allures sailboat

The ALLURES 51.9 making waves

We find out as we test their flagship model, the Allures 51.9, on a blustery day in Cherbourg, France.

The Allures sailboats, also this Allures 51.9, are designed and constructed in the same French shipyard as Garcia, so you appreciate the incredible craftsmanship and pedigree of blue water cruisers going into the range of Allures yachts. From the beginning, it retains Allures’ niche of using aluminium hulls with glass fibre decks and superstructures, which, the yard maintains, gives the optimum combination of low maintenance and less weight higher up. Priorities for this design were a full beam aft cabin and a spacious, long cockpit. At 7m long, the latter offers formidable social, sailing and aft deck zones. The range consists of 2 models, 45.9 and 51.9 (from 45 to 51 feet), intended for adventurous sailors looking for a reliable, safe, comfortable and easy-to-handle blue water sailboat singlehanded or with a reduced crew.

With a glut of 50ft yachts launched this year, there’s something for everyone – as long as you want and can afford a 50-something foot yacht. If you’re after a go-anywhere cruiser, the Allures 51.9 firmly ticks that box, but just because she can sail across oceans doesn’t mean she’s any less of a coastal cruiser.

The grey aluminium hull might not be to everyone’s taste, but it’s insanely beneficial; it won’t crack or craze, it doesn’t fade or need polishing, or like most owners nowadays, you can have an excellent colourful wrap as this particular 51.9 has.

I don’t have anything against fixed keels, but there are times when I wish they weren’t so deep or so fixed. The centreboard makes a host of harbours and anchorages more accessible to this boat than to many smaller yachts. She’s also a comfortable yacht to live on board. What’s not to love about her? Surprisingly little.

Great conditions

The day started well with 18-22 KTS of wind; as far as I’m concerned, perfect sailing weather . We had 1-1.5 metres of swell as the tide changed with 2KTS of tidal flow. This particular Allures 51.9 had just been put in the water two days ago, so we had a team of carpenters, mechanical and electrical engineers on board, plus a skipper to test all the systems as the long but thorough process of getting this Allures 51.9 ready for the owner. You would have thought the boat would be a little crowded, but there was plenty of space for everyone, down to the intelligent way Allures designed the cockpit area or, as the team kept referring to it, the three cockpit zones.

In lighter conditions, she won’t win many prizes for speed and agility without extra sails, but as cruisers go, she’s excellent. We set full mainsail and genoa, and she came into her own as the wind increased.

She has a long skeg, which protects the prop and gives her good directional stability. Her centreboard can reduce her draught from 3.1m to 1.34m; with the board fully down, she wasn’t particularly high-winded, feeling most comfortable around 35-38° off the wind close hauled.

On a fetch, she makes good speed, and as the wind increased to 18-22 knots AWS, she was soon charging along in excess of 8.5 knots which by any means is a result as she is not a light boat weighing in at 18.4T and around 22T fully loaded.

Allures 51.9 Deck Layout

The cockpit is one of the best I have seen and worked in, with three decisive zones; Zone 1 aft, you have a voluminous sun deck and colossal storage lazaret, with room for bikes, paddle boards, dive tanks, outboard motor and so on. Both to port and starboard, there are two more lockers (and access to steering) and extra storage. This locker also is part of your 1st and 2nd water-tight bulkheads ensuring high levels of safety. Like most yachts, there is a sizeable drop-down transom (bathing platform), giving excellent access to the water.

Zone 2 is where the magic happens; twin helm stations and all the working multi-speed self-tailing winches are located. On both pedestals, you have the options of chart plotters, autopilot, electronic engine controls, bow and stern thruster, multi-repeaters VHF, light switches, and the list goes on. All the sheets for the sails and fullers, reefing line, etc., are brought back to this area with plenty of tail bins by the primary and secondary winches to keep your workspace tidy and clear. This area is a skipper’s dream.

Zone 3 , guest and relaxation area, here you will find ample seating for 8 to 10 people sizeable split cockpit table, you have a clear walkway through the entire cockpit, but the table wings fold up to provide a generous table for you and your guests easily seating 8 for those all essential sundowners. This is a very well-protected area, and this particular owner had chosen to have the hardtop option installed, which I can tell you, with the chilly spring northerly wind we had on test day, was extremely welcome as I was agreeably cocooned here, warming up as the engineers were running through the systems. The Allures 51.9 comes with the mainsheet arch as standard and a spray hood, but the hardtop option for extended cruising is well worth your sanity for those colder climates. Moving forward on this 17M yacht is straightforward with inboard and outboard shrowds and a wide walkway, high guard rails, and hand holds/ rails everywhere. The foredeck is huge with flush hatches, so there are no trip hazards giving you easy access to the chain and sail locker. There is a handy ladder for you to descend into the depths of this locker if need be. I felt safe and navigated this boat with ease. The Allures 51.9 is equipt with 30kg spade ancker and 80m of 12mm chain.

Allures 51.9 Rig & Sailplan

This yacht had a large genoa forward a gib and the possibility for an inner staysail – helpful when cross-tacking or with winds over 25 knots TWS; the mast has extra support from running backstays while it’s in use. The genoa can be tacked without furling by experienced sailers, but to make the operation smooth, I found it much easier to furl and unfurl the sail as you might get into a bit of trouble otherwise. With fewer crew, furling most of it before tacking is the better option. The fixed bowsprit can take a code zero, jeneca as we had on the day of testing or furling asymmetric to increase the off-wind sail area.

Accommodation

Stepping down the five companionway steps, you are greeted by what can only be described as an outstandingly modern, clean-lined interior. Large, bright windows open up this luxury living space . This makes her bright and contemporary while retaining traditional values like a functional living space with plenty of valuable handholds everywhere. The layout sees the main saloon offset to starboard with L-shaped seating outboard and a long drop-down table that can be converted into a large double berth (day bed). The table can easily seat 6 to 8 people with the help of two puff-style chairs ( which also give you access to the centre board mechanism. The choice of materials is rich and varied depending on your preference. There’s good stowage under the seats but less outboard due to the hull’s foam insulation (65mm). However, this is less important as the general storage around this Allures 51.9 is generous, as you will see, especially in the technical area. To port, you have a chaise long-style seat adjoining to the chart table and, further forward, a designated chart table chair. This is your command station, come home-office space, which I love having a workspace and chart table in one as an online blogger and YOUTUBER. It tics all the right boxes for me. The swivel chair helps you stay connected with everyone on the boat, whether at the helm, in the galley or salon, making it both practical and social. Here you have the option of another chart plotter, multi-function display, VHF radion, fusion stereo and your onboard digital display for your electrical and fuel systems, to mention a few. A command station gives you that extra peace of mind to check on your systems or work comfortably while on passage or at anchor.

