Midjet Information, Review, Specs

As one of La Prairie's notable models, the Midjet, also sometimes referred to as the Midget 580, represents a period when fiberglass technology enabled the mass production of recreational boats, allowing more individuals to experience the joys of the water. Its popularity during its production run, with approximately 380 units built, solidified its place as a reliable and approachable small sailboat.

History and Design

The Midjet's production span from 1967 to 1977 falls squarely within La Prairie's operational decade, a period characterized by the company's rapid growth and significant output in the European marine industry. La Prairie, active between 1965 and 1978, became one of France's largest manufacturers of dinghies and small sailboats, producing an astonishing 5,000 boats annually at its peak. This high-volume approach suggests a manufacturing philosophy centered on efficiency, standardization, and the use of fiberglass, which was then a revolutionary material for mass-produced recreational vessels.

The Midjet was designed by Georges Auzepy-Brenneur, a French maritime designer. While specific details on Auzepy-Brenneur's design philosophy for this particular model are not extensively documented, the Midjet's characteristics—a fin keel, transom-hung rudder, and fractional sloop rig—point towards a design optimized for ease of handling and solid performance in a small package. La Prairie's overall identity was built on creating functional, accessible boats, and the Midjet likely benefited from this approach, offering a sturdy platform for new sailors and those seeking a low-maintenance craft. Variations in the production run are not widely reported, suggesting a consistent design throughout its decade of manufacture.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its compact 19-foot length, the Midjet is characterized by its nimble handling and responsiveness, typical of smaller sailboats. Its fin keel and transom-hung rudder contribute to a direct feel at the tiller and good maneuverability. While specific detailed reviews of the Midjet's sailing performance are scarce, small fiberglass monohulls of this era were generally designed to be forgiving and predictable, making them suitable for beginners or those transitioning from dinghies to keelboats.

The fractional sloop rig provides a manageable sail plan, allowing for easy reefing in stronger winds and good performance in light to moderate conditions. These boats are generally known for being easy to trailer and launch, expanding their cruising grounds beyond a single home port. Owners likely appreciate its simplicity and the joy of sailing without the complexities of larger vessels.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 19-foot sailboat, the Midjet offers basic accommodations designed for day-sailing or short overnight trips rather than extended cruising. Interior details are limited in available specifications, with no listed maximum headroom. Given its size, any interior space would likely consist of a simple open-plan cabin, potentially featuring a V-berth forward for sleeping and perhaps minimal seating along the hull sides.

Storage would be at a premium, with lockers beneath berths or limited shelving. Ventilation would typically rely on a forward hatch and the main companionway. The general finish quality, consistent with La Prairie's high-volume, affordable production, would likely involve practical fiberglass surfaces, potentially complemented by some simple wood trim for warmth and aesthetic appeal. The focus would have been on functionality and durability over luxurious appointments.

Owner's Perspectives

Information regarding owner's perspectives specifically for the La Prairie Midjet is not widely documented in public forums or reviews. While La Prairie produced a significant number of boats, the lack of a formally documented active owner community makes it challenging to synthesize collective viewpoints on strengths, weaknesses, or common maintenance issues. Owners of similar small, older fiberglass boats often praise their robust construction and simple systems, which contribute to ease of maintenance and longevity. Conversely, potential weaknesses might include age-related issues such as deteriorating original deck fittings, which could lead to leaks, or the need for updated electrical and plumbing systems. The simplicity of the Midjet, however, would likely make such repairs more manageable for a motivated owner.