Mango 52 (Amel) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Amel Mango 52 lies within the Chantiers Amel shipyard, established in La Rochelle in 1965 by the visionary Henri Amel. Despite facing personal adversity, Amel's unyielding passion drove him to create yachts that offered owners grand adventures through robust construction and comfort. The Mango 52, designed by Henri Amel in collaboration with Jacques Carteau, was introduced in 1980 and remained in production until 1989, with 68 units built. During this era, Amel distinguished itself by embracing fiberglass (GRP) construction, valuing its durability for ocean voyaging. The builder's ethos, carried through its unique worker-owned structure, focused on uncompromising quality and an "irreproachable" finish. The Mango 52, like many Amel models, features a distinctive, well-protected center cockpit, a design element that significantly enhances safety and comfort during extended passages. There is no specific information indicating significant variations or MkI/MkII versions during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Amel Mango 52 is recognized for its resilience and ease of handling, especially in tough sea conditions, making it a strong choice for adventurous sailors. With a reported sail area of 1,290 sq ft and a displacement of 37,400 lbs, the sailboat's sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) is approximately 18.47. This ratio suggests good performance in lighter air, indicating that the ketch rig can effectively power the substantial hull. The ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.278, is moderate, however, Amel yachts are known for their inherent stability and seaworthiness, achieved through robust construction and careful design. With a displacement of 37,400 lbs and a waterline length of 41.7 ft, the displacement to length ratio (D/L) calculates to a high figure of approximately 516. This indicates a heavy, full-bodied yacht, characteristic of a traditional, dedicated blue water cruiser designed for comfort and stability rather than outright speed. The ketch rig contributes to its manageability, allowing for flexible sail plans and easier handling, particularly when sailing shorthanded.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Amel Mango 52 is designed for comfortable long-range voyaging, typically featuring an aft ensuite cabin, a spacious saloon, and a forward cabin with a V-berth. The joinery is often described as mahogany, contributing to a tasteful and classic aesthetic. The layout prioritizes liveaboard comfort and practicality for extended periods at sea. While specific headroom figures are not consistently reported, Amel yachts are generally known for providing ample interior volume. Owners often praise the practical aspects of the design, including well-thought-out storage solutions and robust on-board systems designed to support self-sufficiency. The use of durable materials, such as fiberglass for the hull and deck, ensures longevity and ease of maintenance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Amel Mango 52 consistently laud its robust construction and reliability, making it a highly regarded blue water cruiser. The protected center cockpit and ketch rig are frequently cited as significant advantages for safety and ease of handling during long passages. The boat's ability to stand up to tough sea conditions is a recurring theme in owner feedback. The comprehensive onboard systems are also appreciated for supporting self-sufficiency on extended voyages.

However, some owners note that Amel yachts, including the Mango 52, can be complex boats to maintain due to their extensive systems and proprietary design elements. While highly functional, the interior layout, though spacious, might not feel as expansive as some contemporary designs. The cost of ownership and potential for maintenance can also be a consideration, as with any high-end cruising yacht. Despite these points, the Amel Mango 52 retains a strong following, with owners often expressing deep confidence in its capabilities and an active, supportive community surrounding the brand. The Amel Mango 52 has even been featured in popular YouTube sailing series, highlighting its suitability for long-distance travel.