Sailing Performance & Handling
The Mojito 888 is built on a high-performance hull characterized by a double-chine design, which provides exceptional form stability and power at high heel angles. According to technical specifications from IDB Marine, the vessel features a light displacement of approximately 2,850 kg, paired with a generous sail area of 56 m² (31 m² mainsail and 25 m² genoa). This high Sail Area-to-Displacement ratio allows the boat to plane early; owner anecdotes and magazine tests frequently report the hull "taking off" in as little as 10–12 knots of wind.
Handling is defined by a twin-rudder configuration that ensures maximum control and grip when the boat is pressed hard under a large asymmetric spinnaker. The signature feature of the 888’s underwater profile is its swinging keel, which telescopes from a deep 2.25 meters for upwind efficiency down to just 0.95 meters. This allows the boat to access shallow anchorages or beached safely using its integrated retractable beaching legs. While a fixed keel version exists, the majority of the fleet utilizes the lifting mechanism to balance offshore Category A (Ocean) capabilities with the versatility of a coastal cruiser.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Inside, the Mojito 888 is defined by its panoramic coachroof, which offers near 360-degree visibility from the saloon—a rare feature for a boat of this size. This design floods the cabin with natural light and allows the crew to keep watch from the comfort of the settees. The layout typically includes a forward V-berth that can be partitioned or left open to enhance the sense of space, a double aft cabin to starboard, and a large technical locker or "garage" to port.
The most innovative interior feature is the integrated tender garage located beneath the cockpit floor. This space can accommodate a fully inflated 2-meter dinghy, which can be deployed through a tilting transom platform. In 2019, the shipyard introduced the "Virgin Mojito 888," an eco-responsible variant that replaced traditional fiberglass with flax fiber and used cork and PET foam in the sandwich construction. This variant maintains the same structural integrity while significantly reducing the vessel's carbon footprint.
The Mojito 888 shares its hull with its sibling, the Malango 888. While the Malango features a more traditional, low-profile coachroof and is often preferred by those seeking a more classic "sports" aesthetic, the Mojito’s raised roof provides significantly more headroom and interior volume, making it the preferred choice for extended family cruising.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Mojito 888 enjoys a strong reputation in the European nautical press, particularly in France. Its status as the 2015 Boat of the Year solidified its place as a "benchmark" for the modern fast cruiser. Sail Magazine has highlighted the boat as one of the most eye-catching sports cruisers in Europe, noting its successful melding of racing inspiration with airy, bright accommodations. It is a frequent subject of comparison in tests against the Pogo 30 and the Django 7.70, often being cited for its superior "intelligent" use of space.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus on technical areas unique to the Mojito's innovative design:
- Keel Mechanism: The hydraulic or manual lifting keel mechanism requires regular inspection. Owners should check the pivot bolt for wear and ensure the ram (if hydraulic) is free of leaks.
- Panoramic Window Seals: The large expanse of acrylic in the coachroof is subject to thermal expansion. Inspect the sealant beads for signs of UV degradation or weeping, especially in boats kept in high-temperature climates.
- Tender Garage Drain: The garage area can accumulate water if the transom seals are worn or if the internal drains become clogged. Verify that the bilge pump in this compartment is fully functional and that there are no signs of standing water under the cockpit sole.
- Core Integrity: While the vacuum-infusion process is high-quality, the "Virgin" models using flax and cork require specialized knowledge if repairs are ever needed. Ensure no moisture has compromised the natural fibers around deck hardware penetrations.
Community & Resources
The primary resource for technical data and factory support is IDB Marine, which maintains an active relationship with its owners. In the French sailing community, the boat is well-represented on technical forums like Hisse et Oh, where owners exchange advice on optimizing the "Virgin" construction materials and sharing performance polars.
The Verdict
The Mojito 888 is a sophisticated, high-performance cruiser that offers a level of innovation and visibility rarely seen in 29-foot sailboats.
Pros:
- Exceptional performance in medium to heavy air, with easy planing capability.
- The tender garage is a "game-changer" for those who frequently use an inflatable dinghy.
- Category A certification provides true offshore peace of mind.
- Lifting keel allows for creek crawling and beaching.
Cons:
- The aesthetic of the panoramic "bubble" roof is polarizing for traditionalists.
- Limited availability in North American and non-European markets.
- The tender garage reduces some aft storage space compared to traditional designs.
