Malo 116 Information, Review, Specs

The Malö 116 emerged during a decade where Malö Yachts had fully embraced fiberglass construction, a pivotal shift that began in 1969 and allowed for consistent production while upholding structural integrity. The Malö 116, like other Malö models of its era, reflects a design philosophy that prioritizes safety, comfort, and offshore capability over extreme speed. The boat was designed with attention to practicality, evident in its construction tailored for long voyages in varying weather conditions. The builder, Olsöners Båtbyggen (the precursor to Malö Yachts), focused on meticulous attention to detail and robust construction, often utilizing a balsa core sandwich for superior rigidity and safety in its hulls. While specific variations like a MkI or MkII are not widely noted, some Malö 116s have been observed with an "extended transom," indicating potential customisations or minor updates during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Malö 116 is characterized by its moderate displacement and well-balanced sail plan, offering a good all-around performance for a cruising yacht. With a length overall of 38.06 feet and a waterline length of 30.84 feet, she boasts a calculated hull speed of approximately 7.44 knots.

Several key ratios illustrate her sailing characteristics:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D): At approximately 17.73, the Malö 116 offers a respectable sail area for its displacement. This suggests a boat capable of performing well in a range of wind conditions, neither sluggish in light air nor excessively overpowered in heavier breezes, making it a good choice for diverse cruising grounds.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D): With a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 43.9%, the Malö 116 is notably stiff and stable. This substantial ballast, made of lead, contributes significantly to its righting moment, allowing the boat to stand up to more wind and providing a comfortable, secure motion in a seaway. Owners and reviewers often praise its stability and good righting capability.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L): The Malö 116 has a D/L ratio of approximately 251.87, placing it in the medium-heavy displacement category. This indicates a solid, seaworthy cruiser designed for comfort and resilience rather than outright speed, capable of handling offshore conditions with confidence.

The Malö 116 is equipped with a fin keel, a common keel type that provides good maneuverability, though it may offer slightly less directional stability compared to a full keel in some conditions. Its masthead sloop rig, with an I-dimension of 51.67 feet and a J-dimension of 15.58 feet, allows for a substantial foretriangle sail area of 402.51 sq ft and a main sail area of 321.71 sq ft, contributing to a reported total sail area of 724.0 sq ft. Owners frequently note its "superb sailing qualities" and favorable sail area/displacement ratio as contributing to its capable performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Malö 116 is designed for comfort and practicality, typical of Swedish-built cruising yachts of its era. Often featuring warm mahogany wood, the layout aims for a spacious and inviting ambiance. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the structured data, the general design emphasis on liveaboard comfort suggests a thoughtful arrangement.

A common interior configuration includes a comfortable saloon with a large table that can often be lowered to convert into an additional double berth. The owner's cabin is typically located in the bow, often featuring a lovely center berth and ample storage. The Malö 116's interior is described as well-laid out and comfortable, offering a traditional, yet functional living space suitable for extended cruising. The emphasis on quality materials and robust construction extends to the interior, where joinery and finishes are generally of a high standard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Malö 116 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, aligning with Malö Yachts' reputation for building yachts capable of long voyages. Many appreciate the significant investment made by previous owners in maintaining and upgrading these vessels, highlighting their enduring value. The Malö 116 is often considered a "cruiser in the classic Orust Design," known for its quality that few other yards can match.

While generally well-regarded, some owners might find the layout, typical of boats from its production era, less open or modern than contemporary designs. However, the emphasis on robust build quality and a comfortable, secure motion in a seaway often outweighs these considerations for those seeking a true blue-water cruiser. The strong resale value of Malö yachts in general, including the 116, is a testament to their enduring quality and design, fostering an active community of owners who share a passion for these capable vessels.