Mach II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Snark Mach II emerged during a period when its builder, Snark Products Inc., was solidifying its reputation as the world's largest sailboat manufacturer by volume. The company, co-founded by Jim McMullen in the mid-1960s, aimed to create simple, affordable, and easy-to-learn sailboats. The Mach II, much like its predecessors, embraced this ethos, featuring a hull constructed from expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, later enhanced with a vacuum-formed layer of ABS plastic (and subsequently ASA), a patented technique marketed as "Corelite" and "Armorclad". This innovative construction method made the boats exceptionally lightweight, unsinkable, and durable, while eliminating internal voids.

Production of the Mach II spanned from 1976 to 1982. During this era, Snark's manufacturing process had evolved to include these advanced cladding techniques, significantly improving the durability of their foam-cored hulls. The Mach II shared its hull design with another Snark model, the Mach V, which differed primarily in its rig, utilizing a Cat (Marconi) sail instead of the Mach II's lateen rig. These models were widely distributed through major retailers such as Sears and JC Penney, appearing in their catalogs and making sailing accessible to a broad American audience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With an overall length of 13.83 feet and a beam of 4.04 feet, the Snark Mach II is a classic lightweight dinghy designed for ease of handling rather than high performance. Its reported sail area of 82.0 square feet, combined with its extremely light displacement of 90 pounds, ensures that the boat is responsive even in light breezes. The signature lateen rig, a triangular sail set on a long spar, contributes to its ease of setup and simple operation, making it particularly well-suited for beginners and casual recreational sailors.

The Mach II's hull, made of plastic polyethylene, and its daggerboard keel type further underscore its design as a highly portable and beachable vessel, ideal for day sailing on calm waters. Owners generally find the Snark Mach II to be stable and forgiving, living up to the brand's promise of a "foolproof" entry into sailing. Its lightweight nature means it can be easily launched and retrieved, and its straightforward design minimizes complex handling procedures, allowing sailors to focus on the basics of wind and water.

Accommodations and Layout

As a small, 13.83-foot day sailor, the Snark Mach II does not feature traditional "accommodations" in the sense of a cabin or sleeping berths. Instead, its layout is characterized by an open cockpit designed for simplicity and functionality. The generous beam of 4.04 feet provides a surprisingly stable platform for its size, offering seating for one or two individuals, albeit snugly.

The open design allows for easy boarding and disembarking, and the lack of complex interior structures keeps the boat lightweight and easy to maintain. The hull's polyethylene construction is inherently low-maintenance, resisting rot and requiring minimal upkeep. Storage on board is limited to small personal items, often stowed in dry bags or within the open hull structure. Ventilation is naturally excellent due to the open-air design. The primary focus of the Mach II's layout is to provide a straightforward and enjoyable on-water experience without the complexities of larger cruising sailboats.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Snark Mach II, and Snark sailboats in general, consistently praise their solid construction, affordability, and the accessible nature of the sailing experience they offer. Many Snark owners acquired their boats through retailers like Sears, often at very reasonable prices, further contributing to their reputation as an excellent value for money. The simplicity of the design and the robust Corelite/Armorclad construction are frequently highlighted as strengths, making these boats durable and easy to maintain.

Common sentiments among owners include appreciation for the boat's stability and its suitability as a learning platform for new sailors. The ease of transport and storage due to its lightweight nature (approximately 90 pounds) is also a significant advantage. While these boats are not designed for speed or luxury, owners value the uncomplicated enjoyment and the low barrier to entry that the Mach II provides. The vibrant online community surrounding Snark boats further attests to the enduring appeal and shared passion for these beloved small sailboats.