Snapdragon Yachts began their journey in the early 1960s, under the vision of Thames Marine Ltd., a company founded by entrepreneurs Arthur and Dick Giles. Based in New Bradwell near Milton Keynes, England, Snapdragon quickly became known for building robust cruising sailboats. These yachts were designed to offer durability, stability, and comfort, catering to the growing demand for family cruising vessels during the post-war recreational boating boom.The hallmark of Snapdragon boats was their affordability without compromising on reliability and seaworthiness. Their range included various models like the Snapdragon 24, 670, and 890, which became quite popular among sailing enthusiasts. The designs were characterized by bilge keels, which allowed the boats to take the ground gracefully, making them suitable for coastal cruising where tidal conditions could vary significantly.In the late 1980s, the demand for kit boats and DIY sailing vessels started to decline, impacting the traditional market of companies like Snapdragon. While Thames Marine Ltd. ceased production, the legacy of Snapdragon Yachts endures in the second-hand market, where these boats are still revered and widely used. Today, enthusiasts maintain and sail vintage Snapdragons, keeping the spirit of this classic British yacht manufacturer alive.