Looking aft, you step down from the saloon to the port side and enter the galley, if you can call it that. It is almost better equipt than my kitchen at home. This galley is designed to be used in any sea condition yet gives you all the mod-cons we demand today: dual stainless fridges, microwave, dishwasher, coffee machine, and storage; you can fit every kitchen tool and appliance invented. The galley has a standard four-burner gas hob, but you can upgrade to induction. As you have plenty of space on this 17-metre (51ft) yacht for solar, it would be a worthwhile option to tick. Fresh water is not a problem, as the watermaker can fill the 620L water tank within an hour or two. The amount of light entering this boat really does show off the modern light oak interior; small details can be missed at first glance, like the band of polished aluminium set into the cabinets and woodwork around the boat; the handholds are covered in light grey hand-stitched leather.

The VIP cabin of Allures 51.9

Moving forward, you have a twin bunk cabin on the starboard side; both bunks are larger than a standard single and equipped with their own reading lights and fans. This small cabin has its own opening hatch for ventilation. An excellent space for your kids or additional crew if you want. There is some storage in here, but it could be better. Just across the passageway, you will find the heads and separate shower, as expected on a sailboat this size. This bathroom can be used as the day heads, shared with the two forward cabins or with the second door used exclusively as the VIP on sweet heads for extra privacy. Electric fresh or salt water flush for the heads and plenty of stowage for all your gubbins. There is a seat set into the shower, which is an excellent safety feature for showering while underway at sea.

The forward VIP cabin is precisely that, light, spacious and a touch luxurious with its walk-around double bed. Eight overhead lockers, an ample single hanging cupboard with draws and a huge draw at the foot of the bed. Twin opening hatches and electric fans help to keep this space well-ventilated if you don’t have the reversible air conditioning option installed. This is another one of those must-have options if you are going to seriously circumnavigate the world. The hull windows are just the right size and height to give you fantastic views from your bed; imagine waking up with the sun shining over white sandy beaches, the distant dark green of palm trees, and the expectation for your days diving at a coral reef or enjoying an importune BBQ on the beach, perfect, except for one thing Allures have done such a good job insulating the hull (65mm) of the 51.9 that it’s very likely you won’t hear the gentle lapping of the sea against the hull, but a sacrifice I am willing to make.

Returning to the salon heading aft, I am reminded why these are such good seaboats; she is a very stable craft with all the wait central (18.4 tones). This is helped by having the fuel tanks (730L) and your water tanks (620L) below the salon floor, providing easy access for any maintenance.

Maintenance

One of the stand-out areas of the Allures is the technical space, accessed on the starboard side aft of the salon and forming the corridor to the owner suite. Allures have dressed this space up for the 51.9 by making it blend in with its surroundings, and all the cabinetry is in the same light oak finish hiding the spare parts, draws, wet locker, extra fridge or freezer and washing machine. There is plenty of room for your tools and any other bits and bobs you might collect for your next adventure. To port, you will find the door for the engine and tec room. The soundproofing and insulation (65mm) are as good as the hull insulation, and I will admit that coming back to the marina, there was some engine noise, as can be expected, but not enough that it would disturb your sleep if you were of-watch on passage. She comes equipt with a Volvo penta D3 110 HP diesel, 40L water heater, fuel & water filters, generator and the list goes on. What is noticeable is how clearly marked all the electrical cables, water pipes, and manifolds are. A well-lit area that was designed with sailors in mind, and access for the generator (Fp generator 5000i) is by lifting three of the companionway steps allowing you complete access.

Aft cabin, Owners suite

The beam of this yacht is genuinely visible here at 4.82M and a standing height off well over 2M. Only a few yachts at the 50ft mark can boast this amount of space and comfort; in fact, only one or two comes to mind, and one of those is a French manufacturer as well. Entering the cabin, you are greeted with light from the nearly complete beam-length windows above the island double bed. As you face the bed, there are two good-sized hanging lookers to your left (starboard side), four overhead lockers, an air-con controller; mains plug and USB chargers. Draws under the bed, and the bed also lifts on gas struts to provide even more stowage. To your right (port side), a lovely lounging chair offers a spot to relax as you soak in your surroundings, pinching yourself occasionally, knowing how lucky you are; four overhead lockers and stowage behind your lounger for books and personal things as well. You also have your own plugs and USB chargers on this side of the bed. This cabin also has its own ensuite heads and separate shower mirroring the forward heads. The choice of materials and fittings grant this cabin a true feeling of luxury.

Would I buy one? The strait answer is yes; I would love to own an Allures 51.9 . It has everything I want in a cruising yacht and much more. She feels indestructible on the water and, with some extra canvas to increase her sail area for light wind days, she’ll lift her skirts and go whatever the weather.

She might not be the most responsive boat on the helm, but when she gets going, you feel like nothing can stop her.

I love that she’s got an aluminium hull because it requires just the amount of upkeep I have time for – absolutely none!

Seeing her approaching will scare most GRP boat owners into action and looking for extra fenders.

The accommodation is spacious, comfortable and versatile; there is room for maintenance and running repairs, relax, be social or hideaway.

The thought of making a morning coffee, sitting at the Salone table, looking out across some remote anchorage.

Is she for you?

If you’re looking for a serious sailboat capable of coastal, offshore and bluewater sailing , the Allures 51.9 should be on your shortlist.

She has layout options to satisfy a couple or a family and can easily be sailed short-handed over long distances. Add to that the ability to dry out or navigate in just over a metre of water gives you a formidable package, even without all the advantages an aluminium hull brings to the table.

With the GRP deck, aluminium round-bilge and centreboard, she’s unique.

Like most yachts, she could benefit from a few minor tweaks here and there, which any owner would have their views on, but Allures can adapt to and incorporate your ideas.

