Alden 52 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Alden 52 is rooted in Alden Yachts' long-standing tradition of crafting vessels that are not only comfortable and seakindly but also notably quick, enabling owners to embark on ambitious offshore passages with confidence. John G. Alden, the visionary behind the firm, established his design office in 1909, and by the late 1980s, his philosophy of deeply understanding an owner's needs and translating them into a refined design was evident in models like the 52.

Launched in 1988, the Alden 52 showcased the builder's commitment to robust construction and a timeless aesthetic, characteristics for which Alden Yachts was consistently praised throughout its nearly century-long operation. The model offered significant versatility in its design, available with either a centerboard or a fixed keel, with the latter featuring a deeper draft of 8.0 feet (2.44m). Owners also had the choice of different cockpit configurations, including both center and aft cockpits, and could opt for either a traditional or reverse transom, reflecting the semi-custom nature often found in Alden designs. Furthermore, while primarily a cutter rig, some Alden 52s were built as ketch rigs, providing options for sail plan management. These variations allowed for a degree of personalization, ensuring each Alden 52 could be tailored to specific cruising preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alden 52's design translates directly into impressive sailing characteristics. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement Ratio of approximately 18.11, the yacht is well-equipped for good performance in lighter air conditions, suggesting it can move efficiently even when winds are modest. Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio of around 41.79% speaks to a high degree of stiffness and stability, enabling the Alden 52 to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length Ratio, calculated at approximately 272.03, places the Alden 52 firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser rather than a light, pure racer.

This substantial displacement, combined with its deep keel (in the fixed keel version), contributes to excellent upwind performance and overall stability, enhancing the yacht's seakeeping ability. Owners consistently describe the Alden 52 as a robust and capable offshore vessel, characteristics that are hallmarks of Alden designs and are facilitated by its generous sail plan.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom for the Alden 52 is not consistently noted in standard specifications, the yacht is widely recognized for its spacious accommodations, a hallmark of its luxury yacht designation. Alden Yachts were celebrated for their high-quality interior woodwork and meticulous finish, setting industry standards. The Alden 52 was offered with a variety of interior arrangements, allowing owners to customize the layout to suit their individual needs and preferences. Typically, one would expect a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and multiple cabins, including a V-berth forward, and often quarter berths, designed to maximize comfort and utility during extended cruises. The emphasis on robust construction and attention to detail would extend to the interior, ensuring durable materials and thoughtful design throughout.