Mahe 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Mahe 36 represents Fountaine Pajot's strategic decision to offer a smaller, more manageable catamaran within their esteemed lineup, effectively replacing the popular Athena 38 as the company's entry-level model. Production for the Mahe 36 began in 2004 and continued until 2013, with a total of 195 units built, solidifying its place as one of Fountaine Pajot's most successful models. The builder, Fountaine Pajot, founded in 1976 by regatta competitor Jean-François Fountaine, has consistently focused on pioneering multihull technology, as evidenced by their early ventures into racing trimarans and their subsequent success with cruising catamarans like the Louisiane 37 and Casamance 43. Their design philosophy emphasizes maximizing interior volume, light, and a balance of performance and spaciousness, often employing foam-core sandwich construction for robust and lightweight hulls. The Mahe 36 also saw a notable evolution during its production run, with the "Mahe 36 Evolution" featuring an all-encompassing hard dodger, a significant upgrade that enhanced cockpit protection and addressed various cruising considerations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Fountaine Pajot Mahe 36 is lauded for its straightforward and forgiving sailing characteristics, making it particularly suitable for smaller crews or even single-handed operation. With a reported sail area of 700 square feet, the fractional sloop rig provides ample power, while the twin keels and dual rudders contribute to excellent control and maneuverability. Owners frequently praise the Mahe 36's ease of handling under sail and its simplicity when docking. Its shallow maximum draft of 3.62 feet, thanks to its twin keel design, allows for access to anchorages often inaccessible to deeper-draft monohulls, greatly expanding cruising grounds. The catamaran's inherent stability, a hallmark of multihull design, provides a comfortable motion in a seaway, a significant advantage for extended cruising. The Mahe 36 is noted for its impressive hull speed potential of 7.93 knots, offering good passage-making capabilities for its size. The construction, utilizing resin-infused fiberglass over a foam core, contributes to a strong and durable boat.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size for a cruising catamaran, the Mahe 36 offers remarkably spacious and well-appointed accommodations. The interior, often featuring a bright and airy modern design, frequently incorporates maple wood finishes, creating a welcoming atmosphere. A standout feature is the seamless connection between the main salon and the cockpit, facilitated by large double-opening doors, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The layout typically includes an L-shaped galley providing decent counter space and often boasting fantastic views, as well as a dedicated chart table with a comfortable seat. The Mahe 36 was available in both two and three-cabin configurations, offering flexibility for different owner needs. The three-cabin version typically features three double cabins, making it suitable for multiple couples or families. The design emphasizes practical living spaces, abundant natural light, and good ventilation, aligning with Fountaine Pajot's broader philosophy of maximizing comfort and livability for extended cruising.