Atlante Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Mallard Atlante begins in the mid-1960s, with production spanning from 1965 to 1977. During this period, approximately 280 units of the Atlante were built. While some sources attribute her design to Georges Auzepy-Brenneur, the Atlante is widely recognized as a creation of the prolific French naval architect Philippe Harlé. Harlé was renowned for designing a diverse array of successful sailboats, and his collaboration with Chantier Mallard was frequent, contributing to the shipyard's strong reputation.

Chantier Mallard, established in 1896, rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, precisely when the Atlante was in production. The shipyard was celebrated for its focus on robust construction and excellent seakeeping abilities, often collaborating with leading designers to produce comfortable family cruisers and performance-oriented sailboats. This manufacturing ethos is evident in the Atlante, which was built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, ensuring durability characteristic of the era's French yacht building.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Interpreting the Mallard Atlante's specifications reveals insights into her sailing characteristics. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 13.46, the Atlante leans towards being a more conservative cruiser rather than a light-air speedster. This relatively low ratio suggests she will require more wind to get moving effectively, but will likely be stable and manageable in heavier conditions.

Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 572 indicates a boat with very heavy displacement relative to its waterline length. This signifies a boat built for solidity and comfort, offering a stable and forgiving motion in a seaway, rather than prioritizing outright speed. The Atlante features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a configuration typically offering good maneuverability and responsiveness for a boat of her vintage and displacement. While specific anecdotal reviews of her handling in various sea states are not readily available, her design ratios suggest a steady and predictable platform, well-suited for cruising.

Due to the absence of specific ballast weight data, the Ballast to Displacement ratio cannot be calculated. However, her overall design and displacement figures point to a boat engineered for stability and a comfortable ride.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed interior layouts and specific dimensions for the Mallard Atlante are not widely documented in available public information. The provided data does not include maximum headroom figures. Typically for a sailboat of just under 28 feet from the 1960s and 70s, one would expect a functional, if compact, interior layout designed for coastal cruising. This often includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a small galley area, and a basic enclosed head. The construction materials of the era from Chantier Mallard often featured a blend of fiberglass surfaces with warm wood trim, creating a durable and classic ambiance. Without specific owner reviews or interior diagrams, it is difficult to comment on storage, finish quality, or ventilation beyond these general expectations for a boat of her type and age.