Mamba 341 Information, Review, Specs

The Mamba 341 emerged in 1981 as an updated and more cruising-oriented version of its predecessor, the Mamba 34. The original Mamba 34 was first presented around 1977, and production for this lineage, including the 341, continued until approximately 1987. Designer Rolf Magnusson, known for contributing to various popular Swedish models, shaped the Mamba line, often adhering to principles influenced by the International Offshore Rule (IOR), prevalent during that era.

Mamba Boats, operating from Forshaga, Sweden, committed to producing stable and capable fiberglass sailing vessels. Their ethos focused on delivering "light sailboats" that were "reasonably good performers" while maintaining a good level of stability. The Mamba 341, specifically, featured several key modifications over the Mamba 34, including a higher deck which contributed to improved standing height, along with a changed rig and an altered interior layout. Owners could also choose between a masthead or fractional sloop rig configuration.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 23.57, the Mamba 341 demonstrates a good sail-carrying capacity, suggesting a lively performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) stands at roughly 0.31, indicating a moderate level of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze without being overly tender. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of about 225.05 places the Mamba 341 in a balanced category—neither an ultra-light racer nor a heavy, traditional cruiser—suggesting a versatile performance profile. Anecdotal accounts from those who have sailed the Mamba 34 and 341 frequently describe them as stable and reasonably good performing sailboats across various conditions., 6, 10]

Accommodations and Layout

The Mamba 341, designed as a comfortable cruiser, offered an interior that prioritized living space. A notable enhancement over the Mamba 34 was the higher deck, which directly translated to better standing height below. With a beam of 11.25 feet, the boat provides a respectable volume for its length. The interior layout was subject to variations over the production years, particularly concerning the galley and salon arrangements, allowing for some diversity in cabin configurations. While specific detailed layouts might vary, the general design aimed to maximize comfort and utility for extended cruising.