Fact and Figures Allures 51.9

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• Boat Test: Allures 45.9
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“Full main and small jib?” I asked, raising my voice slightly to project above the breeze in the low teens. “I honestly don’t know, this is my first time with the sails up on this boat,” said my friend Molly Howe, the broker who was helping me get out for a sunny February sail. This was going to be a voyage of discovery, and that felt fitting given that the boat I was testing differentiates itself from modern production cruisers in a number of ways. This is the first Allures 45.9 I’ve seen in person, let alone taken sailing. Though a number of them have been sold to Pacific Northwest sailors, they often have taken delivery abroad or immediately headed cruising. I was genuinely stoked to check it out.

The Allures 45.9 is an aluminum-hulled bluewater cruising sailboat with a composite deck, designed and built in France. It endeavors to strike an ideal balance between strength and safety, luxurious comfort and sailing performance. A high bar no doubt, but one I believe it clears impressively after my afternoon of sailing.

Though in the grand scheme of cruising sailboats, perhaps the 45.9’s most notable attribute is its aluminum hull, it wasn’t what caught my eye first. That honor went to large permanent swim step, which is integrated into the aluminum hull. As a fan of simple solutions on go-far boats, this element shined with utility and prudence. Framing the swimstep was a standard aluminum arch which supports a dinghy on davits below and a solar array above, each of which perfectly befit the design.

I climbed aboard and worked my way through a small maze of stainless steel tubing clearly designed to keep the robust cockpit coverings intact in some serious weather. This is less a design aspect and more of a lifestyle choice, and entirely understandable in this corner of the world. While these bimini supports somewhat inhibited easy movement forward, they also gave a sense of security and comfort in the cockpit, which is equally important for shorthanded sailing in the ocean.

I ducked into the interior and loved the layout of numerous windows and warm-toned woods, including the dark brown cabin sole. This isn’t a hand-sculpted custom one-off with joinery that’ll make you misty-eyed, but in the modern cruising sailboat market, it’s notably well finished and will be lastingly functional.

Returning to the deck, we readied for our sail. Flow around the cockpit was easy. We were off the dock in moments with the help of the bow thruster. Rounding the breakwater I asked how much we draw. “Nine-and-a-half with the board down.” Molly replied. That’s right, a person could be forgiven for forgetting that under the waterline there’s more cool design elements. There are two options for underwater appendages: a lifting keel or, in our case, a centerboard. The lifting keel offers heavier ballast but, spoiler alert, we certainly never felt under-ballasted on the centerboard version. It was exciting to be trying out such a deep-drafted cruising boat, that also draws less than 3.5 feet when it comes time to anchor.

The Allures 45.9 has a ⅞ fractional solent rig with swept spreaders, a split fixed backstay and checkstays. A solent rig differs from a cutter because the larger sail (the solent) is a 100% jib instead of a bigger genoa, and the position of the two sails means you won’t be employing them at the same time. Still, I lit up envisioning configuration options not available on many boats. The Allures’ sail area to displacement ratio represents its intent to be equally safe, stout, and sailable. Starting with discretion in 11-14 knots of wind on an unfamiliar boat, we rolled out the staysail with the full main.

Trimmer that I am, once we set the sails, I set about tweaking them. I quickly appreciated the ability to adjust many things. I liked the staysail leads, which could be moved aft under load, and it was interesting to see that the leads for both headsails shared placement on each side’s fore-aft track. I checked out the mainsheet traveler system forward of the dodger, which was clearly robust and wide enough to ably do its job. Pulling the loaded traveler to weather definitely required a winch, though.

Wanting to go check on a few things—cunningham rigging, jib halyard tension—I went forward, carefully exiting our cockpit cocoon. On this trip to the mast, I noticed the height of the step to the cabin top from the side decks. Where I instinctually stepped up, it felt like maybe two feet. Hmm. Looking around, I saw the better option. The coachroof has a gently convex sweep to deck level near the mast. Note to self, take the side-deck to the mast, then step up. Once there, I appreciated the pushpits flanking either side of the mast as we rolled through the wind waves.

We settled in with the preliminary sail configuration and the boat felt stout and sturdy without being sluggish, with the easy motion you’d expect from a cruising boat of this size. We took turns at the helm and noted what seemed like a pretty narrow groove sailing upwind. Taking the wheel, I unconsciously started moving it slightly looking for helm feel, only to discover that the Allures 45.9 has twin rudders. While it means I need to retune my expectations about feel, this design choice is almost guaranteed to be a net benefit for the vast majority of owners, with its increased control and reduced weather helm in breeze. We were making a lazy 5.5 knots at a 50-degree true wind angle and threw in a couple of tacks. We hadn’t come close to having too much sail up for the conditions.

A lot about the cockpit feels just right. It’s cleanly rigged, with cabintop lines led aft under the deck to their clutch and winch locations; and there are two clever line lockers under the cockpit sole. Generally, all the sail controls are effectively located and easy to use. Even with the extensive cockpit coverings, the visibility from the helm stations up the side decks is excellent and the windows through the bimini from the helm offered a perfect view of the mainsail for the driver. I really loved the position of the primary winches, which manage the headsails and their furling lines (the mainsheet trims to the cabin top electric winch). Placed as they are, the primary winches can not only be trimmed from the helm, but will also keep sailors standing inboard in the cockpit instead of leaning or standing farther outboard—a big safety improvement in the offshore environment.

It was only a matter of time before we decided to furl the staysail and try the solent. As soon as we did, the boat just sang. The groove was easier to find and maintain, the boat felt more balanced, and our speed jumped to 7+ knots upwind. We were happier, the boat was happier. We still didn’t feel close to being overpowered, but for the first time that day, the Allures 45.9 felt adequately powered, and all design facets were working in harmony.

The bigger sail also made vastly more sense when we turned off the wind. Soon, some commercial traffic inspired us to throw in a jibe, and I was reminded of the compromise with a solent rig when we had to furl the sail in order to jibe it through. For bluewater sailors whose intervals between maneuvers might be many hours or even days, no biggie; but for cruisers in the Pacific Northwest, furling the solent for every tack or jibe would be something to adjust to.

