Alden 50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Alden 50, designated as Alden design #1180x, was part of a series that also included the Alden 52 and 54, and notably, it was the first boat planned in this series and the last to be built. Production of the Alden 50 took place between 1996 and 1998, with only three hulls constructed, marking it as a relatively rare yacht. During this era, Alden Yachts maintained its foundational design philosophy, which "always hammered home" ocean-going prowess. The firm's ethos, established by John G. Alden, focused on creating vessels that were not only comfortable and seakindly but also notably quick and capable of embarking on long offshore voyages without causing undue anxiety for those ashore. The Alden 50's design reflects this commitment, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and a practical masthead sloop rig. She incorporates a stub keel with a centerboard, offering a variable draft that enhances both performance and access to shallower anchorages, complemented by a skeg-hung rudder for robust steering control.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 38,000 pounds and a waterline length of 37.08 feet, the Alden 50 exhibits the characteristics of a heavy displacement offshore cruising boat. Her displacement to length ratio of approximately 332.5 underscores her heavy-duty build, suggesting a powerful and stable motion through the water, particularly favored for long-distance cruising in varied sea states. The sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at around 15.00, indicates that while not a light-air flyer, she is a moderately powered vessel designed for steady progress rather than competitive racing, capable of handling stronger winds with grace. Furthermore, a ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 43% highlights her significant stability, allowing her to stand up to a considerable amount of wind, contributing to a comfortable and secure ride offshore. These design ratios collectively suggest the Alden 50 prioritizes stability and seaworthiness, making her a formidable and forgiving platform for extended passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details for the Alden 50 (1996-1998 production) can vary due to their semi-custom nature, Alden Yachts generally maintained high standards of interior craftsmanship. The interiors typically feature well-executed joinery and robust materials, consistent with Alden's reputation for quality construction and a focus on bluewater capabilities. Given her generous beam of 13.5 feet, the Alden 50 would offer a spacious interior, allowing for comfortable living spaces, ample storage, and good ventilation essential for extended cruising. These vessels often feature traditional layouts designed for liveaboard comfort, including well-appointed galleys, comfortable salons, and private sleeping cabins, all crafted to withstand the rigors of offshore sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Alden-designed yachts frequently laud their vessels for classic lines, robust construction, and proven offshore capabilities. The Alden 50, in particular, is admired by a dedicated community for its elegance, robustness, and seaworthy nature. While specific common issues for this particular production run (1996-1998) are not widely documented, the general sentiment among Alden owners is one of appreciation for the timeless design and the reliable, comfortable motion these boats provide in a seaway. Owners often highlight the Alden 50's suitability for long-distance cruising, making it an ideal choice for families or groups embarking on extended voyages.