Alo 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Alo 28 marks the foundational chapter for Alo Yachts, being the very first model designed by Alf Josef Ortang himself and entering production in 1972. Ortang's vision was to create a robust and capable sailboat, an ethos deeply embedded in the Norwegian builder's identity. The initial models, featuring a masthead rig and a fin keel made of iron, began deliveries around 1974. This period saw Alo Yachts establish a reputation for producing practical sailboats, especially those suited for the often-challenging Scandinavian waters, a philosophy evident in the Alo 28's solid fiberglass construction. Over its approximate ten-year production run, the Alo 28 maintained its core design, appealing to sailors seeking a reliable and straightforward cruising yacht.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alo 28's design ratios paint a clear picture of its intended performance characteristics as a stable and capable cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.13, the Alo 28 suggests a design prioritizing robust construction and comfortable motion over light-air speed. Its impressive Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.446 indicates exceptional stiffness and stability, with its righting moment being higher than 76% of similar sailboat designs. This robust stability makes the Alo 28 well-suited to standing up to heavier winds and ensuring a secure ride. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 307.8 categorizes it as a heavy displacement vessel, characteristic of traditional cruisers that emphasize seakindliness and comfort in various sea states. The Alo 28 is generally considered very stable, stiff, and possesses excellent righting capability, making it best suited as a coastal cruiser. While some assessments suggest a "significantly more speedy hull design" for its class, its overall characteristics point to a boat built for reliable passage-making rather than outright racing performance, being faster than 24% of similar sailboat designs.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Alo 28 are not extensively documented in available public information, its role as a coastal cruiser by a builder focused on practicality suggests a functional and well-considered arrangement typical of 28-foot sailboats from the 1970s. Given Alf Ortang's aim for the Alo 28 to offer "a little more of everything," it is reasonable to infer that the interior prioritized usable space, storage, and a comfortable, if not luxurious, living environment for its size. Expected features for a vessel of this type and era would likely include a V-berth forward, a compact head, a salon area with settees that may convert to berths, and a basic galley. The robust fiberglass construction of the hull would typically extend to the interior, providing a durable and easily maintained finish. Owners often appreciate the solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway, indicating a focus on livability and seaworthiness below deck.