Getting back to the dock, I returned to the swanky cabin. Moving inside and out, you won’t forget the Allures 45.9 is very beamy at 14.5 feet, yet efforts have clearly been made to reduce the functional width (and associated risk) for sailors. The main salon’s settee table is inviting, but provides crucial handholds around its entire exterior. In the cockpit, the fixed table does the same. Every bit as important, the galley is situated so you could lean against the back of the settee seats while working there in a seaway; much better than less natural bracing or even the tethering I know some offshore cruisers do when cooking underway.

In my opinion, there’s just a lot about the design that hits the mark. The Volvo D2-60 diesel (or optional D2-75) is quite powerful for a boat of this size, and the saildrive pushes the boat to efficient cruising speeds above 9 knots. It was cool to check out the centerboard trunk and to see that it does not require a hydraulic system—a winch easily does the job and means remote repairs will be much easier. Tankage is mostly located under the floorboards, keeping the weight low. The port aft cabin has a single berth that doubles as a workbench and provides stunningly good access to the steering system just aft of there. The forward cabin is indeed luxurious, and the starboard aft double berth is cozy. There are two heads, one with a shower that had more than my 6-foot requirement for standing headroom (head configuration options also exist). To me, the layout points to this boat being mainly set-up for long term cruising for a couple who might occasionally welcome guests, or possibly a small family.

The storage throughout is substantial, perhaps nowhere more on display than the massive forepeak storage locker ahead of the watertight crash bulkhead. It’s where I’d keep my code zero, but you could keep deflated paddleboards or any number of other items stowed there and forget you even had them on board.

In sum, it’s a boat of style and sophistication, one that will deliver delight under sail, inspire confidence in rough weather, and is sure to have you charting courses for distant destinations. Its aluminum hull is strong and forgiving should you find yourself on the bottom or hit a log at full speed. The innovations evident at every turn work beautifully together such that the boat feels at home at sea, just as it was intended.

Joe Cline is the Managing Editor of 48° North . Special thanks to Molly Howe and the crew from Swiftsure Yachts for the opportunity to go sailing on this boat.

Joe Cline has been the Managing Editor of 48° North since 2014. From his career to his volunteer leadership in the marine industry, from racing sailboats large and small to his discovery of Pacific Northwest cruising —Joe is as sail-smitten as they come. Joe and his wife, Kaylin, welcomed a baby girl to their family in December 2021, and he is enjoying fatherhood while still finding time to sail, make music, and tip back a tasty IPA every now and again.

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• Digital Edition

Allures 40.9 vs Ovni 400: French aluminium centreboarders go head-to-head

• November 2, 2020

Two rugged aluminium 40-footers from competing french yards make an interesting comparison. François Tregouet tests the Allures 40.9 and Ovni 400

Back in the mid-2000s the niche market for aluminium centreboarders was disrupted by the arrival of a new upstart, Allures Yachting. Until then, the undisputed market leader was French company Alubat, builders of Ovni at Les Sables d’Olonne.

Last autumn Alubat launched the Ovni 400, a substantial evolution of its original concept, which we went to test sail in Les Sables. Then, just a few days later, it was the turn of competitor Allures to reveal its new 40.9. The opportunity to carry out a comparison of these two ocean cruising prospects was too timely and tempting to ignore.

The original Ovni concept dates back to the 1970s. With their shoal draught and raw, chined aluminium hulls, Ovnis have captured the imagination of serious ocean sailors over the past four decades. More than 1,500 Ovnis have been built, and fulfilled thousands of sailors’ bluewater cruising dreams. Jimmy Cornell famously completed a five-year circumnavigation aboard his Aventura III , an Ovni 43.

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In 2003 engineers Stéphan Constance and Xavier Desmarest created Allures Yachting, with the ambition of revitalising the aluminium centreboarder concept. Starting with a 39.5 the Cherbourg-en-Cotentin-based yard quickly extended its range to 45ft, then a 50-footer.

But after the economic crisis of 2008, demand shrank and this specialised market was challenged by an ever-increasing number of competitors. Alubat began to appear unreactive. It was even close to disappearing in 2014, when it was taken over by a consortium of shareholders that loved the brand.

The Ovni 450 was launched, a refinement of the 445 aimed to innovate without alienating existing customers. Now, however, comes the Ovni 400, marking a real breakthrough.

The beamy hullshape of the Ovni 400 packs plenty of volume. All Ovni photos: François Tregouet

With this new design it is quicker to list what hasn’t changed: its 100% aluminium construction, centreboard keel and suitability for long-distance cruising are the main elements which remain the same.

At first glance, the shape of the hull is the biggest difference. The freeboard is almost vertical; the first curve is close to the waterline and its considerable beam extends almost all the way to the transom.

It has a rounded, slightly inverted bow, extended by a solid aluminium bowsprit. The bow section finishes one third of the way back, and sports a muscly volume visibly influenced by the box rule hulls of the Mini, Class 40 and IMOCA classes.

Slab-sided hull is rounded below the chine

This is combined with a short coachroof and vertical windows, and a clear and uncluttered foredeck that takes little water over the deck. The boat is secure to manoeuvre around on, with wide panels of non-slip and a longitudinal foot brace that runs centrally down the foredeck. Once at anchor, the foredeck area can become a double-bed sunbathing area.

The form and function of the boat almost makes you think of a catamaran – a connection that the Ovni 400’s architects, Alain Mortain and Yanis Mavrikios, are at no pains to deny.

All sail handling can be done from the cockpit, and canvas is hoisted or unfurled from the shelter of the huge companionway canopy. This rests against a solid arch, made of aluminium, which also supports the double mainsheet. When seated at the forward end of the cockpit benches, or on the coaming, you have a particularly well-sheltered watchkeeping station.

Cockpit is secure for helmsman and crew, but particularly under the canopy

At the stern, the twin wheels offer flexible helming: each wheel can be used sitting or standing facing forward, or sitting on the coaming to fix your eyes on the gennaker luff.

The twin rudders respond rapidly, and the genoa sheet winches, which are centred within easy reach, allow the helmsman to fine tune the sails without disturbing the crew. They can sit comfortably installed, well wedged-in, at the solid teak and lacquered aluminium cockpit table.

It takes time to learn how best to sail this modern hull. There is power, for sure, but also plenty of wetted surface area, so you have to find the right angles of wind and heel to optimise performance in light airs and breezier conditions. Under engine (a 50hp Volvo saildrive) the Ovni reaches 6 knots at 2,200rpm.

