Malbec 290 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Malbec 290 began its production run in 2006, emerging from the reputable Astillero Zimmermann shipyard located in San Fernando, Buenos Aires. Astillero Zimmermann, established in 1965, has a long-standing history of contributing robust and well-engineered sailing yachts to the Argentine marine landscape, often associated with the naval architect Roberto Róvere and a focus on balancing sailing efficiency with onboard comfort. The Malbec 290 continues this tradition, with designer Pablo Mastracchio penning a hull that combines modern performance characteristics with practical usability. The design features a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, a configuration optimized for lift and control, while its fractional sloop rig with smaller headsails contributes to its performance-oriented nature and ease of handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Malbec 290's design ratios underscore its sporty character and responsive performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.71, the boat is well-powered, suggesting strong performance in lighter winds and the ability to accelerate quickly. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 155.8 classifies it as a relatively light and performance-oriented vessel, further emphasizing its agile nature on the water.

Despite its lighter displacement, the Malbec 290 offers a respectable degree of stiffness and stability, attributed to its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 0.352. While designed with a clear emphasis on racing, owners and reviewers note its "reasonably stable / stiff" nature, though with a lower righting capability if capsized, a characteristic often found in performance designs. The fractional rig allows for flexible sail trim, contributing to good balance and control across various wind conditions. Its efficient underwater profile, featuring a bulb keel and spade rudder, provides excellent directional stability and maneuverability, making it a joy to helm both upwind and down.

Accommodations and Layout

While primarily geared towards performance, the Malbec 290 also offers practical accommodations for its size, making it suitable for weekend trips and short cruises. The interior design aims to maximize the available space within its just under 30-foot length overall. Owners can expect an approximate maximum headroom of 5.9 feet (1.80 meters), which is commendable for a boat of this size and performance profile. The interior layout typically includes a forward V-berth, a compact salon with seating, a small galley area, and a marine head. Materials often feature a combination of fiberglass liners with wood trim, offering a functional and easy-to-maintain finish common in production boats of its era. Storage is generally adequate for a boat of its class, suitable for short to medium-length voyages.