Silhouette Mk Iii Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Hurley Marine Ltd., under the vision of George Hurley, began its journey into production boat building in 1958 with the original "Silhouette" cruisers, initially crafted from marine ply. The company rapidly embraced fiberglass, a material that would become synonymous with its durable output. The Silhouette Mk III, introduced in 1967, marked a pivotal evolution in the series. It was the result of a significant redesign from its predecessor, the Mk II, transitioning from a hard-chine hull to a more contemporary round bilge design.

Designer Robert Tucker conceived the Mk III to retain the Silhouette's fundamental dimensions while integrating substantial improvements. This redesign notably included a 40% increase in sail area and the adoption of fiberglass molded bilge keels with internal ballast. Reflecting Hurley Marine's core ethos, the Mk III embodied the builder's commitment to producing accessible, well-built, and seaworthy cruising yachts that appealed to families and offered reliability for both coastal and more adventurous sailing. Manufacturing standards during this period were exceptionally high, with Mk III boats proudly carrying a Lloyds Series Production quality mark. For added flexibility, an optional inboard engine was also available. Following the success of the Mk III, a limited production Mk 4 version was offered from 1973-1974, based on the Mk III design but featuring an expanded four-berth layout.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Silhouette Mk III was consciously engineered as a capable seagoing yacht, with its design prioritizing robust seakeeping qualities. Its round bilge hull, a key departure from the Mk II, likely contributed to a smoother and more comfortable motion through the water. The boat is often celebrated as a highly competent pocket cruiser, known for handling conditions well beyond what its length might suggest.

Equipped with twin (bilge) keels as standard, the Mk III offered a shallow draft of 2.08 feet, making it particularly suitable for exploring tidal estuaries and allowing for convenient drying out on suitable bottoms. A fin keel option was also available, drawing 2.67 feet. Owners consistently report that the boat feels stable and behaves predictably, attributes crucial for a smaller cruiser. The hull's clean lines were designed to minimize turbulence, enhancing its passage through the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Silhouette Mk III is characterized by a practical, albeit compact, layout, typical for a yacht of its modest 17.25-foot length. With a maximum headroom of 3.6 feet, the accommodations provide essential shelter and functionality. The standard configuration typically includes two berths, offering comfortable sleeping arrangements for a weekend crew.

While specific interior details are limited in historical records, the focus was undoubtedly on maximizing usable space within the hull. Given the small dimensions, owners often describe the interior as snug or "cramped", a common trade-off for the excellent seakeeping abilities of such a small vessel. The use of internal ballast within the fiberglass bilge keels helped to optimize the interior volume somewhat, as it eliminated the need for external ballast that would otherwise consume valuable space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hurley Silhouette Mk III consistently praise its solid construction and surprising seaworthiness for a boat of its size. These vessels are cherished as affordable, classic fiberglass yachts, renowned for their strength and reliability, which aligns perfectly with Hurley Marine's original design philosophy. Many owners find the Mk III manageable for single-handed or short-handed sailing, appreciating its straightforward handling characteristics.

The enduring appeal of the Silhouette Mk III is further evidenced by a vibrant community of enthusiasts. Active organizations like the "Silhouette Owner's International Association" and the "Hurley Owners Association" connect owners, share resources, and help preserve the history of these beloved boats 1, 7, Builder Article. While the interior space is often noted as limited, owners typically accept this as a characteristic of a pocket cruiser designed for robust performance rather than luxurious living. The continued active use and strong community support highlight the lasting quality and thoughtful design that defined the Silhouette Mk III during its production.