The airy forward cabin with an island double berth

But it is the Ovni’s comfort, ergonomics and stowage that impress most. The yard’s great experience and customer feedback all show their hand here.

Among the most striking points we liked were the large, rectangular bed in the forward cabin, and panoramic coachroof windows, which give a 180° view from the sliding companionway door. The light joiner work and décor give an uncluttered, modern look.

Practical touches include refrigerator drawers in the galley, which can be opened when the yacht is heeled; a large, and easy to clean moulded heads compartment in the starboard aft cabin; and a proper machinery room – a must for any bluewater sailor – that is accessible from the interior or the cockpit.

Galley with sensible handholds and fiddled worktops is to port

A few details from the first boat need attention, such as protection for the throttle and perhaps fitting the arch slightly further aft.

However, this is a serious candidate for bluewater voyaging . And with serious voyaging in mind, the buyer of the hull in build during our visit to the yard is having his boat equipped with a rigid doghouse to protect crew from any heavy weather.

Allures 40.9

Allures unveiled its latest model at last season’s La Rochelle Boat Show. Anyone familiar with the Allures 39.9 might recognise the deck layout and lines, but many changes have been made here.

The Allures’ deck and superstructure are composite, which allows a more sculpted shape than welded aluminium plate. Photo: Jerome Houyvet

Although the interior layout remains more or less the same, the leap in quality initiated by its designer Isabelle Racoupeau – wife of the yacht’s naval architect Olivier Racoupeau – has changed things substantially. The Allures 40.9’s warm joinery and the attention given to the finishing details makes its predecessor seem dowdy by comparison.

From the stainless steel fiddles at the navstation to the leather-covered reading lights and the white Corian inserts in the saloon table, there is an overall feel of luxury.

Wireless light switches are within easy reach and no longer hidden in the ceiling. It’s these type of small details that give an overall impression of stylishness whilst remaining seamanlike.

Coachroof portlights allow natural light to flood into the 40.9’s saloon. Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

The large roof hatches and five hull windows on each side generate plenty of light. The hull windows are aligned horizontally, so they enhance both the exterior aesthetics and the view from inside.

At sea, the slightly raised chart table and the U-shaped galley positioned close to the companionway allow the off-watch to keep an eye on the outside while staying warm and dry.

The saloon occupies the entire width of the hull, and the saloon table hides the centreboard well. There are a large number of stowage spaces on three levels on each side: under the seats; behind the backrests and under the side decks.

A U-shaped galley is to port, forward of the companionway. Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

Fitted on this boat was good quality insulation foam (optional), which limits temperature changes and avoids any risk of condensation on the inside of the aluminium hull. The deck is of composite construction.

This use of an alloy/composite combination is something that has been well mastered in superyacht builds as well as in aeronautical construction. The saving in production time for the shipyard is obvious, as the interior can be built while the hull is open and without passing the furniture through the companionway hatch. It is not only an economic advantage; the use of a mould also allows the development of different deck shapes, a high level of finish, and better insulation.

As for the aluminium hull, owners love the fact that the lack of paintwork means there is one fewer item of regular maintenance to worry about, and anyone who craves colour can still have the design of their choice with the now-standard vinyl hull wrap.

Photo: Jerome Houyvet

On our test sail we had between 15 and 18 knots of wind, and the Allures 40.9 seemed so easy. At 40° off the apparent wind, we were making 7 knots, and between 8 and 9 knots once we bore off to 115°.

I had another opportunity to sail this boat last year in over 25 knots of wind, and my impression then was equally good.

In quite rough seas the boat hardly took any water over the deck and was sailing at more than 9 knots downwind in spite of having only a jib and mainsail. The only boats overtaking us that day were coastal or ocean racing yachts.

With over 20 knots of wind to get back to Cherbourg, we sailed dead downwind, sails goosewinged as if we were in the tradewinds – albeit not so warm. We’d have liked to hoist a gennaker on the solid bowsprit, to lengthen her stride.

But on this point of sail, and with a swell starting to build, you get the best of the smooth movement that centreboarders provide, and it’s a behaviour that always pleasantly surprises anyone not familiar with this configuration.

The same is true of harbour manoeuvres, especially when going astern. Guided by the twin rudders, and helped by the bow thruster, the Allures 40.9 smoothly slipped into its berth like a hand into a glove, despite a strong crosswind.

Photo: Francois Tregouet

Head to head verdict

Both the Alubat and Allures yards clearly have a technical mastery of their builds. To be convinced of this, you only have to look at the electrical installations. The very high level of quality on both builds dispels any fears about the risk of electrolysis.

The metalwork on both boats is beyond reproach, stowage space is abundant, there are well-placed handrails everywhere and the capacity of the tanks gives all the self-sufficiency you could require. The specifications (below), indicate how evenly matched they are in some areas. So, which one would you choose?

The Allures and Ovni, close though they may appear to be, actually have very clearly differentiated personalities, and it is on this basis that owners will most likely make their choice.

The large and powerful Ovni will seduce those seeking to conquer muscular seas. The sleeker Allures will win the hearts of those who like to travel light. With the Ovni it is possible to customise the (aluminium) deck layout, while the Allures offers the versatility of a glassfibre deck construction.

Both Alubat and Allures deserve praise for the fact that the competition between them has pushed each company to innovate and improve their designs.

Centreboarder + Aluminium = Instability + Electrolysis?

Thousands of aluminium centreboarders have been cruising the world over the last 50 years. But myths die hard. A centreboarder is surely less stable than a keelboat? That’s simply not true. The standards for stability are the same for both. The downside is that the ballast on the centreboarder is higher up, so it requires more ballast to achieve the same righting moment.

A boat of the same length and sail area will be a few hundred kilos heavier – a disadvantage in light airs. On the other hand, the stability is very similar with the centreboard up, so you’re able to sail downwind in very little water or in rough seas.

The layman may also be worried about electrolysis in aluminium yachts. To dispel this biggest myth: the weak alloy of a lost penny dropped in the bilge won’t work its way through the 10-15mm of solid aluminium hull.

Ultimately, the electrical installations by shipyards such as Allures and Alubat are first class. Current leakage testers are a standard fit, warning of any deterioration, but also of possible problems if additional equipment is installed during the long life of the boat.

