Snapdragon 890 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Snapdragon 890 began its production in 1971, emerging from the Thames Marine yard, an entity that evolved from Thames Structural Plastics. Thames Marine, founded in 1959, quickly pivoted from general fiberglass component manufacturing to boat building, recognizing the burgeoning demand for GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) yachts. Their design philosophy centered on creating accessible and robust cruisers, a hallmark reflected in the Snapdragon series. A defining characteristic of many Thames Marine designs, including the 890, was the incorporation of twin keels. This feature allowed for safe drying out in tidal berths and exploration of shallower anchorages, a significant advantage for sailors in the UK. Production of the Snapdragon 890 likely concluded around 1981, when Thames Marine ceased operations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Snapdragon 890, with a length overall of 29 feet and a waterline length of 24 feet, is designed as a capable coastal cruiser. Its sailing performance can be interpreted through its key ratios:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D): At approximately 15.55, the Snapdragon 890 suggests a moderate level of sail power. This indicates a boat that, while not a light-air flyer, should offer reasonable performance across a range of wind conditions without being overly demanding to sail.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D): With a ratio of 0.40, the 890 possesses a substantial amount of ballast relative to its displacement. This contributes significantly to its stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L): Calculated at approximately 242, the Snapdragon 890 falls into the medium-heavy displacement category. This ratio aligns with its reputation as a robust and resilient vessel, built to handle rough conditions, making it a superb choice for "east coast cruising."

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Snapdragon's strong build quality and resilience. Its twin keel design, while enabling shallow draft capabilities, provides reliable tracking and stability. The boat is generally considered forgiving to sail, embodying the practical and sturdy cruising characteristics Thames Marine aimed to achieve.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Snapdragon 890 is designed for comfort and practicality, typically offering generous space for a boat of its size. The layout commonly includes berths for four to five individuals across the saloon and a forward cabin. While specific details on materials and finish can vary between individual boats due to age and owner modifications, the general design prioritizes functional living space for cruising. Amenities often include a gas cooker, catering to the needs of a cruising family. The reputation for spacious interiors among Snapdragon models generally extends to the 890, making it a comfortable choice for extended weekends or coastal voyages.