19 ft lightning sailboat

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Family Day Sailing... World Class Racing The Best of Both Worlds!

• Design: Sparkman & Stephens, 1938
• Over 15000 built
• More than 100 active fleets worldwide
• Length: 19'0" (5.8m)
• Beam: 6'6" (2m)
• Displacement: 700 lb (318 kg
• Draft (board down): 4'11" (151.3cm), (board up): 5" (12.8cm
• Mast height: 26'2" (7.9m)
• Sail area (main & jib): 177 sq.ft.
• (spinnaker): 300 sq.ft.
• Crew (racing): 3

The International Lightning

Get the best of both worlds without compromising either, dinghy responsiveness sportboat performance the best of both worlds, refined design, today's technology the best of both worlds, the best competition in the world or a way to get away from it the best of both worlds , club racer or international icon the best of both worlds.

The ILCA is one of the oldest and best organized class associations in sailboat racing. Its primary purpose is to serve its membership, preserve the integrity of the Lightning and provide high-quality competitive events. In addition, the ILCA publishes a monthly newsletter Lightning Flashes with up-to-date regatta news, boat brokerage and ideas on how to get the most out of your Lightning. An annual Yearbook, containing many illustrated articles, reports on major championships, fleet reports and a complete association mailing list, is also published. The professional ILCA staff is always on hand to assist both current and potential members. If you're looking for a boat you can be proud to sail, one that offers dinghy handling with the performance of a sportboat, a refined design that's free of fads, complete with the technology of today for both racing and daysailing - Get The Best Of Both Worlds. Get into a Lightning. See you on the water. David Dellenbaugh, former Lightning World Champion and starting helmsman for 1992 America's Cup defender America3, lists the top ten things he likes about the Lightning:

• There's Lightning racing almost everywhere.
• Some of the best sailors in the world sail the Lightning.
• Lightnings are available from more than one high-quality builder.
• Lightnings even 20 years old are still competitive.
• The boat is one of the best crew trainers on the water today.
• The class is not so strict as to discourage experimentation which makes the boat faster and easier to sail.
• The Lightning has interested the finest sailmakers in the world so the sails and the tuning guides look great and are easy to use.
• The Lightning is a very roomy boat for daysailing.
• Lightning sailors sail hard, but they're not too cutthroat - someone's always ready to answer questions.
• The class management is as good as you'll find in one-design sailing.

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November 30, 1999 by Sail1Design Editor Leave a Comment

Without Compromising Either One The Lightning, a 19 foot trailerable centerboard sloop, was originally designed by Sparkman & Stephens as an affordable family day-sailor and racing boat. She has evolved into one of the most popular and competitive one-design racing classes in the world. Awarded ISAF International Class status, the Lightning is sailed in more than 13 countries and in the Pan American Games, and the class provides a professionally-managed association that is among the largest in all of one-design sailing. The Lightning’s rig is simple, but offers sophisticated sail shape controls. The hull features a unique hard chine design that combines the stability that provides sail-carrying power, with flat bottom sections that promote planing. The International Lightning Class Association protects the boat’s design and licenses custom and private builders to build boats under its administration. A list of Lightning builders is available from the ILCA upon request.

Dinghy Responsiveness, Sportboat Performance

The Best Of Both Worlds Whether racing or daysailing, the Lightning offers a combination of performance and stability that eludes most one-designs. The Lightning’s hard chine and 130 lb centerboard give her the stability and power of a small keel boat going to weather in strong winds and allow her to carry a very large spinnaker for breathtaking offwind rides. There’s room in the cockpit for two couples or a family to daysail, but the Lightning is easy to ramp launch and light enough to trailer with ease. In the event of a capsize, she can be righted and sailed dry by her crew.

Refined Design, Toda

The Best Of Both Worlds Whether you’re more interested in how a boat looks or how it behaves, it’s hard to beat the Lightning. The Class maintains an attitude that promotes conservative innovation, making the boat faster, safer and more maintenance free, while keeping prices affordable. Most Lightnings built in the last 25 years can be made competitive and it’s not uncommon to see them winning races right along with new ones. In fact the 1995 World Champion sailed a boat built in 1969! Modern Lightnings are built in foam-cored fiberglass with stainless steel centerboards and black anodized aluminum spars. The world’s top sailmakers give the class their best efforts. In short, there are enough controls to keep the most technically inclined happy, but it’s good tactics, boat-handling and hiking that win races.

