Alpa A27 Information, Review, Specs

The Alpa A27, identified as Sparkman & Stephens design #2241, began production in 1975. Alpa Yachts, founded by Danilo Cattadori in 1956, was at the forefront of the "true revolution" in nautical engineering by embracing fiberglass as a primary construction material from its earliest days. During the mid-1970s, when the A27 was conceived, Alpa had already established a strong reputation for high-quality fiberglass vessels, benefiting from collaborations with influential naval architects like Olin Stephens himself. The design ethos behind the A27, consistent with Sparkman & Stephens' broader portfolio, likely aimed for a well-balanced hull that offered respectable performance without sacrificing stability or interior volume for its size. The A27's construction in solid fiberglass hull and deck material aligns with Alpa's commitment to robust and durable yacht building.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 27 feet and a waterline length of 23 feet, the Alpa A27 is designed to offer a balanced sailing experience. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.7 suggests a boat with moderate performance capabilities, indicating it can move respectably in various wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in strong breezes. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.355 points to a reasonable degree of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a good amount of wind and providing a stable platform for cruising. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 237 categorizes the A27 as a moderately heavy cruiser, implying a comfortable motion in a seaway, though perhaps not a blistering turn of speed. The boat features a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, a common configuration for cruisers of its era, typically contributing to good maneuverability and responsiveness.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Alpa A27 are not widely documented in available general reviews, its designation as a "cabin cruiser" implies a functional interior suitable for overnight stays. Given its size, a typical layout for a vessel of this type from the mid-1970s would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a compact galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Alpa yachts generally earned a reputation for quality construction, suggesting a robust interior finish, likely featuring a combination of fiberglass liners and traditional wood trim, common for the period. Practical considerations such as storage for provisions and gear, and adequate ventilation, would have been part of the design focus for a boat intended for cruising.