Magnifik Midget Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Magnifik Midget is characterized by its high displacement-to-length ratio, which translates to a stable and predictable motion in a seaway. Unlike lighter, modern fin-keel boats of the same length, the Midget’s modified long keel and significant ballast ratio allow it to track exceptionally well, reducing the workload on the helm during long coastal reaches. According to historical technical summaries from the Swedish Maritime Museum (Sjöhistoriska Museet), the boat was designed to be stiff, meaning it resists excessive heeling even when the wind picks up, a trait that endears it to shorthanded sailors and families.

Under sail, the masthead rig provides a versatile sail plan. While it may not be a "grayhound" in light airs due to its wetted surface area, it excels in moderate to heavy conditions where its momentum helps it punch through chop. Owners frequently report that the boat feels much larger than its 7-meter length would suggest, offering a sense of security that is rare for a vessel of this size. The rudder is skeg-protected, which not only aids in tracking but also provides a layer of defense against debris or grounding.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Magnifik Midget is a masterclass in 1960s space efficiency, though it remains constrained by the boat’s low profile. The layout typically features a classic four-berth arrangement: a V-berth forward and two settee berths in the main cabin. Because the boat was designed with a sleek, low coachroof to maintain its aesthetic lines, headroom is limited—generally around 1.45 meters (4'9")—meaning most adults will be sitting or stooping while below deck.

The joinery is typically traditional Scandinavian teak or mahogany, providing a warm, seaworthy atmosphere. Storage is tucked under the berths and in small lockers, suitable for weekend trips rather than long-term liveaboard use. While there are no significant "sibling" variants in terms of hull length (such as a stretched 25-foot version), there were minor iterations throughout its production run, primarily involving the transition from wooden to aluminum window frames and variations in the galley layout. Some later models featured a more refined interior liner, which improved insulation and ease of cleaning compared to the earlier, more utilitarian builds.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Magnifik Midget should prioritize a thorough inspection of the hull and deck, as these boats are now several decades old.

• Osmosis: Like many early fiberglass boats from the 1960s and 70s, the hull may be prone to osmotic blistering if it hasn't been treated with an epoxy barrier coat.
• Deck Core: The deck is a sandwich construction; check for "soft spots" which indicate moisture ingress and delamination of the core material, particularly around the chainplates and stanchion bases.
• Rudder Bushings: The skeg-hung rudder can develop play over time. Inspect the bushings and the attachment points for signs of wear or structural fatigue.
• Keel Bolts: While the keel is encapsulated in many versions, those with external ballast should have their keel bolts inspected for "weeping" or corrosion.
• Rigging Age: Many Midgets still carry older gold-anodized masts. Check for corrosion at the spreader roots and ensure the standing rigging has been replaced within the last decade.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the "Midgetklubben" (The Midget Club), a Swedish-based association that maintains technical archives, sail plans, and a register of known hulls. The club is the most authoritative source for restorative advice and historical build data. Additionally, because Olle Enderlein’s work is of significant historical interest in Sweden, the Swedish Maritime Museum holds original drawings and specifications for the model as part of its digital collection.

The Verdict

The Magnifik Midget is an ideal choice for the sailor who values traditional aesthetics and seaworthiness over interior volume and modern planing performance. It is a "sailor's boat" that rewards those who appreciate the security of a heavy-displacement hull.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and sea-kindliness for its size.
• Timeless, elegant Scandinavian lines designed by Olle Enderlein.
• Robust construction capable of handling coastal passages.
• Affordable entry point into keelboat ownership.

Cons:

• Very limited headroom (less than 5 feet).
• Sluggish performance in very light winds.
• The age of the fleet requires careful inspection for osmosis and deck rot.
• The cabin is cramped for more than two adults for extended periods.