The Best Competition In The World Or A Way To Get Away From It

The Best Of Both Worlds

Ted Turner, Dennis Conner, Ken Read, Dave Dellenbaugh, Dave Curtis, Bruce Goldsmith, Tom Allen, Neal Fowler, Steve Benjamin, Ched Proctor, Bill Shore, Greg Fisher, Andy Horton are just a few of the rock stars who have competed in the Lightning. After more than 60 years and more than 15,000 boats it’s easy to find a regatta when you want to. But whether you’re interested in serious racing or you just want to go for a joyride with the family, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the Lightning. Club Racer Or International Icon

The Lightning truly excels as a racing boat. It requires a wide range of different skills, both tactical and technical. At 700 pounds all up, the boat is tough enough to avoid frequent breakdowns, but light enough to plane wildly on the reaches. A World Championship is held every two years. North American, South American and European Championships are held each year as are innumerable regional and District championships. Major regattas attract some of the finest sailors in the world, but you find class members friendly and the sailmakers’ complete tuning guides helpful at getting you up to speed in a hurry.

The International Lightning Class Association

Welcome To Our World

The ILCA is one of the oldest and best organized class associations in sailboat racing. Its primary purpose is to serve its membership, preserve the integrity of the Lightning and provide high-quality competitive events. In addition, the ILCA publishes a monthly newsletter Lightning Flashes with up-to-date regatta news, boat brokerage and ideas on how to get the most out of your Lightning. An annual Yearbook, containing many illustrated articles, reports on major championships, fleet reports and a complete association mailing list, is also published. The professional ILCA staff is always on hand to assist both current and potential members. If you’re looking for a boat you can be proud to sail, one that offers dinghy handling with the performance of a sportboat, a refined design that’s free of fads, complete with the technology of today for both racing and daysailing

Get The Best Of Both Worlds. Get into a Lightning. See you on the water. David Dellenbaugh, former Lightning World Champion and starting helmsman for 1992

America’s Cup defender America3

The Top 10 Things I Like About The Lightning: 1. There’s Lightning racing almost everywhere. 2. Some of the best sailors in the world sail the Lightning. 3. Lightnings are available from more than one high-quality builder. 4. Lightnings even 20 years old are still competitive. 5. The boat is one of the best crew trainers on the water today. 6. The class is not so strict as to discourage experimentation which makes the boat faster and easier to sail. 7. The Lightning has interested the finest sailmakers in the world so the sails and the tuning guides look great and are easy to use. 8. The Lightning is a very roomy boat for daysailing. 9. Lightning sailors sail hard, but they’re not too cutthroat – someone’s always ready to answer questions. 10. The class management is as good as you’ll find in one-design sailing. For more information about the International Lightning or to arrange a test sail in your area, call or write to the address listed below.

Design: Sparkman & Stephens, 1938 Over 15000 built More than 500 fleets worldwide Length: 19’0″ (5.8m) Beam: 6’6″ (2m) Displacement: 700 lb (318 kg) Draft (board down): 4’11” (151.3cm) (board up): 5″ (12.8cm) Mast height: 26’2″ (7.9m) Sail area (main & jib): 177 sq.ft. (spinnaker): 300 sq.ft. Crew (racing): 3

Class website: http://www.lightningclass.org/index.asp

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One-Design Showcase

About the DN Iceboat

The Lightning offers a combination of performance and stability that eludes most one-designs. The Lightning’s hard chine and 130 lb centerboard give her the stability and power of a small keel boat going to weather in strong winds and allow her to carry a very large spinnaker for breathtaking off wind rides. The Lightning’s rig is simple, but offers sophisticated sail shape controls. 

Our 19-foot trailerable centerboard sloop has evolved into one of the most popular and competitive one-design racing classes in the world. Awarded ISAF International Class status, the Lightning is sailed in more than 13 countries and in the Pan American Games, and the class provides a professionally-managed association that is among the largest in all of one-design sailing. 

If you’re looking for a boat you can be proud to sail, one that offers dinghy handling with the performance of a sportboat, a refined design that’s free of fads, complete with the technology of today for both racing and daysailing – Get The Best Of Both Worlds. Get into a Lightning.

Class Information:

Class Contact:  Laura Jeffers, Executive Secretary

Class Contact Email:   [email protected]

Class Contact Phone:   727-942-7969

Class Website:   lightningclass.org

Social Media:   Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram  |  Youtube  

Class Specs

LOA:  19 ft. 

Beam:  6 ft. 6 in. 

Draft:  4 ft. 11 in. 

Weight:  700 lbs. 

Spark Plugs: The A Class’s Emmanuel Cerf

At the Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta St. Petersburg, the mover and shaker of the A Class catamaran fleet builds his world championship field of dreams.

Snowbirds Descend Upon the Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta St. Petersburg

Tampa Bay locals have it good year-round, but it’s more fun when winter’s escapees come to play.

The Lightning Rod

The boat builder goes beyond family legacy in the Lightning Class, he’s bringing fresh energy to this vintage fleet.

