleat (of the block and cleat component) overhangs the seat lockers so you can't raise the seat locker if you install the part. So I bought those things and they are still sitting in a box, brand new! Take a look at how the boatowner addresses that problem if you get a chance. All in all, she is a sleek looking boat and there may be some compromises because she is just 27 feet, but we looked at a Cal 30 that was comparably priced on the same day and came away favorably impressed with the Starwind.Thank you
Thank you to everyone for the information. Scott, I was excited by your first post, but after your 2nd post I am not sure if you really like the boat that much. I guess we will have to see first hand if it fits our needs. I had a problem trying to find any reviews.
Thank you to everyone for the information. Scott, I was excited by your first post, but after your 2nd post I am not sure if you really like the boat that much. I guess we will have to see first hand if it fits our needs. I had a problem trying to find any reviews.
I gave you the wrong impression, RG!
Actually, we love the boat and have been very happy with it. I think a small cruiser like this is filled with compromises and I was simply emphasizing them. I think that a Jim Taylor designed boat is a big plus from a performance standpoint. If you want a higher boom and more headroom, then you have to put up with the performance drawbacks such as more windage, and higher center of effort. I like the sleek lines of our boat far more than the boats that have a higher cabin top and I still drive a couple of miles out of the way going home from work occasionally just to admire her while she lays on her mooring. The beamyness gives her nice decks and room below. The traveler may be in the way, but she HAS a traveler. Many boats of this size, including the Cal 27 did not have a traveler. The Cal was heavier, making it less tender in a strong wind, but also slower to gain momentum. Other boats this size are a bit lighter, and more tender. Our boat is quick to heel, and settles in nicely, with a very nice motion. The aft berth, the level sole, and the enclosed head were big advantages over the Cal down below. The Cal had a gasoline inboard, ours has a diesel. This was a big plus, not that I have anything against a gas engine, but I wanted to learn about diesels. This boat is for us to learn on so we can move up in size when we have more sophisticated knowledge, and she has been perfect for that purpose. For this size, I don't think the lack of a compression post is an issue. After 23 years, there is no sign of any problem with the roof. The structural features of the roof seem sturdy enough. I know some people consider this an issue so that is why I mentioned it. For our boat and our usage, it isn't an issue. BTW, our boat was named Sara and hailed from Spring, Texas before coming to New Jersey. It must have been where she was from originally. She was in Sea Bright, NJ for many years before we bought her and moved her to Lake Hopatcong two summers ago. We are considering a move to the coast or the Hudson River before long.
Actually, we love the boat and have been very happy with it. I think a small cruiser like this is filled with compromises and I was simply emphasizing them. I think that a Jim Taylor designed boat is a big plus from a performance standpoint. If you want a higher boom and more headroom, then you have to put up with the performance drawbacks such as more windage, and higher center of effort. I like the sleek lines of our boat far more than the boats that have a higher cabin top and I still drive a couple of miles out of the way going home from work occasionally just to admire her while she lays on her mooring. The beamyness gives her nice decks and room below. The traveler may be in the way, but she HAS a traveler. Many boats of this size, including the Cal 27 did not have a traveler. The Cal was heavier, making it less tender in a strong wind, but also slower to gain momentum. Other boats this size are a bit lighter, and more tender. Our boat is quick to heel, and settles in nicely, with a very nice motion. The aft berth, the level sole, and the enclosed head were big advantages over the Cal down below. The Cal had a gasoline inboard, ours has a diesel. This was a big plus, not that I have anything against a gas engine, but I wanted to learn about diesels. This boat is for us to learn on so we can move up in size when we have more sophisticated knowledge, and she has been perfect for that purpose. For this size, I don't think the lack of a compression post is an issue. After 23 years, there is no sign of any problem with the roof. The structural features of the roof seem sturdy enough. I know some people consider this an issue so that is why I mentioned it. For our boat and our usage, it isn't an issue. BTW, our boat was named Sara and hailed from Spring, Texas before coming to New Jersey. It must have been where she was from originally. She was in Sea Bright, NJ for many years before we bought her and moved her to Lake Hopatcong two summers ago. We are considering a move to the coast or the Hudson River before long.
Thanks Scott
Scott, I did not mean to offend. Thank you for this last posting. It sounds like you really like the boat and for good reasons. That is what I was looking for. Good reasons. I too am looking for the intermediate boat before I super size. I hate the fact that I sail on a lake, but at least we still have water........and a lot of water to sail on. Thanks again for the honest feedback about this brand.
Scott, I did not mean to offend. Thank you for this last posting. It sounds like you really like the boat and for good reasons. That is what I was looking for. Good reasons. I too am looking for the intermediate boat before I super size. I hate the fact that I sail on a lake, but at least we still have water........and a lot of water to sail on. Thanks again for the honest feedback about this brand.
Scott, I looked at the boat
The boat is as you described. There are a lot of good things about this boat. I was impressed with the quality of some of the rigging and hardware. I wish there was more headroom. I would agree with Scott on the cockpit. It feels small and a little cumbersome to move around. Were it a bit taller inside it would be on top of my list. Thanks to everyone for their responses.
The boat is as you described. There are a lot of good things about this boat. I was impressed with the quality of some of the rigging and hardware. I wish there was more headroom. I would agree with Scott on the cockpit. It feels small and a little cumbersome to move around. Were it a bit taller inside it would be on top of my list. Thanks to everyone for their responses.
Good luck with your search, RG!
We've been talking about when to make the move to a larger boat so we can expand our horizons with more comfort, but the convenience of having our boat so close to home is hard to give up right now. We've been making improvements to our boat all along, but I am always thinking about how much I should spend that will never get returned when it comes time to sell. I think that keeping her as clean as possible is the best way to make a decent return.
We've been talking about when to make the move to a larger boat so we can expand our horizons with more comfort, but the convenience of having our boat so close to home is hard to give up right now. We've been making improvements to our boat all along, but I am always thinking about how much I should spend that will never get returned when it comes time to sell. I think that keeping her as clean as possible is the best way to make a decent return.
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