Mariner Centaur Information, Review, Specs

The Mariner Centaur's production began in 1976, originating from the esteemed Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd. in Taiwan. During this era, Ta Shing had already established a formidable reputation as a premier Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), known for its meticulous craftsmanship and robust construction methods, often featuring solid fiberglass hulls and premium interior finishes. The company's ethos emphasized foundational strength and durability, traits evident in the Centaur's specifications.

The design by George Stadel III, a member of a notable family of American boat designers, aligns with a tradition of creating capable cruising vessels. The Mariner Centaur features a full keel, a classic design choice that contributes significantly to directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway, albeit at the expense of maneuverability in tight quarters and ultimate speed. The limited production run of just four boats suggests a semi-custom or specialized build, characteristic of Ta Shing's bespoke approach to yacht construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 600 square feet and a substantial displacement of 21,000 pounds, the Mariner Centaur exhibits characteristics typical of a heavy, traditional cruising yacht. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 12.6 indicates that it carries a relatively modest amount of sail for its weight. This suggests the Centaur is a boat that will be steady and forgiving in heavier winds and more challenging conditions, but may struggle to achieve high speeds or perform optimally in lighter air.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.26, while not exceptionally high, is complemented by its full keel. This design ensures a low center of gravity for the ballast, contributing to the boat's overall stability and ability to stand up to a breeze. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 384.3 firmly places the Mariner Centaur in the category of heavy displacement cruisers. This high ratio is indicative of a vessel designed for comfort and resilience during extended voyages rather than a focus on racing performance. With a hull speed of 7.22 knots, the Centaur is engineered for steady, comfortable passage-making.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the Mariner Centaur, while specific details are scarce due to the boat's limited production, would have been crafted to Ta Shing's high standards. Ta Shing is widely recognized for its commitment to hand-crafted quality, utilizing premium woods and hand-joined cabinetry. It is reasonable to expect an interior that prioritizes seaworthy comfort and robust construction. Typical for a cruising yacht of its length (34 feet overall with a 29-foot waterline), the accommodations would likely feature a conventional arrangement including a V-berth forward, a main saloon area with settees and a table, a galley, and a navigation station. Storage would have been ample, designed to support extended periods at sea. The emphasis would have been on durable materials and a functional, seagoing design, consistent with Ta Shing's reputation for building high-quality, custom bluewater cruising yachts.