Archambault unveils first M34

by Mark Rothfield on 4 Jun 2010 French yachtbuilder Archambault has just unveiled its eaglery awaited M34 sportsyacht, the wonder one-designer!

Imagine a mid-sized racing yacht that is trailable yet offshore capable. One that sports a carbon rig and foils, and a light, strong, high-tech epoxy hull that will leave 40-footers in its distant wake. The world need wait no longer for such a boat, as the Archambault M34 has arrived.

Finally, after months in design and development, the shrouds have just come off to reveal the first glimpse of the Archambault M34 in the French factory.

The wonder one-designer has been selected as the new class for yachting's famous Tour De France a la Voile, beating 22 other design submissions from nine nations.

It's longer, considerably faster and more seaworthy than the Farr 30 (ex-Mumm) it replaces in the Tour, with the design brief calling for offshore capability, easy transportation by road, a shallow draft to enter tidal ports, and a retractable bowsprit for a powerful asymmetric spinnaker.

Such features will make this water-borne Ferrari perfect for Australian conditions. Owners can compete in long-distance offshore races and also tow the boat between the major regatta venues for the cost of fuel!

Archambault, the world's most successful IRC production yacht manufacturer, was the perfect choice to conceive and construct the Joubert/Nivelt/Mercier design.

As a boutique builder it bridges the gap between mass production and custom construction, investing every boat with the utmost quality, craftsmanship and care.

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The use of SP System multiaxial glass-carbon, Corecell M-Foam, and epoxy resin afford maximum strength and lightness, while the rudder and keel are both carbon, with a lead torpedo bulb hanging on the latter. An internal lifting mechanism reduces the keel draft from 2.5 metres to just 1.7 metres. The carbon mast is from Southern Spars – it comes in two sections which allows for easy trailability. The fixed bow-sprit is also removeable.

Rod rigging is standard, as is Harken deck hardware and winches and a Volvo 12hp diesel engine with racing prop. Nexus electronics are favoured under class association rules.

Hull weight is only 2400kg and the M34 will pack 72 sq metres of sail upwind, and a 130 sq metre spinnaker off the breeze.

Despite huge international demand for the boat, importer Archambault Australia has secured two production slots for 2010. The boat is priced at $259,000 on trailer, fully commissioned, which is exceptional value for such a high quality European sportsyacht.

Call (02) 4962 5288 or email sales(at)newcastleyachting.com.au for details and location of your nearest A-team dealership.

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