Inside the Class: Lightning

On the morning of the final race, we sat down with a Lightning class legend and the fleet’s next generation to see what they could learn from each other.

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• Sailboat Guide

1985 Lightning 19'

• Description

Seller's Description

Lightning 19’, 1985 Lightning #14009

located near St Louis, MO.

Comes with 3 complete sets of sails, trailer, brand new VSP top cover, measurement cert and clear titles for boat and trailer.

Very solid boat and still competitive. or phone 618-604-7157

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

One of the most popular one-design classes in the US since the 1940’s. But fleets also exist in other parts of the world. Although originally designed for wood planked construction, nearly all boats since the early 1960’s have been built of fiberglass. Ballast above is max weight of centerboard.

This listing is presented by SailingTexas.com . Visit their website for more information or to contact the seller.

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Family Sailing, World Class Racing... Best Of Both Worlds

The Lightning, a 19-foot trailerable centerboard sloop, was designed by Sparkman & Stephens as an affordable family day sailor and racing boat. The Lightning has evolved into one of the most popular and competitive one-design racing classes in the world. After 15,500 boats the International Lightning offers the toughest competition in one design!

The Lightning's rig is simple, but offers sophisticated sail shape controls. The hull features a hard chine design that combines the stability that provides sail-carrying power, with flat bottom sections that promote planing. New boats are being built in good numbers by two quality builders providing a stable supply of new and used boats. The boat is normally raced with a 3 person crew but in local club racing 2 or 4 person teams are accommodated. The Houston fleet has been building in recent year and has been the largest one design fleet at a number of HYC regattas in 2012 and 2013. The Lightning Texas District Championship held at HYC for the last 3 years has had 15-20 boats competing.

Lightning teams represent a wide spectrum of sailors and include National One Design Champions, families, sailing new comers, juniors (Ragnots) and experienced club racers. There is room for everyone who wants to come out and enjoy the physical and technical challenge of sailing a Lightning.

HYC recently hosted the very successful 2012 Lightning North American Championship with 55 boats and a prior event for the 2012 Women’s, Juniors and Masters Championship.

The local Lightning fleet program is built around HYC hosted regattas and series racing with additional Lightning fleet practice, tuning and race days. Some of the fleet travel to Southwest Circuit events and other regional/National/World events.

Get in touch …. We would like to welcome you to Houston Lightning sailing!

Lightning Fleet at HYC

Description and technical specifications.

LOA: 19’- 0’’ Beam: 6’- 6” Draft: 0’- 5” / 4’-11” Board up/down Weight: 700 lbs. Main: 120 sq. ft. Jib: 59 sq. ft. Spinnaker: 300 sq. ft.

HYC Lightning Contact: Ian Edwards Houston Fleet #521 Captain: Chris Shipman International Lightning Class Association Lightning Texas District

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Lightning Sailboat 19' build

Discussion in ' Boat Design ' started by FirstLight , Aug 21, 2012 .

FirstLight Junior Member

Have always loves this classic design from the board of Sparkman and Stevens. There's a small fleet here in our area. For a winter project I want to build one. There are several sets of offsets with the fast design that I've brought into Rhino. I'm trying to determine what the strongest\lightest build technique would be (no foam) for a one off lightning. Cold molding would seem the answer however the hard chine doesn't seem to fit the process as well. Then there is the frame method the Gougeon boys outline in their big blue bible. Any thoughts or ideas?? Cheers..  

gonzo Senior Member

Balsa planks core composite should be the lightest and stiffest. That design was made for carvel construction and has very easy lines.  

DCockey Senior Member

FirstLight said: ↑ Have always loves this classic design from the board of Sparkman and Stevens. There's a small fleet here in our area. For a winter project I want to build one. There are several sets of offsets with the fast design that I've brought into Rhino. I'm trying to determine what the strongest\lightest build technique would be (no foam) for a one off lightning. Cold molding would seem the answer however the hard chine doesn't seem to fit the process as well. Then there is the frame method the Gougeon boys outline in their big blue bible. Any thoughts or ideas?? Cheers.. Click to expand...

