Ecume DE Mer Information, Review, Specs

The narrative of the Ecume DE Mer begins in 1968, marking the start of its impressive production run that continued until 1979. It emerged as one of Jean Marie Finot's early and profoundly successful designs, conceived, as some accounts suggest, during an internship. Finot's design philosophy for the Ecume DE Mer aimed to create a yacht that was not only competitive on the race course but also offered enjoyable handling and seaworthiness for cruising. The initial versions of the Ecume DE Mer were notable for their multi-chine plywood construction with a flush deck, showcasing innovative building techniques for the era. The design proved so influential that variations, including a soft-chined version named "Petite Fleur" that won the International Quarter Ton Cup in 1972, were developed. Later, the model transitioned to fiberglass construction, which became the standard for the majority of the 1,335 units built.

Chantier Mallard, the builder, was a prominent French shipyard known for its commitment to robust construction and excellent seakeeping abilities. During the period of the Ecume DE Mer's production, Mallard cemented its reputation for crafting both comfortable family cruisers and performance-oriented sailboats, often collaborating with leading naval architects like Jean Marie Finot. This synergy between innovative design and quality construction ensured the Ecume DE Mer's enduring appeal and success.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ecume DE Mer is widely celebrated for its exceptional sailing performance and responsive handling, traits that cemented its status as a true thoroughbred. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.58, she possesses a decent amount of power for her displacement, suggesting competent performance in light air while remaining manageable as the wind builds. Her ballast to displacement ratio of just over 40% (40.25%) indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze and maintaining an upright stance under sail, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of around 250 positions the Ecume DE Mer as a moderate displacement vessel for its waterline length, striking a balance between light-footed agility and the stability needed for offshore passages.

Anecdotal reports consistently praise the Ecume DE Mer's sharp handling and beautiful balance under sail. Owners and reviewers highlight its excellent upwind performance and good seakeeping characteristics, even when carrying a large headsail. Her responsive nature and predictable behavior in various sea states make her a rewarding boat to sail for both experienced racers and cruising families.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its length overall of 26 feet and primary design as a Quarter Ton racer-cruiser, the Ecume DE Mer offers a functional rather than luxurious interior, typical of performance-oriented yachts of its era. Detailed interior layouts from public search are limited, but such boats generally feature a relatively open-plan salon, often with a V-berth forward, a basic marine head (sometimes open or with a privacy curtain), and two settees in the main cabin that can serve as berths. A small galley area, usually incorporating a sink and space for a portable stove, would typically be found. While specific maximum headroom is not consistently reported, it would likely be modest, especially forward. Some configurations suggest the potential for up to six berths, likely achieved through convertible salon seating or pilot berths, maximizing the sleeping capacity within its compact footprint. The construction would predominantly involve fiberglass interior moldings, possibly with wood trim accents, focusing on durability and ease of maintenance over opulent finishes. Storage solutions would be practical but limited, primarily relying on under-berth and locker space.

Owner's Perspectives

The Ecume DE Mer benefits from a strong and active owner community, with various online forums and groups dedicated to the model. Owners consistently express appreciation for the boat's solid construction, which has allowed many examples to remain actively sailed decades after their launch. The enduring appeal of the Ecume DE Mer lies in its combination of spirited performance and robust build quality, which has fostered a loyal following. While specific recurring issues are not broadly detailed in readily available public reviews, the general consensus among owners points to a vessel that delivers a rewarding sailing experience and stands up well to the rigors of both racing and cruising. Its legacy as a competitive racer and a capable cruiser continues to make it a cherished classic in the sailing world.