On test: Mojito 6.5

Interior

Below decks is a very interesting open plan interior with a large properly rectangular double bunk forward. Overall, it’s a bright and appealing space with a folding two leaf table that will seat six and a basic galley around the keel box. e companionway is o set to port, which means those sitting around the starboard side of the saloon table aren’t in the way of anyone wanting to get in or out of the boat.

Unlike most boats of this size the saloon doesn’t feel claustrophobic with four people and there’s impressive stowage. e wide beam gives space for deep bins outside of the settees and the forward double berth that will easily swallow a dozen kit bags or sail bags. ere are also two generously proportioned quarter berths, meaning four people can be accommodated comfortably without using the saloon settees. Sitting headroom is ample, but for some the biggest downside is the lack of an enclosed heads compartment. Instead, a chemical toilet can be stowed behind the companionway steps and slid forward for use when necessary.

In many ways this is entirely in keeping with the builder’s plan to create a modern day Muscadet or Coco. ese 21 mini o shore yachts from the 1960s and 1980s respectively now have a cult-like following in France, while the former played a big part in the democratisation of sailing in the country as Eric Tabarly rose to fame.

ABOVE

A design that de nitely dares to be di erent

BELOW

Plentiful interior volume

RUPERT’S VERDICT

Over the past few years the Mojito brand has established a reputation for well designed nicely built daysailers and weekenders that dare to be di erent. With the 650 the yard has followed a sensible balance between simplicity, comfort and extracting the enormous performance potential of the core design. e result is a thoroughly attractive small cruiser and weekender with excellent standard of nish. As standard construction is now ax bres, recycled PET foam core and bio sourced resins.

Few boats will turn heads like this one does, or o er as much fun for as little e ort. Despite being 250kg heavier than the race boat on which it’s based, and having a detuned rig, performance and handling are still impeccable.

PERFORMANCE: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ PRACTICALITY: ★ ★ ★★★ LOOKS: ★ ★ ★★ ★

THE SPEC

LOA 6.50m Beam 3.0m Draught 0.8-1.85m Light displacement 1,200kg Mainsail 21m2 Headsail 17m2 Gennaker 47m2 Base price €75,075 ex VAT Contact: idbmarine.com