Petros Senior Member

I would recommend sticking with the rules, if you do not, not only will you not be allowed to sail in the races, it will not have much resale value when you are done with it. It appears there is no advantage to a lightweight build since rules require a 700 lb hull anyway. You might consider finding a used one and refurbish it, it will cost less and get you on the water faster.  

tunnels Previous Member

Are you into compatition or just playing about ?? Like has been said buy a second hand boat and refurbish it like new do a 100% strip of all and everything and scrape the paint off and respray etc etc But if the boat has a balsa cored hull you can bet 100% that it will be wet and heavy so theres you chance to do a rebuild rather than start from scratch !! To SAVE IN WEIGHT if you do a rebuild use balsa and what ever glass and then infuse it !!! will never be able to make it any lighter than that , use paints and not gelcoats Pick you glass carefully !!woven glass materials are thicker and so used more resin , differant cloths for differant uses ,also the type of glass ask and choose wisely , use epoxy resin and make sure you speak to the chemist if possible and get the strongest with a little flex . (Not all resins are born equal ). save weight every where possible . there could be raised eyebrows of you under weight but han always screw a lead block ti the middle to bring it to the minimum weight and as the boat gets older get it re weighed and change the lead block ! You not breaking the rules just bending them a little !! But, what do i know !  

sonosail SONOSAIL

Lightning class plans About 20 years ago the Lightning class created a new set of plans/rules for plywood contruction. I think one boat boat was built using the WEST system. rb  

philSweet Senior Member

They are wonderful boats but you should be aware that some of the top small boat builders in the country have built these things. Expectations for a wooden hulled Lightning will be very high among class members, and not just among the elite racers. The woodies used to have a very slight rules advantage over the glass boats and most of the national champs went with woodies. There is a ballast allowance of twenty pounds on the centerline. Any extra has to be distributed elsewhere. If I recall, the object of the game is to come in exactly twenty pounds light at 680 in measurement trim and then max out the centerline ballast allowance. So basically, you assemble your rig, lines, hardware kit,CB, and rudder and weigh that. Then build the whole thing with temp fasteners and carefully weigh it again. Then take it all apart and put it together permanently after any adjustments allowing for glue and paint and fairing putty. Am I dreaming or were the old hulls all double diagonal planked on the bottom. I used to sail on one until I was five. I soloed it on the Chesapeake. My parents were more than a little annoyed I took the boat out. But all I remember was the fun I had and Mr Keck coming out and asking me to please return to the dock. Then he motored back to the dock and let me sail her in. Mr Keck gets lots of points for letting me do that and not towing me in. I've sailed on them once or twice since then. Keep all of your reciepts and document the build as you go and ask lots of questions of the association members.  

sonosail said: ↑ About 20 years ago the Lightning class created a new set of plans/rules for plywood contruction. I think one boat boat was built using the WEST system. rb Click to expand...

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Old Boat.. Guys.. Great information!!! After looking through the options and debating building from scratch I opted against it. You guys made some good points. Thank you so much. A few weeks back I picked up a 1970's Lightning for $100. I figured I would see if it was worth rebuilding to have some fun with it. I posted a new link since I am down to the outer skin in one section. I am probably crazy for giving this a shot but if all goes bad I'll have about $300 invested and that's all. And if the hull goes away I have a brand new mast, new boom, new spinnaker, good set of practice sails and about $500 in Harken hardware, a trailer in great shape and a SST centerboard. I figured I'd try removing the foam core in one area and stiffening to see what I get. Here is the link. Once again. Any and all information greatly appreciated!!! Here is the link: http://www.boatdesign.net/forums/boat-design/help-repairing-19-lightning-sailboat-44433.html  

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• Lightning Sailboats

Lightning Sailboats Boats for sale

1970 Lightning 19

Deltaville, Virginia

Make Lightning

Category Daysailer Sailboats

Posted Over 1 Month

1970 Lightning 19 Lightning class racing sailboat on a trailer and ready to travel to her new home.

1974 Lightning Sloop

Stuart, Florida

Model Sloop

Category Sloop Sailboats

1974 Lightning Sloop Has no engine.  Does come with a single axle trailer that is roadworthy.  Hull and deck are both in good condition. Keel type is center board.  The sails are in good condition and are stored away in a bag.

Lightning Sailboat - fiberglass/wood - 2nd generation

Rochester, New York

Model Sailboat

Length 19.0

1969 19' Lightning Sailboat - fiberglass/wood - 2nd generation. Mast, sails, riggings, etc. included. Trailer and 20' hoist included. Original paperwork (Official measurement certificate). $2000 negotiable. (585) 727-4736 ask for Jim.

