Django 6.70 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing DNA of the Django 6.70 is rooted in the Mini Transat class, which is evident in its aggressive hull geometry. With a beam of 2.99 meters—exceptionally wide for a boat only 6.70 meters long—the vessel possesses immense form stability. This allows the boat to carry a generous sail plan of approximately 36 square meters upwind. On the water, this translates to a boat that feels stiff and secure, resisting heel even when pressed.

The handling is characterized by its ability to plane early. In a breeze, the Django 6.70 transitions from displacement speeds to planing with minimal fuss, often hitting double-digit speeds on a reach. Its twin rudders provide exceptional grip, preventing the "broaching" common in narrower, single-rudder designs when overpowered. According to editorial reviews by French sailing outlets such as Voile Magazine, the boat tracks with remarkable precision, a direct result of its chined hull which "locks in" once the boat is slightly heeled. The option for a lifting keel (1.60m down) or a fixed deep keel (1.60m) allows owners to tailor the performance to their local waters, though the lifting keel remains the most popular for its versatility in shallow European estuaries.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its racing heritage, the interior of the Django 6.70 is surprisingly habitable, offering a level of comfort that belies its 22-foot length. The wide beam creates a cavernous feel for a boat of this size, accommodating four berths: a double V-berth forward and two long settee berths in the salon. A standout feature of the design is the panoramic coachroof window, which floods the cabin with natural light and allows the crew to monitor the horizon from the comfort of the salon.

The shipyard offers the Django 6.70 in three primary versions: the fixed keel, the lifting keel (pivotant), and the twin keel (bi-quille). While the interior layout remains largely consistent across these versions, the lifting keel model features a central keel trunk that serves as a divider in the cabin. The finishing is typically minimalist, utilizing white gelcoat and light wood accents to maintain a clean, modern aesthetic. Unlike its sibling, the Dingo—which is a stripped-out racing machine—the Django includes a small galley area and a dedicated space for a chemical or marine toilet, making it a viable option for weekend or even week-long coastal cruises for a small family.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Django 6.70 achieved significant critical acclaim upon its release, most notably winning the prestigious "Voilier de l'Année" (Boat of the Year) award in 2011 from the French publication Voile Magazine. This accolade cemented its status as a benchmark in the small cruiser segment. It is frequently cited in European marine media as the quintessential "crossover" boat, appealing to sailors who want the thrill of a Mini 6.50 without the spartan, wet, and cramped conditions of a pure racer. The boat is a common sight in the "Rallye des Iles du Soleil" and other coastal raids, where its speed and ability to take the ground (in the twin-keel version) are highly prized.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a pre-owned Django 6.70, focus should be directed toward the keel and its associated hardware. On lifting keel models, the pivot pin and the internal lifting mechanism (whether manual or hydraulic) should be checked for play or corrosion. Because these boats are often sailed hard and are capable of planing, the hull-to-deck joint and the area around the chainplates deserve a close look for stress cracks.

Another area for inspection is the sandwich core of the deck. While Marée Haute’s infusion process is high-quality, any aftermarket hardware installations that were not properly sealed can lead to moisture ingress in the balsa or foam core. Finally, examine the twin rudder bearings; given the high loads these rudders endure during high-speed reaching, any significant "slop" in the tiller head or bearings may necessitate a replacement of the bushings.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Django 6.70 benefit from a tight-knit community centered around the Marée Haute shipyard and the "Django Owners" groups often found on European sailing forums. The Marée Haute official site remains a primary resource for technical drawings and parts, as the builder continues to support the Django range. Additionally, the Mini 6.50 class associations provide a wealth of technical knowledge regarding the hull’s performance characteristics, as much of the rigging and hardware logic is shared with the Dingo racing model.

The Verdict

The Django 6.70 is an uncompromising performance cruiser that offers a rare blend of racing speed and coastal comfort. It is ideally suited for the sailor who values "smiles per mile" but still wants to be able to sleep aboard in a dry, well-lit cabin at the end of the day.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and safety for its size, capable of offshore passages.
• Early planing performance and high speeds in a breeze.
• Bright, airy interior with excellent visibility via the panoramic window.
• Versatile keel options, including a beachable twin-keel version.

Cons:

• Minimalist interior may feel "too basic" for those accustomed to traditional heavy cruisers.
• The wide beam can make finding a standard-width slip in crowded marinas more difficult.
• High demand on the second-hand market keeps resale prices significantly higher than typical 22-footers.