Django 9.8 Information, Review, Specs

The Django 9.8 entered production in 2015 and continues to be a contemporary offering from Marée Haute. Marée Haute, established in 2004, has consistently focused on creating performance cruisers, leveraging modern materials like fiberglass for robust yet efficient hull construction. The builder's collaboration with Pierre Rolland is central to the Django line's identity, with Rolland's designs aiming for a harmonious blend of performance and seaworthiness. The Django 9.8 embodies this ethos, offering a design that prioritizes both speed and safety on the water. A key aspect of Marée Haute's innovative approach is the availability of various keel configurations, including a twin keel (as detailed in the primary specifications), a lifting keel, and a fixed keel, providing versatility to suit different sailing grounds and preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Django 9.8 is engineered for an engaging sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 26.35, it exhibits strong potential for light-air performance, suggesting it can accelerate quickly and maintain speed even in lighter breezes. This high ratio aligns with its reputation as a "modern and fast cruising sailboat" and an "absolute hoot to sail." The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio for the twin keel version is around 0.345, indicating a moderate level of stability designed to stand up to wind while maintaining a lively feel. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 124.48 classifies it as a very light, performance-oriented cruiser, which contributes to its agility and responsiveness. Descriptions often highlight its "excellent performance in all points of sail" and its balance, making it "technical but easy to handle" for a broad range of sailors. Its twin rudder configuration further enhances control, especially when heeling or in varying sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance-oriented design, the Django 9.8 offers a surprisingly spacious and well-appointed interior, with a maximum headroom of 6.23 feet (1.90 meters) in the dinette area. The interior is frequently praised for its "plenty of living space," "lots of light," and functional yet "clever and elegant interior design." The typical layout includes a V-berth forward, a comfortable salon, and a well-appointed galley. Depending on the configuration, the boat can feature two or three cabins. In a three-cabin layout, there is one forward and two aft double cabins. In a two-cabin arrangement, one of the aft areas is often utilized as a technical space. The "Mediterranean cockpit" design provides an open and accessible deck space, enhancing the cruising experience. While specific details on finish quality and materials are best assessed in person, the general sentiment points to a functional and pleasant interior designed for optimal safety and comfort during family cruising.