Meta Damien II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

As a heavy-displacement schooner, the Damien II is designed for directional stability and ease of handling in heavy weather rather than light-wind agility. The schooner rig allows the sail area to be divided into smaller, more manageable units, which is a significant advantage for short-handed crews operating in the unpredictable gusts of the Southern Ocean or the Arctic. The hull typically features a "dériveur lesté" (weighted lifting keel) configuration, a design choice championed by Joubert to allow the boat to enter shallow anchorages or dry out safely in tidal zones.

The sailing feel is often described as "stiff" and "reassuring." With a high displacement-to-length ratio, the Damien II does not plane, but it carries its momentum through chop with minimal hobby-horsing. According to editorial retrospectives in Voiles et Voiliers, the boat’s ability to track straight under windvane steering is one of its most lauded traits, making it a favorite for solo or couple-based circumnavigations. While the wetted surface area of the twin-keel or lifting-keel versions can hamper performance in light airs, the boat is remarkably capable when the breeze exceeds 15 knots, maintaining a comfortable motion that reduces crew fatigue.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Damien II is a departure from the cramped quarters of mid-century offshore cruisers, prioritizing volume and protection from the elements. Most iterations feature a prominent raised coachroof with large windows, providing a "deck saloon" experience that allows the watch-keeper to monitor the surroundings from a warm, dry environment. Because Meta specialized in semi-custom builds, interior layouts vary significantly between hulls. Common configurations include a large aft master cabin located under the cockpit or a dedicated workshop area for self-sufficiency in remote regions.

The use of the Strongall construction method influences the interior experience significantly; the thick aluminum hull provides a natural barrier against noise and, when properly insulated with sprayed polyurethane foam, creates a condensation-free environment essential for polar sailing. Sibling models based on this design philosophy include the Damien 3 (a 12-meter version) and the Damien IV, which adapted the rugged Joubert lines for larger crews or commercial expedition work. The materials used inside are typically functional—marine plywood with solid wood trim—emphasizing durability over the high-gloss finishes found on Mediterranean cruisers.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Damien II’s cultural footprint is inextricably linked to Jérôme Poncet and the vessel also named Damien II. Poncet used this model to pioneer small-boat expeditions to Antarctica, eventually settling in the Falkland Islands. The boat’s rugged silhouette has appeared in numerous documentaries and books detailing the "Golden Age" of French offshore sailing. The legacy of the Damien series helped establish the Meta shipyard as the premier builder for serious French "voyageurs," a reputation that persists today with their modern "Strongall" trawlers and sailing yachts.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a Damien II must focus their surveys on the unique characteristics of metal construction. While the Strongall method is incredibly robust, it requires a disciplined approach to maintenance.

• Galvanic Corrosion: The primary threat to any aluminum hull. Buyers should conduct a thorough "silver/silver chloride" reference electrode test to check for stray current. Inspect all through-hull fittings to ensure they are properly isolated from the hull.
• Insulation Integrity: On older hulls, the insulation may have settled or been removed in certain areas. Check for "sweating" (condensation) behind cabinetry, which can lead to localized corrosion or mold.
• Lifting Keel Mechanism: If the vessel is a "dériveur" (lifting keel) version, the pivot pin, hoist cable, and the internal trunk should be inspected for wear and shell growth, which can jam the board.
• Paint Adhesion: Metal boats require specific epoxy primer systems. Look for bubbling or "pustules" under the paint, especially near the waterline and deck hardware, which indicates the aluminum is oxidizing underneath.
• Rigging Loads: As a schooner, the Damien II has a more complex standing rigging arrangement than a sloop. Ensure the chainplates—often integrated directly into the hull—are free of cracks or significant pitting.

Community & Resources

The primary technical authority for the Damien II remains the Meta Shipyard, which still holds the original plans and can provide guidance on structural repairs or modifications. While there is no formal "Damien II Class Association," the French "Voilier de Voyage" community on platforms like Hisse-et-Oh provides a wealth of shared knowledge from owners who have refitted these vessels for modern cruising.

The Verdict

The Meta Damien II is not a yacht for the casual weekend sailor, but rather a specialized tool for the high-seas adventurer. Its overbuilt construction and schooner rig make it one of the most capable blue-water vessels of the 20th century.

Pros:

• Structural Integrity: The Strongall aluminum construction is among the toughest hull types ever built.
• Heavy Weather Prowess: Excellent tracking and a manageable sail plan for extreme conditions.
• Expedition Ready: Ample storage, high payload capacity, and excellent insulation potential.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: Requires constant vigilance against electrolysis and corrosion.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement and high wetted surface make for slow progress in calms.
• Complexity: The schooner rig and lifting keel systems require more maintenance than a simple fixed-keel sloop.