Maxi 800 Information, Review, Specs

The Maxi 800 emerged from the design board of Pelle Petterson in the early 1990s. Petterson, an Olympic medalist and a prolific yacht designer, instilled his core principles of quality, functionality, and design into all Maxi models. During the Maxi 800's production run (1992-1995), Maxi Yachts had recently undergone a significant corporate change, having been acquired by Nimbus Boats AB in 1991. Despite this transition, the brand continued to uphold its reputation for well-designed and robust vessels, emphasizing durable fiberglass construction for the hull and deck. No significant variations or Mark versions of the Maxi 800 were noted during its limited production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Maxi 800 is characterized as a light sailboat that delivers good performance. Its design, featuring a wing keel and spade rudder, contributes to its nimble handling. The boat's sailing characteristics suggest it is stable and stiff, capable of standing up to a decent breeze.

Interpreting its key performance ratios provides further insight:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/Disp): With a calculated ratio of approximately 18.68, the Maxi 800 is indicative of a boat with good light-air performance. This suggests it can move well in lighter winds without requiring significant breeze to get going.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp): At about 0.38 (38%), the Maxi 800 demonstrates a solid level of initial stability. This means it can carry its canvas effectively and offer a comfortable, steady motion in a seaway, though some sources suggest a "low righting capability if capsized," implying it is not designed for extreme offshore conditions where full inversions are a risk.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL): A ratio of approximately 169.6 places the Maxi 800 in the lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser category for its length. This aligns with its description as a "light sailboat" and reinforces its capacity for good performance.

Its spacious cockpit, coupled with tiller steering, enhances the sailing experience, making it responsive and engaging for the helmsman. The design likely prioritizes ease of handling and enjoyment on deck, consistent with its suitability as a "day-boat".

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Maxi 800 offers a practical and open-plan layout, providing comfortable accommodations for its size, which includes a maximum headroom of 5.75 feet. The forward section features a V-berth, typically serving as the primary sleeping area. Moving aft into the main saloon, the layout is designed for efficient use of space. To starboard, a dedicated head compartment is found, equipped with a marine toilet and a washbasin. Opposite, to port, is a functional galley area, which is complemented by an additional single berth accessible directly from this space. While details on specific materials are limited, Maxi Yachts generally emphasized quality construction, suggesting a durable finish appropriate for a production cruiser of its era.