Achilles 9 M Information, Review, Specs

The Achilles 9 M emerged from Butler Mouldings Ltd., a British boat builder founded by Chris Butler in 1957, which initially specialized in GRP motorcycle parts before transitioning to marine craft in the 1960s. The company, driven by innovation in fiberglass, launched its famous Achilles line of yachts around 1968 with the Achilles 24. Following the success of earlier models, Chris Butler designed the Achilles 9 M "from a clean sheet of paper," specifically for long-distance, short-handed cruising. Production began in 1975 and continued until 1984, contributing to the over 1500 boats produced across the Achilles range by Butler Mouldings. The builder's ethos during this era emphasized quality, robust construction, and inherent safety, characteristics clearly evident in the 9 M. While the fin and skeg arrangement is the more common configuration, a shallow draft "triple keel" variant was also available, capable of drying out.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total sail area of approximately 353.57 sq ft, a displacement of 7,000 lbs, and a waterline length of 25.42 ft, the Achilles 9 M exhibits characteristics of a capable cruiser. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.36 suggests moderate performance, leaning towards the heavier side for light-air conditions, meaning she may require a bit more breeze to truly come alive. However, her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.428 indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to more wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 190.5 places her on the lighter, more performance-oriented end of the cruising spectrum, suggesting a responsive feel for a boat of her size. Owners have praised her sparkling performance, with anecdotal evidence of the 9 M performing competitively against larger boats in challenging conditions. The fin keel and skeg-hung rudder design contribute to good tracking and control, even when going astern.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the Achilles 9 M was designed to offer more substantial accommodation than its smaller siblings, making it suitable for cruising families looking to venture further afield. The interior layout typically provides six berths across two cabins. Details from reviews and owner descriptions suggest a well-designed and laid-out interior with a good volume of storage space. Many Achilles 9 M models were either factory-finished or completed from kits, leading to some variation in interior finishes and fittings. However, common themes include a focus on practicality for cruising, with materials like teak often used for interior trim and flooring. Owners frequently appreciate the robust hull and deck construction, which translate to a feeling of security below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Achilles 9 M consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, often describing it as a strong, safe, and robustly built vessel. Many consider it a good choice for those seeking an affordable yet capable introduction to cruising. The boat's sailing performance is a recurring highlight, with owners reporting that it sails well and can be surprisingly fast, even participating successfully in demanding races like the AZAB, Fastnet, and OSTAR. The design's suitability for long-distance and short-handed sailing is also frequently mentioned as a significant strength. While interiors can vary due to the common practice of home finishing from kits, owners generally appreciate the practical layout and ample storage. The Achilles 9M has proven to be a highly capable cruiser and club racer for many years.