Etendard Information, Review, Specs

The Etendard entered production in 1968, a period when Chantier Mallard was a leading French manufacturer of pleasure boats, embracing modern fiberglass construction techniques, 4]. The vessel was penned by Jean-Jacques Herbulot, a prominent figure in French sailing known for his extensive contributions to democratizing the sport through practical and accessible boat designs. Herbulot designed a wide array of sailing crafts, emphasizing seaworthiness and user-friendliness across his diverse portfolio. Chantier Mallard, with its long tradition in naval construction dating back to 1896, built a legacy of producing yachts recognized for their robust construction and excellent seakeeping abilities, often collaborating with respected naval architects like Herbulot. The Etendard, with its ketch rig, reflects a design philosophy aimed at creating a stable and easily managed vessel suitable for various sailing conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mallard Etendard, with its ketch rig and traditional hull design, offers a sailing experience characterized by stability and comfortable motion. Its displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of approximately 289 indicates a heavier, more traditional cruiser, suggesting a comfortable ride in a seaway rather than outright speed. The sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/D) of around 16.4 points to a moderate performer, capable of handling a variety of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in heavy gusts. While it may not be a light-air specialist, its sail plan is effective for general cruising.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 35.7% contributes to decent stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind. The ketch rig, featuring both a main and mizzen sail, offers flexibility in sail configuration, making it easier to balance the boat and reduce sail area progressively in strong winds, a desirable characteristic for comfortable cruising. The theoretical maximum hull speed for a vessel of its length is approximately 6.6 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the exact interior layout and amenities of the Mallard Etendard is not extensively documented in publicly available sources. However, as a family cruiser of its era, it is generally expected to feature a functional layout designed for comfort during coastal or offshore voyages. Typical arrangements for sailboats of this size often include a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a compact galley, and a dedicated head compartment. While specific details on headroom or interior finish materials are scarce, boats built by Chantier Mallard were known for solid construction, suggesting a practical and durable interior.