Alpa 9.50 Information, Review, Specs

The Alpa 9.50 began production in 1970 and continued to be built until 1978. Alpa Yachts, under the guidance of Danilo Cattadori, was a trailblazer in Europe, being among the very first shipyards to adopt fiberglass as a primary material for boat construction, marking a "true revolution" in nautical engineering. This commitment to innovative materials was coupled with a focus on robust construction and collaboration with respected naval architects of the era.

While sometimes erroneously attributed to Sparkman & Stephens, the Alpa 9.50 was an in-house design by Danilo Cattadori himself. His philosophy for the 9.50 involved reworking the lines of the larger Alpa 12.70 into a smaller, more accessible boat, combining excellent craftsmanship with a well-proportioned, classic design intended for practical use. Approximately 200 units of the Alpa 9.50 were built during its production run, a testament to its popularity and enduring appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alpa 9.50 is characterized by its balanced design, offering a combination of speed and stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 13.63, the Alpa 9.50 leans towards being a more conservative performer, suggesting it is not a dedicated light-air racer but rather a steady and manageable boat in a variety of wind conditions. Its ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.37 indicates good initial stability, allowing it to stand up to a breeze effectively. The displacement to length ratio of 318.46 places it in the heavier, more traditional cruiser category, underscoring its solid build and comfortable motion.

Owners frequently praise the Alpa 9.50 for being both "seaworthy and fast," with some noting its remarkable ability to "sail itself," a quality often elusive in modern designs. This suggests a well-balanced hull and rudder, providing a stable and predictable platform under sail. Its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder contribute to its directional stability and precise steering, making it a reliable vessel for coastal cruising and offshore passages alike. The maximum draft of 6.1 feet is typical for a performance-oriented cruiser of its size, allowing for good upwind ability.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 31 feet, the Alpa 9.50 offers a surprisingly functional and "super classic, well proportioned" interior layout. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design generally provides comfortable living spaces for a boat of its era. The interior typically features a traditional five-berth arrangement, maximizing sleeping capacity.

Based on available information and owner accounts, the interior arrangement usually includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. The finish quality is generally described as well-built, with handcrafted interior elements contributing to a warm and classic ambiance. Storage is usually adequate for extended cruising, and ventilation is typically achieved through deck hatches and portlights. The thoughtful design ensures that the Alpa 9.50 provides a comfortable and practical living space for its size, suitable for cruising families or couples.

Owner's Perspectives

The Alpa 9.50 enjoys a dedicated following among classic boat enthusiasts, with many units built in the 1970s still actively sailing today. Owners consistently highlight the boat's "extremely well built" construction and inherent seaworthiness as primary strengths. Its robust fiberglass hull and classic design contribute to a sense of security and reliability on the water.

The self-steering characteristic is a frequently lauded attribute, indicating a boat that is well-behaved and easy to manage, reducing fatigue on longer passages. The Alpa 9.50 is generally considered a low-maintenance boat given its age, with owners often celebrating its enduring quality. While specific common problems are not widely reported, like any vessel of its vintage, potential owners should consider the condition of original systems and fittings. The strong community of Alpa owners further underscores the satisfaction and pride associated with these Italian-built classics.