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Sailboat Specifications

Sparrow 12

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Transom Hung Rudder

Designed by Herb Stewart · Built by Northshore Marine Inc. · First built 1976

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LOA 12.01 ft  ·  Beam 5.68 ft  ·  Displacement 351.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 73.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Transom Hung Rudder
About the Sparrow 12 Sailboat

Compact, nimble, and approachable, the Sparrow 12 is a small sailboat that appeals to beginners and experienced sailors alike who are looking for an entry-level vessel with genuine character. Designed for sheltered and coastal waters, this little boat offers an accessible platform for learning the fundamentals of sailing without overwhelming new enthusiasts, while still providing enough responsiveness to keep seasoned sailors engaged. With limited specification data widely available, the Sparrow 12 remains something of a quieter presence in the broader sailboat market, though its compact proportions suggest a focus on simplicity and ease of handling. Boats of this size and class are typically well-suited to lakes, rivers, estuaries, and calm coastal bays, making them practical choices for sailors who want to get out on the water regularly without the complexity or cost of a larger vessel. For those researching a first boat or a manageable daysailer for relaxed recreational use, the Sparrow 12 deserves consideration. Its modest scale keeps maintenance straightforward and trailering or storage relatively hassle-free — practical advantages that matter greatly to everyday sailors.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 12.01 ft / 3.66 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 10.93 ft / 3.33 m
Beam 5.68 ft / 1.73 m
Max Draft 1.67 ft / 0.51 m
Displacement 351.00 lb / 159 kg
Ballast 130.00 lb / 59 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 73.00 ft² / 6.78 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/transom hung rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Herb Stewart
Builder Northshore Marine Inc.
First Built 1976
Related Sailboats Oday 12 · Phoenix 12 · Howmar 12 · Montgomery 12 · Sunchaser I
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sparrow 12's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Sparrow 12 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 23.5. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Sparrow 12's comfort ratio?

The Sparrow 12 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 4.76. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Sparrow 12 safe for offshore sailing?

The Sparrow 12 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 3.22. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Sparrow 12?

The theoretical hull speed of the Sparrow 12 is 4.43 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Sparrow 12 weigh?

The Sparrow 12 has a displacement of 351.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 12.01 ft.

Who designed the Sparrow 12?

The Sparrow 12 was designed by Herb Stewart, first built in 1976.