Maxi 68 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Maxi 68 emerged from the design board of Pelle Petterson, a renowned Olympic medalist and the visionary behind Maxi Yachts, which he founded in 1972. Produced from 1975 to 1981, often in collaboration with Börjesson Brothers, the Maxi 68 was a key model in the early success of the Maxi brand, following closely on the heels of the iconic Maxi 77 3, 4, 7, Builder Article. Petterson's design philosophy consistently emphasized creating yachts that offer a harmonious blend of comfort, safety, and speed, a hallmark evident in the Maxi 68's robust fiberglass construction. During her production run, the Maxi 68 saw a notable update around 1978, transitioning from a black rig to a silver-colored Seldén rig, accompanied by taped hull lines replacing the earlier painted ones.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Measuring just over 22 feet in length overall with a fractional sloop rig, the Maxi 68 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat. She is equipped with a fin keel, a design choice that contributes to her "splendid maneuverability" on the water, making her responsive and easy to handle. While noted for being "slightly under powered," the Maxi 68 is praised for its inherent stability and stiffness. However, due to her size and design, she has a low righting capability if capsized, emphasizing her primary suitability as a day-boat. Her balance and ease of control make her a forgiving vessel, especially appealing for coastal cruising and shorter excursions.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her compact size, the Maxi 68 offers practical interior accommodations, typically featuring four berths. The layout is designed to maximize the available space below deck, characteristic of well-thought-out small cruiser designs of her era. While specific details on interior finishes and materials are not broadly documented, boats of this vintage and origin often utilized a combination of molded fiberglass for structural elements and bulkheads, complemented by simple wood trim for a functional and warm aesthetic. The interior would typically include a V-berth forward, a main salon area with settees that convert into berths, and potentially a small galley area and a head compartment, prioritizing essential cruising amenities within her limited volume.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Maxi 68 generally appreciate her solid construction and straightforward sailing characteristics. However, common issues noted by some owners include the potential for water ingress into the bilge, particularly during extended periods on a single tack. Such issues often point to typical maintenance requirements for boats of this age, such as re-bedding deck fittings or checking seals. The Maxi 68 is often highlighted as a reliable and enjoyable entry-level sailboat, providing a rewarding ownership experience for those seeking a manageable and capable vessel.