For decades, the name Chantier Mallard was synonymous with quality and innovation in French yacht building, crafting vessels that earned a respected place in the hearts of sailors. Though the shipyard's active construction period has concluded, its legacy endures through the many well-regarded yachts still gracing the waters today.
The Origin Story
The story of Chantier Mallard begins in 1896 with Victor Mallard, who established the shipyard in Triel, France. The Mallard family had a long tradition in naval construction, with four generations contributing to the craft. Initially, the shipyard focused on specialized marine carpentry. While the specific details of their first pleasure boat are not widely documented, this early focus on woodworking laid the foundation for the precision and quality that would later define their sailing yachts. The company later established a significant presence in La Rochelle, near the Tour des Lanternes, which became a key location for their production.
History and Evolution
Chantier Mallard truly rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming one of France's leading manufacturers of pleasure boats during this vibrant period for the marine industry. This era saw a significant transition in boat building materials, and while specific dates for their shift to fiberglass are not explicitly detailed, their success in producing popular series models strongly indicates their embrace of modern composite construction techniques. The shipyard's reputation grew for delivering well-built and seaworthy vessels. Unfortunately, the active building operations of Chantier Mallard have since concluded, with some sources indicating the shipyard is now closed.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Chantier Mallard established a strong reputation in the sailing world for producing yachts known for their robust construction and excellent seakeeping abilities. They were particularly recognized for crafting comfortable family cruisers and performance-oriented sailboats that often participated in popular racing circuits. The shipyard frequently collaborated with some of the most respected naval architects and designers of their time, including Bruce Farr, Georges Auzepy-Brenneur, Jean-Jacques Herbulot, Jean Marie Finot (Groupe Finot), and Philippe Harlé. This impressive roster of designers ensured a diverse and high-performing fleet, with many of their models notably associated with the highly competitive Half Ton and Quarter Ton classes.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its operational history, Chantier Mallard launched numerous significant and successful models that left a lasting mark on the French and international sailing scene. Among their most recognized lines were the "Start" series, specifically the Start 6 and Start 7. Another highly successful range was the "Mallard" series, which included popular models such as the Mallard 9m and Mallard 11m. The Mallard 9m, in particular, was a notable vessel within the Half Ton Class. Other models like the AS DE PIQUE, first built in 1962, also contributed to their diverse portfolio. These boats were celebrated for their solid construction and reliable performance, endearing them to cruising families and competitive sailors alike.
The Builder Today
While the primary shipbuilding operations of Chantier Mallard have ceased, the legacy of their well-built yachts continues to thrive. Many Mallard boats remain cherished by their owners and are actively sailed around the world. There is often a strong community among owners of these classic French cruisers, who appreciate the enduring quality and design of these vessels. Though new boats are no longer produced under the Chantier Mallard name, their impact on the marine industry, particularly in the realm of fiberglass production sailboats in France, remains a testament to their historical significance.
