Singoalla 34 (Albin) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Albin Singoalla 34 can be traced to Albin Marine's ambition to expand upon the popularity of their iconic Vega 27, offering a larger vessel for cruising enthusiasts. Production commenced in 1970, with construction handled by Albin Marine, a company known for its transition from marine engine manufacturing to a prominent builder of durable fiberglass sailboats. Per Brohäll, a naval architect credited with several of Albin's most successful models including the Vega, lent his expertise to the Singoalla 34's design.

Albin Marine's design philosophy during this era emphasized seaworthiness, durability, and practical design, elements evident in the Singoalla 34's solid fiberglass hull and deck construction. Despite these foundational strengths, the model's production ceased relatively quickly, around 1973, due to weak sales. This brief production period means there were no significant documented variations or "Mk" versions, though individual owners have undertaken modifications such as altering the rudder shaft. The vessel features a fin keel, a common choice for performance and maneuverability in its class.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Albin Singoalla 34 is characterized by a design that blends cruising comfort with respectable sailing dynamics. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.6 suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, allowing the boat to maintain momentum when many heavier cruisers might struggle. Coupled with a Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.425, the Singoalla 34 exhibits a commendable level of initial stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up to a good breeze and offer a comfortable motion offshore.

With a Displacement to Length ratio of about 193, the Singoalla 34 falls into the category of a moderately light cruiser for its size, contributing to its "good performer" reputation. This, combined with a theoretical hull speed of approximately 7.01 knots, indicates a vessel capable of efficient passage making. Described as a "capable offshore cruiser with moderate draft," owners have generally found the Singoalla 34 to be a stable and stiff boat. While generally a good performer, some anecdotal owner comments suggest it may not possess the same light-air nimbleness as its smaller predecessor, the Vega. Its fin keel design typically provides good upwind performance, though some owners have noted that maneuvering in confined harbors can be challenging. The vessel features a masthead sloop rig, providing a balanced and powerful sail plan.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Albin Singoalla 34 is generally described as comfortable and spacious for a boat of its size, offering ample living space within its nearly 34-foot length and over 10-foot beam. The layout typically provides two cabins and sleeping accommodations for four individuals. Online descriptions and sales listings often highlight a "classic, warm" interior aesthetic, reflecting the design trends of the early 1970s, likely featuring traditional wood finishes and practical, durable materials.

While specific layout diagrams are not widely available, the general arrangement typically includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a galley, and a head compartment. Storage is usually generous for a boat of its era, catering to the needs of cruisers. Features such as diesel cabin heating, chartplotters, solar panels, and inverters are commonly found in examples on the used market, though these are typically aftermarket additions by owners enhancing the boat's cruising capabilities. A water tank capacity of around 150 liters has been noted in some configurations. Owners generally appreciate the generous interior volume and wide decks, which contribute to comfort both at anchor and under sail.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Albin Singoalla 34 often commend the vessel for its solid construction and the overall build quality characteristic of Albin Marine. While direct, widespread owner reviews are less common due to the boat's limited production run, existing feedback highlights its comfort and spaciousness for a 34-footer, with wide decks adding to the feeling of security and ease of movement. Owners appreciate that the boat, despite its age, offers good value, particularly if one embraces its traditional aesthetics.

Common modifications mentioned by owners include upgrading the auxiliary engine, with many boats now featuring more modern diesel engines such as a 28hp Vetus. Rigging upgrades, like newer running rigging and furling systems, are also frequently undertaken to enhance usability. While the original designs are considered dated by modern standards, the robust underlying structure makes the Singoalla 34 a viable candidate for refitting and customization, allowing owners to tailor the classic platform to contemporary cruising needs.