Mallard 9 M Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Mallard 9 M aligns with a vibrant period in French yacht building, during which Chantier Mallard rose to prominence as a leading manufacturer of pleasure boats. The shipyard, with a legacy rooted in naval carpentry dating back to 1896, was celebrated for its robust construction and excellent seakeeping abilities. The decision to collaborate with Philippe Harlé, one of the most respected naval architects of his time, underscored Mallard's commitment to designing high-performing vessels. Harlé's design for the 9 M aimed to produce a sailboat that was both performant on the racecourse and comfortable for cruising, reflecting Mallard's broader philosophy of crafting well-built boats suitable for both family cruising and competitive sailing.

Production of the Mallard 9 M spanned from 1975 to 1981, with approximately 100 units built during this period. Throughout its production run, the Mallard 9 M was offered with different keel configurations, notably a deeper fin keel with a maximum draft of 5.58 feet (1.70 m) and a shallower draft version at 4.76 feet (1.45 m), providing options for sailors navigating various depths. This design versatility contributed to its widespread appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mallard 9 M exhibits characteristics of a capable and lively performer, a testament to Harlé's design and Mallard's build quality. With a reported sail area of 532 square feet and a displacement of 7055 pounds, its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 22.9 indicates strong performance potential, particularly in lighter wind conditions. This suggests the boat is responsive and can accelerate well. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.443 signifies a high degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the Mallard 9 M to stand up to a considerable amount of wind without excessive heeling, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 207 places it in the moderate-to-light displacement category, confirming its design as a performance-oriented cruiser rather than a heavy, traditional displacement vessel.

Anecdotal reports suggest the Mallard 9 M is indeed a "very high performer" and is described as "very stable / stiff". While some discussions among owners have touched upon a tendency to be "gitard" (prone to excessive weather helm or rounding up in strong gusts), this characteristic is often manageable through proper sail trim and setup. Overall, the boat is generally regarded for its excellent seakeeping abilities and balanced handling, making it a reliable choice for diverse sailing conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Mallard 9 M are not extensively documented in widely accessible reviews, the general consensus describes its interior as classic and warm, often featuring mottled upholstery. For a sailboat of its size (just under 30 feet), a typical layout would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a compact galley, and an enclosed head. Space for a navigation station would also be expected. Given the era of its construction and Chantier Mallard's reputation, one can infer a practical and well-finished interior, likely utilizing wood trim alongside fiberglass, providing a comfortable environment for coastal cruising or weekend trips. Storage solutions, though potentially compact, would be integrated to maximize utility for a boat of this length.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Mallard boats, including the 9 M, consistently praise their solid construction and robust build quality, a hallmark of Chantier Mallard's reputation. The Mallard 9 M is frequently lauded for its seaworthiness and reliable performance, instilling confidence in its capabilities, particularly in challenging conditions. While specific, widely documented recurring common problems for the Mallard 9 M are not prominently highlighted in available public forums, general discussions among owners often revolve around optimizing its handling characteristics, such as addressing weather helm in specific conditions, as is common with many performance-oriented designs of its vintage. The enduring appeal of the Mallard 9 M is a testament to its thoughtful design and the quality craftsmanship of its builder.