Super Arlequin Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Super Arlequin are defined by its IOR heritage, prioritizing upwind efficiency and stiffness. Under sail, the boat feels exceptionally balanced, a trait often attributed to André Mauric’s philosophy of hull symmetry. In light to moderate air, the Super Arlequin is surprisingly nimble; however, like many designs of its era with significant tumblehome, it can become "tender" initially before locking in once the hull’s wide midsection meets the water.

The boat was offered in two primary configurations: the GTE (Grand Tirant d’Eau) with a deep draft of approximately 1.70 meters, and the PTE (Petit Tirant d’Eau) with a shallower 1.45-meter keel. Reviewers from the French publication Bateaux have historically praised the GTE version for its superior pointing ability and reduced leeway. Handling is generally considered forgiving, though the large genoa—standard for IOR boats—requires a physically active crew for frequent tacking. Downwind, the narrow stern can lead to some rhythmic rolling in heavy following seas, a common quirk for 1970s racers that requires an attentive hand on the tiller.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its size and era, the Super Arlequin offers a functional, albeit spartan, interior that maximizes the available beam. The layout typically features five berths: a double V-berth in the forward cabin, two settee berths in the saloon, and a single quarter berth to starboard. The use of wood veneers and molded fiberglass liners gives the cabin a warmer feel than many contemporary "bleached" interiors, though the headroom is somewhat limited for sailors over six feet tall.

The primary variation between builds involves the transition from the original Arlequin to the "Super" designation. The Super Arlequin gained a more pronounced coachroof, which significantly increased the interior volume and provided a dedicated galley area and a small navigation station. While later iterations improved the joinery quality, the boat remains a "sailor’s boat" first and a "caravan" second; storage is optimized for sails and gear rather than long-term liveaboard luxury.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Super Arlequin’s reputation is deeply rooted in the French racing circuit. It gained international attention following the success of its predecessor in the Half Ton Cup, an event that influenced a generation of European sailors. While it has not been a "star" of major motion pictures, it is frequently cited in French sailing literature as the quintessential entry-level offshore cruiser for young sailors in the 70s and 80s. Its pedigree is often compared to the First 30 (also a Mauric design), and it maintains a cult following in the Atlantic and Mediterranean cruising communities.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Super Arlequin with a focus on its structural longevity, as many units have been campaigned heavily in club races.

• Osmosis: Like many French hulls from the 1970s, the Super Arlequin is prone to osmotic blistering. A thorough survey of the hull below the waterline is essential, especially if the boat has been kept in warm Mediterranean waters.
• Engine Replacement: Many original units were equipped with older Yanmar or Volvo Penta engines that are now well past their service life. Check for recent repowers; a boat with an original 10hp engine may require a significant investment to remain reliable.
• Deck Delamination: The sandwich construction of the deck can suffer from soft spots, particularly around the mast step and the chainplates. Ensure the deck feels "crisp" underfoot and show no signs of compression.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Given the boat’s age, the stainless steel chainplates and standing rigging should be meticulously inspected for fatigue cracks, particularly where the bolts penetrate the hull.
• Rudder Play: The spade rudder on the Super Arlequin can develop play in the bushings over time. While not a terminal issue, it can degrade the helm feel that the boat is famous for.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical knowledge and owner support is the Association des Propriétaires d'Arlequin (APA). Based in France, this organization maintains an archive of technical drawings and provides a forum for owners to discuss restoration projects and race tuning. While the community is predominantly French-speaking, their technical wikis are the most authoritative source for original manufacturer specifications and refit advice.

The Verdict

The Super Arlequin is a "thinking sailor's" classic, offering a level of performance and aesthetic grace that is hard to find in modern, high-volume cruisers. It is best suited for those who prioritize the joy of sailing and the ability to handle coastal offshore passages over interior amenities.

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance and balanced helm.
• Proven offshore pedigree from a master designer (André Mauric).
• Robust construction capable of handling heavy weather.
• Affordable entry point into the "classic plastic" racer-cruiser market.

Cons:

• Interior headroom and storage are tight by modern standards.
• Large overlapping headshells can be physically demanding for short-handed crews.
• Aging fleet often requires significant updates to systems and engines.
• The narrow stern can make the boat lively (and sometimes difficult) downwind in big seas.