1970 Lippincott Boat Works Lightning

Vicksburg, Mississippi

Make Lippincott Boat Works

Model Lightning

Category Sailboats

1970 Lippincott Boat Works Lightning,Lippincott Lightning Sailboat Hull #11580Trailer is titled (new tires last year), and the boat has current MS registration. Bryant aluminum mast/boom, stainless centerboard.Two sets of sails (main, jib & spinnaker) North & Shore. Spinnaker poles and hiking straps. Nissan 2.5 hp outboard (for becalmed conditions). Boat is always covered, and comes with full, mast and cockpit covers.Im currently sailing the boat locally; looking for a smaller solo sailboat. $1000, 6016381943

2010 Island Packet Estero

Make Island Packet

Model Estero

2010 Island Packet Estero Just Reduced!! Winner of SAIL Magazine's 2010 Best Boats! This 2010 Island Packet Estero is a stunning boat! The Estero, named for an island off Florida, follows Island Packet tradition while exploring new ways to mix the elements. With all of the accommodations and amenities that are recognizable with Island Packet wrapped up in a 36 foot boat, there is no doubt this is an extraordinary and beautiful yacht. Below you will find amazing comfort and beauty with the gorgeous Mahogany Interior! The Wraparound Seating forward provides plenty of seating for entertaining and dining and surrounds a swivel table that makes maneuvering around much easier. You also have a flat screen tv with mast-mounted antenna for entertainment below. The cabin is bright and airy and all ports feature Peek-a-boo shades to provide cool shade when needed. Also, 5 overhead hatches are fitted with OceanAir Screens and Shades. There are 6 fans throughout the boat. You have a private owner's stateroom to port with an impressive, plush, memory foam mattress with custom covers, ample storage, and private access to head compartment that features a separate shower stall and freshwater head. The Galley features Acrylic Counter tops with 2 refrigeration compartment, two-burner Force 10 LPG Stove with oven and broiler, Microwave Oven, hot and cold pressure water, deep stainless steel sinks, and dish rack. "Papagayo" also features an upgraded electrical system, including:100 Amp Balmar alternatorCharles 40 Amp Battery Charger3 agm house bank batteries1 staring battery3 12v outlets Other added options on "Papagayo" include:ICOM 504 VHF with cockpit remoteRaymarine Autopilot ST6000DIGITAL Antenna for Cell Phone w/ wireless repeater/amplifierLightning MasterOGM LED Tri Anchor Light and PhotodiodeFolding WheelRub Rail option with SS strikerGreen Dodger, bimini, and connectorMuir Anchor WIndlassVetus BowthrusterFolding Glebe Creek companionway doors. The Island Packet Estero is packed with comfort, quality, and beauty! She is a well-maintained vessel, and she is looking for a new owner. Call Norton Yachts and let us help you step aboard this gorgeous yacht!

1967 Nautor Swan Sloop

Warwick, Rhode Island

Make Nautor Swan

1967 Nautor Swan Sloop “CURRENT PRICE” IS A GUIDE.  ALL OFFERS RESPECTFULLY CONSIDERED. General Description Swan 36 is a GRP constructed, fin keeled, one tonner masthead sloop and it is the first Swan sailing yacht ever produced. Production continued until 1971 with a total of 90 Swan 36 boats being built. The yacht was designed by Sparkman & Stephens who were the number one designers in the world at the time and also the designers of the first 775 Swan yachts built by Nautor. Its racing success is very much based on the designer's well timed decision to use a separate fin keel and rudder as opposed to the traditional full keel arrangement. This reduced the wetted surface area of the hull and thus also the frictional drag, which made the yacht faster and with the rudder placed further aft also more agile. Despite separate fin keel and a rudder had been used before in some of the Sparkman & Stephens' lighter sailboat designs such as the Lightning, this was the first time this arrangement was successfully used in production keelboats. For a short period of time this application made Swan 36 one of the fastest commercially available sailing yachts of its size and with a skilled crew she became the one to beat in the international sailing regattas. These yachts gained international recognition in 1968 when a Swan scored a result that no one had done before and won all seven starts of the year's Cowes Week regatta. Actual ConditionMisiu hull #59 is currently located in Venezuela where she has been overhauled between 2012-2015. New anti-slip cover, new chain plates. All wood interior is new. Motor installation new, wires, shaft, exhaust shaft. The mast has been painted. All rigging is new (2014). New lines, boat polyurethane paint, cushions, and main sail cover. Electric system is all new, as are the LED lights, wires, and pumps. All onboard is new! Ready to set sail! New exhaust system and muffler, new shaft, new racor, and new Teleflex wires. Plumbing and Tankage General: All new plumbing hoses. Accommodation: The Swan 36 has a very simple interior plan. Two quarter berths aft, the navigation station to port with a seat, the galley running alongside the starboard saloon with the dining table in the centre, the heads amidships forward, and the owner's private cabin forward, all beautifully varnished. In total there are 2 single berths, 2 double berths. EquipmentNavigation/Communications Equipment:Raymarine Ploter GPSVHF Galley: Single burner Coleman Deck Equipment: All new rigging (2014) Sails: 2 Main sails 1 Genova Anchoring & Mooring Equipment:Plough an