Allures 40.9 specification

LOA: 12.65m / 41ft 6in Beam: 4.15m / 13ft 7in Draught: 1.06–2.75 m / 3ft 6in–9ft Displacement (lightship): 10,900kg / 24,030lb Upwind sail area: 82.5m² / 883ft² Cabins: 2-3 Engine: 50hp Water capacity: 330lt / 73gal Fuel capacity: 400lt / 88gal Starting price: €313,000 (ex. VAT) Price as tested: €374,029 Design: Berret Racoupeau Yacht Design

Ovni 400 specification

LOA: 12.90m / 42ft 4in Beam (max): 4.35m / 14ft 3in Draught: 0.98–2.88 m / 3ft 3in–9ft 5in Displacement (lightship): 11,200kg / 24,692lb Upwind sail area: 85m² / 915ft² Cabins: 2-3 Engine: 50hp Water capacity: 400lt / 88gal Fuel capacity: 540lt / 119gal Starting price: €309,000 (ex. VAT) Price as tested: €420,045 Design: Mortain & Mavrikios

First published in the October 2020 issue of Yachting World.

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Allures 51.9

Description

Allures 51.9  ‘Experience Freedom’

The Allures 51.9 is an exceptional sailing boat, offering a pure experience at sea and at anchor. This new model jostles the universe of the range Allures Yachting while retaining its DNA: comfort, performance, safety and manoeuvrability in a reduced crew.

THE MOST MAJESTIC OF ALL To discover the vastness of the world.

New flagship of the range, the 51.9 Allures innovates with its full-beam aft owner’s cabin for unmatched comfort. This new model disrupts the codes of the yard also outside with its large cockpit of 6 meters long with sunbath and swim platform for exclusive comfort and a navigation space that can be protected by a hard top to navigate in any security.

This 3rd generation sailboat, following on her big brothers, the Allures 51 and Allures 52, incorporates 15 years of studies by the shipyard and feedback from the owners. She combines comfort, performance, safety and manoeuvrability for a short-handed crew.

What could be better than a magnificent boat which is as functional as she is comfortable, to set off on a blue water cruise to discover the world. The Allures 51.9 is part of the very selective category of prestigious sailing yachts. An ambitious and innovative project that was made possible thanks to the combination of the know-how of our craftsmen, talented designers and of course experienced sailors who share with us their valuable feedback. You dreamed of a sailing boat with unique elegance and performance, a sailing boat whose sharp design would disappear behind its simplicity of use, a sailing boat on which you could live fully in total freedom?

Key elements of the specifications:

Sailing Centreboard for freedom Twin rudders for stability and control Large ergonomic cockpit with sunbathing area

Comfort Forward and side windows provide exceptional light and 270° visibility High-end interior design for an enjoyable life on board at anchor and a functional one at sea Large storage capacity for self-sufficiency Large full-beam aft owner’s cabin

Safety Aluminium hull for unsurpassed impact resistance Watertight forward bulkhead in aluminium

Technology Composite deck for its ergonomics, lightness, insulating properties Wide, load-carrying hull for its form stability and performance Aluminium rear arch to optimise peripherals: antennas, solar panels, dinghy Modern rigging for performance and ease of use

Exterior design With the Allures 51.9, designers were given the task of bringing Allures Yachting into the prestigious world of the ocean cruising yacht. If all the functions usually required are found on such a boat in general, and more particularly on an Allures of course, then an increase in length makes it possible to even offer more.

More performance at sea thanks to an increased waterline length. More comfort thanks to a large cockpit and easy access to the side-decks, a large sunbathing area and a retractable bathing platform on the sugar scoop. More protection with an optional rigid bimini to secure the watchkeeper in all condition. And more ergonomics with station grouping all the manoeuvres necessary for sailing with a reduced crew, in particular thanks to the positioning of the winches near the helmsman.

Interior architecture On board the Allures 51.9, the sea-man like nature and the practicality of the fittings compete with the purity of the lines and elegance of contemporary design furniture, initiated by Isabelle Racoupeau. Ergonomics of the different functions, fluidity of movement, and multiple living areas offer a place for everyone, and for every moment :

Large full-width owner’s cabin aft Spacious, comfortable and welcoming saloon communicating directly with the chart table Friendly U-shaped galley open to the saloon, designed for cooking while under way Engine room dedicated to technical and engine access And a saloon modulating ‘lounge’ with a wide bench and a chart table meridian. Living on board will be your privilege, because the Allures 51.9 is irrefutably one of the most prestigious yachts. The very high quality of workmanship is enhanced by the extremely generous entry of external light during the day. At night, the lighting is warm to transform your Allures into a protective cocoon. Every day on board is a renewed pleasure, an invitation to continue the journey…

All sail handling manoeuvres led back to the cockpit

Specifications

Features & accommodations, exterior design.

With the Allures 51.9, designers were given the task of bringing Allures Yachting into the prestigious world of the ocean cruising yacht. If all the functions usually required are found on such a boat in general, and more particularly on an Allures of course, then an increase in length makes it possible to even offer more.

More performance at sea thanks to an increased waterline length. More comfort thantks to a large cockpit and easy access to the side-decks, a large sunbathing area and a retractable bathing platform on the sugarscoop. More protection with an optional rigid bimini to secure the watchkeeper in all condition. And more hergonomics with station grouping all the manoeuvres necessary for sailing with a reduced crew, in particular thanks to the positioning of the winches near the helmsman.

Interior architecture

On board the Allures 51.9, the seamanlike nature and the practicality of the fittings compete with the purity of the lines and elegance of contemporary design furniture, initiated by Isabelle Racoupeau. Ergonomics of the different functions, fluidity of movement, and multiple living areas offer a place for everyone, and for every moment :

• Large full-width owner’s cabin aft
• Spacious, comfortable and welcoming saloon communicating directly with the chart table
• Friendly U-shaped galley open to the saloon, designed for cooking while under way
• Engine room dedicated to technical and engine access
• And a saloon modulating ‘lounge’ with a wide bench and a chart table meridian.

