Super Mistral Sport (Amel) Information, Review, Specs

The Super Mistral Sport's production spanned over a decade, from 1961 to 1973, with approximately 350 units built. Its creation predates the formal establishment of Chantiers Amel in La Rochelle in 1965, with the Super Mistral Sport initially built in Marseille after Henri Amel took over a failing shipyard there. This model showcased Amel's early adoption of fiberglass (GRP) for hull and deck construction, a material choice that emphasized durability suitable for cruising. The design philosophy behind the Super Mistral Sport, like all early Amel boats, centered on creating robust vessels that offered ease of handling for their owners. While Henri Amel himself was the primary force behind the designs, he collaborated with naval architect François Sergent on this specific model. The Super Mistral Sport, along with the Copain and Pampero, was among the small monohulls produced by Amel's La Rochelle workshops following the company's formal establishment.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Weighing in at 2,646 pounds with a ballast of 1,168 pounds, the Super Mistral Sport is characterized as a light sailboat with a good performance profile for its size. Its fin keel and spade rudder contribute to its maneuverability and responsiveness. As a masthead sloop with a reported sail area of 193 square feet, it is designed for ease of handling. Owners generally find it stable and stiff, offering a reliable ride. With a hull speed of approximately 6.07 knots, the Super Mistral Sport is a suitable choice for coastal cruising and day sailing, demonstrating the early Amel ethos of building capable, if compact, vessels.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length overall of just over 23 feet, the Super Mistral Sport offers a functional, albeit modest, interior layout typical of small cruisers of its era. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design would prioritize efficient use of space for essential amenities. The interior likely features a V-berth forward, a small salon area, and basic galley provisions. Storage would be limited but practical for weekend or short-trip cruising. The focus would be on robust, simple finishes, in line with Amel's early commitment to durability and functionality over luxurious appointments. Potential owners would find a straightforward interior designed for utility and ease of maintenance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Super Mistral Sport often appreciate its solid fiberglass construction, which has allowed many of these vessels to endure remarkably well over decades. Its compact size makes it relatively easy to handle, berth, and maintain, appealing to those seeking a simple and reliable sailing experience. Common strengths cited include its stability and good performance in a variety of conditions for a boat of its dimensions. As with many older fiberglass boats, potential areas of attention for owners might include routine maintenance of original fittings and systems, but the fundamental hull integrity is typically well-regarded. The Super Mistral Sport generally holds a reputation as a robust and dependable small cruiser, reflecting the enduring quality that Henri Amel strived for from his earliest designs.