1982 CAPE DORY 28

Bristol, Rhode Island

1982 Cape Dory 28 This 1982 28' highly sought after Cape Dory sloop is located in NJ. The Cape Dory 28 offers her owner more practical cruising features combined in one design than other yachts of her size ... features such as a self-tending club footed jib for effortless windward sailing ... a bowsprit that incorporates an anchor roller ... and a large 2 cyl. 13 hp Volvo Diesel that adds safety and dependability. These features, when combined with the famous Alberg full keel and moderate, well-distributed sail plan result in a yacht that is easily handled by a minimum of crew. Her hefty displacement of 9,000 pounds, and her long keel with attached rudder allow the Cape Dory 28 to hold her course in a seaway. These features mean comfortable motion, stiffness, and security to all aboard. Other standard equipment such as bronze opening ports, lightning ground system, bronze seacocks on all thru-hull fittings and solid bronze hardware, reflect the determination of Cape Dory to supply a cruising boat of the highest standards.She has 2 sets of sails, one that is 2 years old, the other set are the original sails. Many improvements made in the past few years: 2010 – Replaced both the mainsail and jib. Sails were custom made by John Eggers, Inc. of South Amboy. The receipt for these is in the boat records.2010 – Installed a dual bilge-pump system. The Water Witch switches were replaced in 2013 for Tefgel Ultra Pump Switches. This summer the primary pump has stopped working, this will be replaced.2010 – During the current owners first haul-out they removed most of the bottom paint, primed with Primacon and gave a generous coat of Interlux Micron 66.2011 – Replaced two batteries for Seavolt 650 and replaced the battery charger for a ProMariner, proSport series heavy duty unit.2011 – Serviced all Spartan seacocks. The seacock maintenance kit, purchased in 2011 is coming with the boat.2012 – Prepared and applied a coat of Micron 66 bottom paint.2012 – Treated the bow chain-plate in the rope locker with POR-15 rust inhibitor.2012 – Installed a Speedseal quick-change impeller system. The quick-change kit comes with the boat.2012 – Replaced the bob-stay after noticing cracks on the swag fitting. This was made by John Eggers, Inc.2013 – Replaced main and Jib halyards.2013 – Rebuilt battery box out of King Starboard.2013 – Full service of the head with replacement of the ball valve.2013 – Re-stuffed stuffing box.2013 – During the winter the wind-vane of the point of sail gauge blew off. They have bought a new vane but have not installed it yet. The new wind-vane will come with the boat.

2012 Precision 185

St. Paul, Minnesota

Make Precision

Length 18'5''

Designer Comments: The first offerings from PRECISION BOATWORKS nearly 20 years ago were open daysailors with a focus on good all around performance, and they have come full circle with their new PRECISION 185. In the interim, all but one of our eight previous PRECISION designs have featured enclosed interiors as part of their appeal. Only the PRECISION 15 (and PRECISION 15K) have been open boats, offering the joy of small boat sailing in its purest, simplest form. The P-15 design focused on stability, safety, lively performance and reliable handling, and she has been a huge success. The new PRECISION 185 expands on the broad appeal of her smaller sister by adding an extra dose of acceleration and speed to her performance profile. The *big daysailor* type is still probably best defined by the Lightning, Rhodes 19 and Flying Scott, all old favorites introduced nearly forty years ago. There has not been a great deal of innovation and development in this market for some time, and various new offerings have come and gone without making much of an impact. The PRECISION 185 will make her mark by using true state-of-the-art design and construction technology to combine vastly improved ergonomics and higher performance with low weight, low maintenance, and low cost. Comfortable seating, computer-shaped hull and fins, and precise tooling will all contribute to the appeal of this *new century* competitor. Like her smaller sister, the PRECISION 185 features a large, self-draining cockpit, a secure spot for a portable ice chest, practical under-deck storage, straightforward rigging, and high quality hardware. Her swim platform at the transom is an unusual feature usually reserved for large offshore cruisers. In addition to contributing to the fun by getting swimmers back aboard more easily and allowing youngsters to trail their toes in water, this *back porch* can contribute to safety by facilitating boarding from a dinghy, and recovering from an accidental *man overboard* incident more easily and quickly. The performance parameters of the PRECISION 185 are not intended to put her in the realm of a *crash and burn* Australian 18 skiff, but they will give her the kind of acceleration and speed that will turn heads and quicken the pulse when desired. She will offer speed, stability and control over a wide range of conditions that will be the envy of both her classic and contemporary competitors. She will sail beautifully under main alone when shorthanded or in heavy weather. Her broad deck beam and high-volume side decks will help keep her crew dry, and maximize her resistance to capsize. She shares the careful balance and dynamic stability that have earned the PRECISION 15, 165, 18, 21, 23 and 28 their well-earned reputations as lively, reliable performers in all conditions. PRECISION BOAT WORKS continues to focus entirely on small boats, and their long experience and expertise in this market is second to none. They have built all of our PRECISION designs with meticulous care, and their commitment to high- quality construction is unwavering. We share their pride in everything they build, and we are confident that the new PRECISION 185 will quickly earn her place as a worthy addition to their well-respected line. Please Contact If you have Questions, Delivery is an option, Call Kevin at Hi-Tempo 651-429-3333 or Email.

