AS DE Trefle Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The As de Trèfle was engineered for competitive racing under the IOR (International Offshore Rule) of the early 1970s. With a displacement of roughly 1,200 kg and a ballast of 500 kg, it boasts a remarkably high ballast-to-displacement ratio (over 40%), which provides the stiffness necessary to carry a generous sail plan. On the water, the boat is known for its agility and responsiveness.

In light to moderate winds, the boat excels, particularly on downwind reaches where its relatively flat hull sections allow it to plane earlier than its contemporaries. However, because of its IOR heritage—characterized by a pinched stern and wide beam amidships—handling can become "nervous" when pressed hard in heavy following seas. Owners often note that the boat requires active trimming and attention to the helm to maintain a straight track in a blow. Despite this, its reputation for "sea-kindliness" remains high for a vessel of its size, as noted in historical reviews within the French publication Voiles et Voiliers, which lauded the design for its ability to punch above its weight class in offshore conditions.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a boat under 22 feet, the interior of the As de Trèfle is surprisingly functional, though it reflects the minimalist standards of the 1970s racing circuit. The layout typically features four berths: a double "V" berth in the forepeak and two settee berths in the main cabin. Headroom is limited, as is common in Quarter Tonners, requiring a "stooped" posture for most adults.

The materials used by Mallard were robust, featuring molded fiberglass liners and simple teak or mahogany accents. While most units were built for racing (often referred to as the "As de Trèfle Sport"), some variations were outfitted with more "luxurious" cruising amenities, including a small slide-out galley and a portable head located under the forward V-berth. A notable sibling to this model is the Ecume de Mer, a slightly larger Finot design that shared much of the As de Trèfle’s DNA but offered a more substantial interior for coastal cruising. Another variant to consider is the Mallard 7.3, which utilized some of the design evolutions pioneered by the As de Trèfle to provide more volume.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an As de Trèfle should be aware that these vessels are now over 50 years old, and their condition will depend heavily on past maintenance.

• Keel Attachment: Given its history as a racer, the keel bolts and the hull-to-keel joint should be the first priority of any survey. Look for "smile" cracks at the leading edge of the keel or signs of rust around the internal bolt washers.
• Deck Delamination: Like many boats from the early 1970s, the As de Trèfle uses a sandwich construction for the deck. Soft spots, particularly around the mast step and the chainplates, indicate moisture ingress into the balsa or foam core.
• Osmosis: While Mallard hulls were generally well-built, early polyester resins are susceptible to osmotic blistering. A moisture meter test on the hull below the waterline is essential.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Many of these boats still carry original or aged standing rigging. Inspect the chainplates for signs of fatigue or "crevice corrosion" where they pass through the deck.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the As de Trèfle is preserved primarily within French sailing circles and Mini 6.50 enthusiast groups, as the boat served as a spiritual predecessor to the Mini class. The most definitive resource for technical drawings and original specifications is the Finot-Conq Architect Site, which maintains a dedicated archive for the model. Owners also frequently congregate under the umbrella of broader "Quarter Tonner" associations in Europe, which celebrate the restoration and racing of these vintage designs.

The Verdict

The As de Trèfle is a "sailor’s sailboat," offering a pure and historical connection to the birth of modern performance yachting. It is an ideal choice for a purist looking for a vintage racer that can still outperform many modern boats in its size range.

Pros:

• Excellent performance-to-size ratio and historically significant design.
• Strong, stiff hull capable of handling spirited club racing.
• Relatively simple systems, making it an affordable entry point into classic boat ownership.

Cons:

• Cramped interior with limited headroom, unsuitable for extended cruising.
• The IOR hull shape can be tricky to handle in heavy following seas.
• Aging fiberglass and core materials require careful inspection and potential restoration.