snapdragon

[jack_tar]

Any advice to someone about to buy a snapdragon 21 as first yacht ?

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[Gunfleet]

Buy a 24 or 670. Only a couple of feet longer but a lot more yacht. And be patient. THere are loads of Snappies and the one you want will come up in the fullness of time.

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[CJU]

It would be good first step to join the owners club. There are very often boats for sale in the club news letter and the club is a mine of useful info. Try 01702479578 for more details

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[jack_tar]

thanks for the advice, but I am about to buy the a bilge keel 21. I understand that there are limitations with this craft but essentially I want something that is bomb proof to learn in, my understanding is that the 21,s are not so good up into the wind but also that this may be the case with most bilge keel yachts to a degree. any further adive would be greatfully received


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[jack_tar]

thanks I am out of the UK at the moment but will try when I get home. Any usefull web sites

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[Stemar]

I'd second the comment about getting a 24 if you can. They're a much bigger boat, also bilge keeled, and also built like a tank. Safe, seaworthy and forgiving - to my mind an ideal first boat, especially if, like me, you have a crew for whom some creature comforts are more important than absolute sailing ability.

If wind and tide conspire against you, use the engine, or you'll become very familiar with your current location, and keep her upright if you don't want to go sideways, but off the wind, I've surprised much bigger boats. I suspect the 21 would be similar, but more so.

I got a 24 as my first boat last year, and am delighted with her. She wouldn't be my first choice for the ARC, but I know people who take Snappies across the Channel and the Irish Sea. When I've a bit more experience. I intend to join them.

Have a look at: http://www.apolloduck.co.uk/ and http://www.boatsandoutboards.co.uk

Good luck!



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[maxi]

Good boat, but a 'steady' performer rather than exciting. What is the power plant? I would suggest that you steer clear of the Vire engine if possible, and the 24' is ceretainly a lot more boat for not a lot more money, an old 26 also represents a good prospect.

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[CJU]

I don't know of any for the Snappy (as all the Snapdragons seem to be known). There is one for the Mirage 28 http://www.sailingboatefaki.gr/index.htm , which was also made by Thames Marine. I have not read anything untoward in the club mag and their are 14 registered with the club. Perhaps the secretary would know an owner who could give you more info. There is a mk1 (o/b in a well) and mk2 (o/b over the stern). They sleep 4, the main is 105 sq ft, genoa 135 sq ft, draft 2' 6", displacement 2200 lbs, headroom 4' 10", or so it says in the members handbook. Good luck and don't forget to join the club if you buy.

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