Alpa 8.25 Information, Review, Specs

The Alpa 8.25 entered production in 1967 and was built until 1983. Its creation in 1969 marked a significant collaboration between Alpa Yachts and the legendary American design firm Sparkman & Stephens. Alpa Yachts, founded by Danilo Cattadori in 1956, was at the forefront of embracing fiberglass as a primary material for boat construction in Europe, a move that represented a "true revolution" in nautical engineering. Their ethos revolved around high-quality fiberglass construction and partnering with respected naval architects like S&S to ensure contemporary and seaworthy designs. The Alpa 8.25, therefore, benefited from S&S's reputation for designing yachts that balanced performance with cruising comfort, a hallmark of both the designer and the builder's philosophy during that era. There is no information in the search results to suggest significant variations during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alpa 8.25 is characterized by its substantial displacement and a generous sail plan. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.8, she is well-suited for light-air performance, suggesting that she can move effectively even in lighter breezes. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 277.4 places her in the moderate to heavy displacement category for a boat of her size, contributing to a comfortable, sea-kindly motion in various conditions. This heavier displacement often translates to a more stable platform, making her a reassuring vessel for cruising. The boat is equipped with a fin keel, which is known to provide splendid maneuverability, enhancing her handling characteristics. While specific ballast figures are not consistently available, her design as a cruising sloop indicates a focus on stability and ease of handling.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her compact size with a length overall of just over 27 feet, the Alpa 8.25 offers a functional interior layout designed for cruising comfort. The boat is typically equipped with one cabin and provides up to four berths, making it suitable for a small family or a couple with occasional guests. The interior includes a galley for food preparation and a dedicated toilet facility, enhancing its self-sufficiency for extended trips. The freshwater capacity is reported to be around 13 US gallons (50 liters). While details on maximum headroom are not specified, the overall design suggests a focus on maximizing usable space within its dimensions, typical of Italian cruisers of its era, often featuring practical layouts and durable, yet appealing, finishes.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Alpa yachts often form passionate communities dedicated to preserving and celebrating these Italian-built fiberglass pioneers, as evidenced by groups like "Alpa Historical Club" and "Alpa Style". While specific consolidated owner reviews highlighting common strengths or weaknesses for the Alpa 8.25 are not extensively detailed in readily available search results, the general reputation of Alpa Yachts points to well-built boats with innovative fiberglass construction for their time. Owners are likely to appreciate the boat's solid construction and its comfortable motion offshore, consistent with its design as a compact cruiser. Discussions in online forums indicate an active interest in the model, suggesting a loyal following among those who value classic Italian sailboat craftsmanship.