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Lightning Sailboat Parts & Equipment

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Class description.

The Lightning, a 19-foot trailerable centerboard sloop, designed by Sparkman & Stephens as an affordable family day sailor and racing boat. She has evolved into one of the most popular and competitive one-design racing classes in the world. The Lightning's rig is simple, but offers sophisticated sail shape controls. The hull features a unique hard chine design that combines the stability that provides sail-carrying power, with flat bottom sections that promote planing. There's room in the cockpit for two couples or a family to daysail. The Lightning is easy to launch and light enough to trailer with ease. In the event of a capsize, she can be righted and sailed dry by her crew. Get "The Best of Both Worlds.

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Lightning 19' mast stepping, help need..

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Help I bought a Lightning Class 19' sailboat. The seller, a friend and myself nearly killed ourselves stepping the mast. The mast is 26 ft long and must be dropped vertically into a small hole in fore deck. We nearly dropped it on the seller's car. I was told to use a gin pole, is that the best and safest way. I am now sorry I bought the great boat, and have not even sailed yet. I hate doing dangerous things for fun.  

I've owned two Lightnings, and thought I learned my lesson with the first one until I got given the second on a "get it out of my yard" deal. Between them, they taught me that "wood boat" and "maintenance" are two terms that never get very far from each other. Getting the mast up and down is the biggest pain in the neck. I think the boat was designed to be kept at a dock or a mooring, and the mast only cycled up and down once a season, if that. I rigged a temporary stop for the base of the mast which clamped to the deck, and a temporary baby stay arrangement to help keep the mast under control going up and down. A gin pole wouldn't help without those two items. I could lift the mast up by myself without any real problems, but keeping it under control was always an iffy proposition. Realistically, you need to have two, three, or more people to keep things under control, mostly just holding onto the stays and shrouds. Once I figured out how to do it, I got it down to the point where my wife and I could get the mast up and down fairly easily. That much said, they are fun when they are finally on the water, but they were not designed to be a trailer sailer.  

Thanks, I will leave it up and when it comes down I'll take a crowd of friends.  

Good luck. The last summer I owned a Lightning I was able to find a place where I could leave it parked on the trailer with the mast up. That simplified things a lot. If you can get a crowd to help you get it down, it will help if you have someone up on the deck to keep the base of the mast under control while you lower it. I would suggest trying to raise it with the base of the mast on the deck. We tried raising it from the ground and lifting it vertically to the deck one time, and found we REALLY needed a bunch of people to do that.  

Thank you. I am leaving it up also, in a storage lot. I can pull it to the boat ramp with the mast up.  

I stepped the mast on my Lightning with just 2 people but it was not fun or easy. Three or more makes it that much easier. The method I resorted to using most often involved the use of a nearby tree limb. I'd use my fishing pole to get a sinker or lure over the tree limb. Then I'd tie the fishing line to a working line with a block tied to the end and pull the working line over the tree limb. Another line was put through the block before hoisting that was used as a lightweight crane for lifting or lowering the mast with a bowline that rides up to the spreaders. Kind of a pain to set all this up but it made the whole procedure easy enough for my wife and a to do it alone. I had a village mooring permit ($25/year) and a 50# mushroom anchor I used to keep it on the water in season. Great little boat but a PITA to set up or break down.  

CalebD said: I stepped the mast on my Lightning with just 2 people but it was not fun or easy. Three or more makes it that much easier. The method I resorted to using most often involved the use of a nearby tree limb. I'd use my fishing pole to get a sinker or lure over the tree limb. Then I'd tie the fishing line to a working line with a block tied to the end and pull the working line over the tree limb. Another line was put through the block before hoisting that was used as a lightweight crane for lifting or lowering the mast with a bowline that rides up to the spreaders. Kind of a pain to set all this up but it made the whole procedure easy enough for my wife and a to do it alone. I had a village mooring permit ($25/year) and a 50# mushroom anchor I used to keep it on the water in season. Great little boat but a PITA to set up or break down.[/QUOTE I can find a tree. Thanks Click to expand...

