Start 6 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Start 6 coincided with a vibrant period in French yacht manufacturing, during which Chantier Mallard, a shipyard with a lineage tracing back to 1896, rose to prominence as a leading producer of pleasure boats. Known for their robust construction and excellent seakeeping abilities, Mallard frequently collaborated with renowned naval architects, including Philippe Harlé. Harlé, one of the most prolific yacht designers of his time, was responsible for numerous successful designs, and the Start 6 emerged from this era, embodying the shipyard's commitment to quality fiberglass construction and practical design. While specific detailed accounts of Harlé's design philosophy for the Start 6 are not widely documented, his general approach often favored seaworthy and well-performing vessels. The Start 6, with its manageable length overall of 20.34 feet and a waterline length of 18.04 feet, along with its centerboard keel, points to a design focused on versatility for various sailing grounds, from deeper waters to shallower anchorages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mallard Start 6 is configured as a fractional sloop with a centerboard, offering a blend of performance and adaptability. Weighing in at a displacement of 1,653 pounds and carrying 441 pounds of ballast, she is a relatively light boat for her size, which contributes to her agility. Her reported sail area of 239 square feet provides ample power for her displacement. The presence of a centerboard is a key design feature, allowing a variable draft from a minimum of 1.48 feet (board up) to a maximum of 4.76 feet (board down). This enables the Start 6 to access shallow bays and anchorages that fixed-keel boats of similar size might not reach, while still providing good windward performance with the board lowered. Overall, the Start 6 is designed to be a responsive and enjoyable boat for day sailing and short cruises, capable of handling a variety of conditions within its intended use.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Mallard Start 6 offers basic, yet functional, accommodations typical of a 20-foot sailboat of its era. While detailed interior layouts and specific headroom figures are not widely published, such vessels typically feature a simple cabin arrangement. This would likely include a V-berth forward, a small dinette or settees in the main salon area that may convert to berths, and possibly a basic galley area with a sink and space for a portable stove. A dedicated head compartment, if present, would be compact. The interior finish, consistent with Chantier Mallard's reputation, would generally feature solid construction, though specific material choices and levels of amenities would vary by individual boat and owner modifications over time. The design prioritizes maximizing usable space within its limited footprint for weekend trips or day excursions.