Living on board will be your privilege, because the Allures 51.9 is irrefutably one of the most prestigious yachts. The very high quality of workmanship is enhanced by the extremely generous entry of external light during the day. At night, the lighting is warm to transform your Allures into a protective cocoon. Every day on board is a renewed pleasure, an invitation to continue the journey…

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Meet the all-new Allures 51.9

• January 12th, 2021

I do have a very special relationship to Allures boats, I must confess. First of all, these are aluminium yachts (in Allure´s case that´s valid at least for the hull) which I fancy as being the “real” material of choice when it comes to serious sailing offshore to remote areas, secondly, since my visit to the yard in Cherbourg where I saw the efforts and quality that goes into making one of these, I consider those boats being “ships” rather than “boats”. Who would disagree in view of such a rugged, solid and well-made hull?

It was during the last months of the year 2019, when I persued a bigger project which would have potentially made me able to start such “serious” sailing for a couple of years – the advent of Covid-19 tragically killed off all our hopes and wishes for this project by the way. But just before the pandemic hit with full force, during our “shopping tour” in France to look for a boat, in the end, it was an Allures 44 that captured my imagination and made it to the top of the “wanted”-list . I would say, travelling in an Allures on the long haul is – for many reasons – something worth striving for.

Two years ago the yard announced a new flagship. Their Racaupeau-designed 45.9 is a more than worthy successor to the famous Allures 44 (which is yearned for so much) and if I´d had the budget she most certainly would be the boat I´d seriously consider buying. The entry-level 40.9 is more than sufficient for a couple or a small family for the “big circle” and is also an absolute fantastic yacht. But here she comes: The all-new flagship, the queen: Allures 51.9. I am very happy that I am exclusively provided with these fantastic pictures from the building process of that boat and I hope you enjoy watching the first 51.9 come to life.

This brand-new Allures 51.9 marks the current pinnacle of the yard´s offer and I´ve had the pleasure to gain some more and detailed insight to the build of their first ship by talking to Cyrille Corlay who is in charge of Marketing and Sales at Grand Large Yachting, the yard which bundles the brands Garcia and Allures.

Talking to Cyrille Corlay of Grand Large Yachting

Lars Reisberg | NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “ Tell me a bit about yourself: Your position in Allures, your (sailing) background, a short introduction to you as a person.”

Cyrille Corlay: “Hi there Lars. Good to have you “back” – although it´s just virtual. Well, I began my career in the boating industry as a trainee at a Beneteau dealer: This gave me an apprenticeship of the trade and customer contact but also the sense of service. I also was Director of the Harbour of Cherbourg, Port Chantereyne, for 5 years. And I’ve joined Grand Large Yachting as a sales manager for Allures Yachting and Garcia Yachts three years ago. On a personal basis, I usually cruise in the Mediterranean Sea every summer with family. I also crossed the Atlantic and regularly practice regatta in Open 750 with 3 co-owners.”

Lars Reisberg: “So you are definitely an insider and keen sailor. Cyrille Corlay, we have talked about this very same time one year ago on the new flagship of Allures when I wrote my article “Boats to look forward to” in anticipation of BOOT Duesseldorf 2020 – first of all, how is Allures yard doing in the Covid-19 craze?”

Cyrille Corlay: “Well, speaking of special times: Like everyone else, we were stunned in March 2020 and of course worried about the consequences of this pandemic crisis. But against all expectations, we have lived one positive effect of the Covid-19 – there has to be one, right? – and confinements: These conditions have permitted potential customers to find time they could allow to consider their choices, to think and rethink their life plan and their projects. Some of them wanted to go “green”, to revisit their professional plans, others wanted to acknowledge the fact that their, maybe beforehand considered as being “distant” boat trip project had to become a reality. And they acknowledged this by buying a boat. That of course means that, from now, we at Allures have really suffered a very minimal effect of the Covid-19 crisis. That means minimal supply chain issues. Instead we´ve seen huge involvement of our workers an and incredible interest shown by our customers. Just consider that, due to Covid-19 crisis, some of them have bought a new boat despite they never come to visit us at the yard! That means they made their decision, in a hardly competitive sector, just by navigating on the web, tagging Instagram posts, reading reviews and watching videos! That absolutely s incredible, and it helps us learning much in terms of digital presence and customer experience.”

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “Will Grand Large Yachting with its brands attend BOOT Duesseldorf on its new date in late April? As far as I collect opinions, the business is not happy with that new date as it falls exactly in the high-season of delivery. How is your company thinking about that new date?”

Cyrille Corlay: “Well, the final decision of coming to Duesseldorf in April is not taken yet at the Group’s scale. What I can say is: If we go there with Allures, we probably won’t be able to show a boat, for the exact reason you mention: As we always display owner’s boats at shows, sending a boat to Germany makes it unavailable for sailing to her owners for one month at least.”

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “So, when Allures attends the show, which boat are we going to see?”

Cyrille Corlay: “None, I am afraid. Because, the boat we are actually awaiting the most at the yard is exactly this very Allures 51.9. Just because that she will be the new flagship of Allures Yachting. If conditions were more favorable, that would of course be the model we would show on boot trade fair. In the meantime, and as many yards do, we’ll organize some dedicated low dimension customers events at the yard, and will propose some sea trials on board the 51.9 in Cherbourg during Spring 2021.”

On the new Allures flagship 51.9

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “Back to the flagship: How is general work on the Allures 51.9 going on?”

Cyrille Corlay: “Everyone as an individual is highly committed on the 51.9 project and every department of the yard is actively working on the achievement that this model represents. You have noticed how far Allures sailboats are engineered with precise industrial processes, but this comes with a strong human touch. This begins at the design office, if we consider that Allures boats are fully designed with advanced 3D-programmes. That means hundreds hours of computing, driven by our talented design teams. This way, we can say Allures prototypes are 3D-files, if you will. The building by itself is closely committed with this and everything is running in sort that the delivery of hull #1 will take place at the end of March this year – scheduled fully on time. In the same time the metal work of hull #2 is actually in progress and this unit will be delivered at the end of May. The building of boat #3 is starting very soon and everyone at the yard is highly committed to this boat project.”

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “Can you specify some top-points most noticeable about the new 51.9 in terms of uniqueness or special things, like hull construction, details of the boat´s properties, specialties in layout or equipment?”

Cyrille Corlay: “As all Allures models and as its predecessors in the 50 feet range, Allures 51.9 was first of all conceived as a true blue water sailing boat. That is a very strong aluminum hull, and a centerboard to enjoy shallow places as lagoons and to permit a very well sheltered anchorage. The Allures 51.9 was thought and made differently to previous Allures 51 and 52 models in the sense that it is indeed made for people demanding more than just an excellent blue water cruising boat. This is right both for interior and exterior design.”

