Mallard 19 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Mallard 19 is a centerboard sloop that reflects the stable, predictable handling characteristics typical of Customflex’s broader fleet. With a beam of 6'11" and an approximate displacement of 900 pounds, the hull provides a high degree of initial stability compared to narrower racing dinghies. Its sail plan, typically consisting of a mainsail and a working jib, is manageable for a single-handed sailor but remains powerful enough to move the boat efficiently in light air.

According to owner accounts and historical marketing materials, the boat’s handling is characterized by a "heavy dinghy" feel; it is responsive to the tiller but less prone to the rapid, nervous capsizing risks found in the Snipe or Comet. The centerboard configuration allows for a draft of approximately 4'8" when fully deployed, providing sufficient lift for upwind performance, while a draft of only 8 inches with the board retracted makes it an ideal vessel for gunkholing and beaching. Unlike the Interlake, which is optimized for the chop of the Great Lakes, the Mallard 19’s hull volume is distributed to support the extra weight of the cabin and overnight gear, resulting in a slightly slower but more comfortable motion through the water.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the open-cockpit Flying Scot or Lightning, the Mallard 19 features a molded fiberglass cuddy cabin that offers rudimentary accommodations for two adults. The interior layout is Spartan, typically consisting of two V-berths measuring approximately 6'6" in length. While there is no standing headroom—a physical impossibility for a 19-foot trailerable boat of this era—the cabin provides a dry space for gear storage or shelter during a rainstorm.

Materials are consistent with Customflex's mid-century production standards, utilizing robust hand-laid fiberglass with minimal teak or mahogany trim to reduce maintenance. Some variations of the Mallard 19 were produced with different cockpit layouts; while the primary version emphasizes a large, self-bailing cockpit capable of seating four to six adults, some rare custom iterations featured modified shelving or storage bins within the cabin to better support extended cruising. The sibling relationship with the Interlake is evident in the hardware and rigging, which were often shared between models to ensure consistency and ease of parts replacement.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Customflex Mallard 19 should focus on the structural integrity of the fiberglass and the mechanical function of the centerboard, as these boats are now several decades old.

1. Deck Core Delamination: Like many boats from the 1960s and 70s, the Mallard 19 utilizes a cored deck in certain areas. Buyers should check for soft spots, particularly around the mast step and the shroud chainplates, which can indicate water intrusion and rot.
2. Centerboard Trunk Leaks: The centerboard trunk is a common point of failure. Inspect the trunk for cracks or signs of "weeping" where the trunk meets the hull. Additionally, the pivot pin and the cable used to raise the board should be checked for corrosion or wear.
3. Transom Stress: Because the Mallard 19 is often used with a small outboard motor (typically 2–5 hp), the transom can suffer from stress cracking if a heavy engine was used or if the mounting bracket was not properly reinforced.
4. Rudder Hardware: The pintles and gudgeons are prone to wear over time. Ensure there is no significant play in the rudder assembly, as this can severely degrade steering feel and safety in heavy weather.

Community & Resources

While the Mallard 19 does not have a dedicated one-design class association as active as the Flying Scot Sailing Association, owners are frequently welcomed into the broader Customflex community. Resources for technical data and restoration advice are often found through the Interlake Sailing Class Association, as the build techniques and many rigging components are identical between the two models. Owners also frequently collaborate with Terry Kilpatrick at the current Customflex facility in Whitehouse, Ohio, for specialized repairs and historical documentation.

The Verdict

The Customflex Mallard 19 is a robust, honest daysailer that offers just enough "small-boat" capability to satisfy the itch for weekend cruising without the complexity of a larger keelboat.

Pros:

• Versatility: The combination of a centerboard and a cuddy cabin makes it suitable for both shallow-water exploring and overnight camping.
• Build Quality: Hand-laid fiberglass construction from a reputable American builder ensures long-term durability.
• Ease of Transport: At 900 lbs, it is easily towable by a standard passenger vehicle, facilitating access to various inland and coastal waterways.

Cons:

• Limited Headroom: The cabin is strictly for sleeping or storage; all living activities must occur in the cockpit.
• Age: Most hulls will require some level of restoration, specifically regarding deck cores and centerboard hardware.
• Niche Appeal: It lacks the large racing fleets of its Customflex siblings, making it less ideal for sailors seeking competitive one-design regattas.