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Sailboat Specifications

Silhouette Mk Ii

Masthead Sloop · Twin Keel

Designed by Robert Tucker · Built by Ferrier Marine/Hurley Marine Ltd. · First built 1955

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LOA 17.66 ft  ·  Beam 6.58 ft  ·  Displacement 1,100.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 120.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Twin Keel
About the Silhouette Mk Ii Sailboat

A classic of British sailing history, the Silhouette Mk II holds a special place in the hearts of many sailors who took their first steps into boat ownership aboard one of these compact and characterful vessels. Designed as an accessible and affordable small cruiser, it earned a loyal following throughout the mid-twentieth century and remains a recognisable sight on UK coastal waters and inland waterways today. Built for the weekend sailor and first-time buyer, the Silhouette Mk II is best suited to sheltered coastal cruising and estuary sailing, offering a forgiving and manageable platform for those still developing their seamanship. Its modest size makes it easy to single-hand or sail as a couple, and its simplicity keeps maintenance demands low — an appealing quality for budget-conscious owners. While detailed specifications can be difficult to come by, the boat's enduring popularity speaks to a practical, well-balanced design that prioritises ease of use over outright performance. For those seeking an affordable entry into cruising with a touch of vintage character, the Silhouette Mk II continues to represent genuine charm and historical appeal.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 17.66 ft / 5.38 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 12.50 ft / 3.81 m
Beam 6.58 ft / 2.01 m
Max Draft 1.67 ft / 0.51 m
Displacement 1,100.00 lb / 499 kg
Ballast 400.00 lb / 181 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 120.00 ft² / 11.15 m²
Headroom 3.62 ft / 1.10 m
Design & Construction
Hull Type Twin Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction Plywood/FG
Designer Robert Tucker
Builder Ferrier Marine/Hurley Marine Ltd.
First Built 1955
Last Built 1965
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Silhouette Mk Ii's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Silhouette Mk Ii has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.05. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Silhouette Mk Ii's comfort ratio?

The Silhouette Mk Ii has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 9.83. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Silhouette Mk Ii safe for offshore sailing?

The Silhouette Mk Ii has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.55. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Silhouette Mk Ii?

The theoretical hull speed of the Silhouette Mk Ii is 4.74 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Silhouette Mk Ii weigh?

The Silhouette Mk Ii has a displacement of 1,100.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 17.66 ft.

Who designed the Silhouette Mk Ii?

The Silhouette Mk Ii was designed by Robert Tucker, first built in 1955.