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “… you have some details on this?”

Cyrille Corlay: “Let me explain: For example, in terms of interior design, you´ll notice the full-beam aft owner’s cabin, made to deliver unmatched comfort. We offer a large saloon communicating directly with the chart table, a U-shaped galley open to the saloon, or even its dedicated and isolated engine room. Let’s also mention its high standard interior design with dedicated colors patterns, materials, woods, fittings and so on. This new model also disrupts the codes of the yard by its outside design, with its large, 6 meters long cockpit. This includes a dedicated sunbathing area and a big swimming platform. Its cockpit saloon offers comfort to large crews in all circumstances, and the navigation space in this cockpit can be protected by a hard top, in order to navigate in fully secure conditions. All this makes the Allures 51.9 a very welcoming and performant blue water cruising unit, with of course a large capacity and autonomy, that make it usable for long term sailing projects, with reduced crews as well as large ones.”

“Allures-sailors have always been unique and very special people.”

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “How would you generalize the owners – who is buying a 51.9 and what are these people wanting to do with their boats?”

Cyrille Corlay: “Speaking of the new 51.9 I can say that we to this date have actually sold three units to owners in three different countries and professional contexts. So it’s not that easy to generalize here. Let me put it this way: The first common point between these owners is their attempt for owning a high-end boat with a high level of requirement regarding criteria such as performance, design, comfort and capacity. All of these owners mentioned they would run a really intense sailing program with their 51.9, of course including a circumnavigation . As an example, the French owner of Allures 51.9 #1 will take place in our Grand Large Yachting World Odyssey, the forthcoming group’s round the world rally, starting in September 2021. And he intends to take the Southern route via the Magellan Strait and Patagonia. A demanding cruising program for sure!”

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “Are Allures-owners stepping up the ladder, meaning, going for bigger units after some time? Maybe, past 45.9-owners going a notch up in the 51.9?”

Cyrille Corlay: “Yes, of course. This happens sometimes, but not yet for this model. We had recently the example of an Allures 45.9 owner who was not able to have and sail his boat in Europe because of the current situation woth Covid 19 . He consulted us with the project of ordering the same boat and have it delivered as new, instead of bringing back the previous one he had owned for a few years, shipped from New Zealand on a cargo! He finally opted for this last solution, but the simple fact he had this idea shows how strong he feels confident in Allures Yachting brand, for sure.”

Plans of the Grand Large Group with the Allures brand

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “What are the plans with the prototype of the 51.9? When will we get to see the first pictures of the boat in the water and under full sails?”

Cyrille Corlay: “Well, you see, building quality boats is a matter of details. This is why I am not able to tell how many hours are still necessary before we can launch the Allures 51.9 boat #1. However, this very boat will be splashed at the end of March and from there on we will wait for the first good weather window to take the best pictures of her under full sails.”

NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “After launching the 51.9 Allures has now a completely renewed fleet from 40 to 50 feet: What can we expect from Allures in the coming years? Any new models, sizes – or any trends you follow, like hybrid engines, e-mobility, power management et cetera?”

Cyrille Corlay: “We are thinking of new models and new developments or call it options for existing models for sure. Let’s say, we will provide dedicated news when these points are mature enough to be shared. In the meantime, we of course consider innovation a large way and this includes many aspects such as the active part taken by Allures to a Grand Large Yachting Group project that is dedicated to provide more sustainable boating. This covers different topics such as, for example, mastering life-cycle analysis for our models, initiating actions to reduce the carbon footprint of our boats or integrate bio-materials in building processes. A huge and complex challenge we have to answer to! Hybrid engines are also a strong point of interest for which we have the chance to have the direct feedback of sister brands as Garcia Yachts or Outremer, so we closely follow these trends and evolutions.”

Thanks so much, Cyrille Corlay  – all the best for the prototype and I am looking forward to seeing her in the water soon.

All pictures with kind permission by Allures Yachts/Grand Large Yachting

You might as well be interested in reading these related articles:

A trip to France: Why I fell in love with Allures

Aluminium marvel in the making: Berckemeyer BM 49, parts 1 and 2

Another masterpiece of aluminium: The Gulliver 57

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Aluminum yacht Allures 51.9

The Allures 51.9 is an exceptional aluminum sailboat offering an unforgettable experience at sea and at anchor. This new model fully retains the Allures Yachting DNA of comfort, performance, safety, maneuverability, and still the ability to handle a yacht of this size with a small crew.

The new flagship introduces innovative solutions in the full-width aft owner's cabin for unrivaled comfort, and outside, with its large cockpit 6 meters long, with a bathing platform for exceptional comfort and navigation space that can be protected by a hardtop for safety in all conditions ... The performance is ensured by the increased length of the waterline. And even more ergonomics with a new helm station that integrates all the maneuvers required for sailing with a small crew, thanks in particular to the location of the winches near the helmsman. Allures 51.9 is part of a highly selective luxury sailing yacht category. Spacious saloon with quality finishes, comfortable chart table, U-shaped galley, very comfortable technical room with easy access to all systems. Centerboard, double rudder blade, 270 ° visibility from the cabin, large autonomy, shockproof hull, waterproof aluminum front bulkhead, composite deck, aluminum arch at the stern that carries antennas, solar panels, dinghy, and state-of-the-art rigging. An ambitious and innovative project, made a reality by combining the know-how of the best yacht builders, talented designers and experienced yachtsmen who share their valuable feedback with the shipyard. What could be better than a magnificent boat, which is maximally functional and conveniently adapted for a long journey and life on board in complete freedom, for those lucky ones who are ready to discover this wonderful world.

LIFE WITH A SAIL

* More detailed information can be obtained by ordering the catalog

Other yachts

News and articles

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The Naval Group has taken 3D printing a step further for the marine world by using it to produce a large propeller. An innovation that can come to the maritime and pleasure craft industries

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Multihulls World and its French version Multicoques Mag, in cooperation with the International Multihull Show, are organizing the second vote for the best multihull yacht of the year!

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• Sailboat Guide

Allures 39.9

Allures 39.9 is a 41 ′ 6 ″ / 12.7 m monohull sailboat designed by Berret-Racoupeau and built by Allures Yachting starting in 2013.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

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