I have a lightning and every time I take it out I have to step the mast and take it down. It really isn't bad, but there are a few tricks that help, assuming an aluminum (not wooden) mast. 1. Don't step the mast yourself unless you have a mast hoist. I did this and dropped it on my friend's roof. When I bought my mast I watched the elderly gentleman I bought it from do this like it was nothing. He had some tricks, but I prefer not to mess with it. 2. Prepare the mast before you put it up, get all the shrouds laying out beside it just as if it were already up. Make sure the forestay is in the front, backstay in the back, etc. Use rigging tape or electrical tape to tape around the plugs that go into the spreader so that if they don't come out and allow the mast to snap. 3. Prepare the inside of the boat so that the mast can just slip right in and you don't have anything to snag on. 4. Use the trailer tire or a friend's foot positioned at the butt of the mast while "walking" the mast up until it is vertical. Once the mast is vertical it is very easy to keep that way unless you let it start leaning. 5. Have a friend balance the mast while you hop up on the boat. Make sure you place a life jacket on the deck so you can rest the mast down later if necessary. 6. Have your friend hold the bottom of the mast with both hands close together. You stand on the boat and keep your hands far apart on the mast. This allows you to control the mast while your friend simply lifts STRAIGHT up. As the mast goes up, make sure that it stays vertical. As you get it over the boat, slowly move it over the opening, making sure to keep it vertical. This takes some coordination with your friend but after you've done it a few times it gets easier. 7. As you lower the mast in, again, insure you don't snag on anything and that it fits snugly into the step. Once it is in, connect the forestay and it will be able to stand on it's own. There are several ways to connect the shrouds, but insure they are the proper tension (or close). To take down the mast, do the same in reverse. For more info check out: Welcome to the International Lightning Class The tuning guides will help alot. As to leaving the mast stepped, if you can do it, then do it! But, don't let it scare you. The Lightning is a great boat and a blast to sail. Where are you sailing from? There are Lightning fleets all over and someone there will be happy to teach you to set up your rig. Good to see other Lightning sailors on Sailnet! Andy  

I have a Cape Dory 25 and I raise and lower the mast single handed. It's easy. Get a copy of "The Sailor's Sketchbook" by Bruce Bingham, Seven Seas Press for full details. I paid $4.00 for it on Alibris. That's one way. The other is building a large A frame, and raising the mast by pushing up on an extension ladder, till you can hoist from the frame. How much do you want for your Lightning? Dick  

This is a great boat in spite of the mast ordeal, if needed I can hire someone to build a hoist or hire a crew to put the mast up in the Spring . It has 3 mains 2 are very good and one is like new. One is cut for a storm main. It has 3 jibs all good to great. It has 2 spins and a canvas boom tent. It has a good trailer. I sailed it today in light air and it performed well. It is a 66 glass boat but has lived inside. It had new epoxy paint by a pro 5 years ago. It look more like a 1996 that 1966. I was just shocked that it was such a PITA to put up a mast. I have been sailing over 35 years and had no idea a 19 ft, boat's mast was such task. Having said all that I think it is a keeper after all. Few people would want a boat this old at the price I was willing to pay but the former owner took care of it. I would sell it for 5 thousand.  

The problem isn't so much raising the mast -- that's relatively easy -- but keeping the mast under control while setting it down vertically about three feet through a hole in the deck to get the base of the mast into the mast step, which is located on the keel.  

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Sailboat Lightning, 19 ft., Hull number 8934, year 1965

• Price: Contact seller
• Condition: Used
• Make: Lightning
• Location: Clinton, Massachusetts, United States

Description

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19 ft Lightning Daysailer Sailboat

1983 lightning.

• Condition: Used
• Make: Lightning
• Location: Montclair, New Jersey, United States

Description

Lightning 13625. This was a fast boat for many years of club racing, and was once owned by Louis Nickels and has sailed in the Worlds and other championship regattas. She is beautifully balanced, and especially quick downwind,and has most of the 1980's updates. The hull is in great shape with only 2 professional repairs. There are no blisters on the bottom. The flexible mast is in good condition with one epoxy repair at the base, and the boom has been stored inside so it is practically new. The port fore deck delaminated and needs proper repair to maintain hull/deck integrity. The fiberglass/laminaterudder is in v. good shape. She has all Harken jam cleats,air blocks or bullet blocks and top quality lines. The stainless steel centerboard is raised with the drum system, and the jib downhaul isblock adjusted.

The sails are the hidden prize of this boat. All North Sails, she has two of everything: one good spinnaker and 4-year-old main and jib for everyday use, and a very recent set with only 2 seasons and brand new all-yellow spinnaker only used 3 times. She also has a 2 season old full body cover with embroidered number.

The trailer is serviceable withan original bed and self-lubricating hubs.

• Bass Tracker
• Boston Whaler
• Carver Boats
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• Grady White
• Hydra-Sports
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• Other makes
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• Sun Tracker