Mamba 29 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Mamba 29 spanned nearly a decade, from 1980 to 1989. Mamba Boats, operating from Forshaga, Sweden, was known for producing fiberglass monohull sailboats that aimed to offer a balance of performance and practicality. The Mamba 29, like other models in the builder's lineage, benefited from this philosophy. Designers Jan Becker and Harry Becker crafted a vessel that reflected the contemporary design principles suitable for Scandinavian sailing conditions, often influenced by the International Offshore Rule (IOR) which was prevalent in racing yacht design during this period. This influence is evident in the Mamba 29's "light sailboat" profile, which was intended to be a "reasonably good performer" while maintaining a solid level of stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mamba 29 is designed for an engaging sailing experience, combining respectable speed with inherent stability. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.20, she exhibits good light-air performance, suggesting that she can move well even in lighter breezes. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.44 (44%) indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio, coupled with a fin keel and spade rudder, contributes to her ability to hold her course and offer responsive handling. The Mamba 29's Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 249.31, places her firmly in the medium-displacement cruiser category. This suggests a vessel that balances performance with load-carrying capacity, providing a smooth ride without being excessively heavy or excessively light. Her fractional sloop rig further contributes to her sailing efficiency and ease of handling, especially for a crew of two.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 28.54 feet, the Mamba 29 offers a practical and surprisingly spacious interior. Owners have noted a generous ceiling height, reportedly around 1.85 meters (approximately 6.07 feet), which is impressive for a boat of this size. The layout is designed to maximize living space and functionality, with a typical arrangement featuring sleeping berths for up to six people, sometimes described as "3 places to sleep for 3 couples". Directly to port of the companionway, one can typically find a navigation station. The galley is often described as "full-featured," akin to what one might find in a small apartment, suggesting ample space and amenities for preparing meals. While specific details on interior finish materials require direct inspection of individual boats, Mamba Boats generally focused on practical and durable constructions, often utilizing fiberglass with wood trim. Ample storage and good ventilation would have been key considerations for a cruising sailboat of this era.