Cigale 16 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Alubat Cigale 16, with its production commencing in 2017, builds upon a legacy of performance-oriented designs within Alubat's "Cigale" range. While earlier iterations of the Cigale series, such as the Cigale 15 QR, were designed by Finot-Conq, the Cigale 16 saw a significant update by naval architect Marc Lombard around 2010, who was tasked with redesigning the series. Lombard's philosophy for the Cigale 16 involved stretching the hull, adding twin rudders, and streamlining the deck to enhance its performance and ergonomic handling.

Alubat, established in 1973, has a long-standing reputation for exclusively building boats from aluminum, a material chosen for its strength, durability, and customization potential. The Cigale range specifically targets an analysis that aluminum boats beyond 13/14 meters can achieve lighter displacements than their fiberglass counterparts, contributing to their performance goals. This commitment to robust, all-aluminum construction, including both hull and deck, ensures the Cigale 16 is built to withstand demanding blue-water cruising conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cigale 16 is engineered for sheer sailing ecstasy, blending comfort with power. Her design ratios underscore her performance-oriented nature: with a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 28.31, she boasts excellent light-air performance, indicating an eagerness to move even in lighter breezes. Her Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) ratio of around 79.76 firmly categorizes her as an Ultra-Light Displacement Boat (ULDB), signifying a design optimized for speed and efficiency through the water. This low ratio, combined with a length overall of just over 54 feet and a waterline length of 52.17 feet, translates to a boat that offers performance competitive with larger vessels and a hull speed of 9.68 knots.

The Ballast to Displacement ratio, at approximately 28.7%, suggests a lighter build than some heavy cruisers, focusing on dynamic performance rather than relying solely on high ballast for stiffness. However, the twin rudders, a feature incorporated in the Lombard redesign, enhance control and responsiveness, contributing to the boat's excellent handling characteristics in various sea states. Owners and reviewers often describe the Cigale 16 as a vessel that delivers superior sailing performance, specifically designed to support performance cruising and long passages with an ergonomic handling experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Alubat Cigale 16 is characterized by a unique and very different approach to layout and design, aiming to offer a compelling mix of comfort and power. While specific details can vary significantly due to Alubat's commitment to high customization, owners frequently tailor their yachts to specific wishes, allowing for unique internal layouts and finishes.

Generally, the Cigale 16's interior is purpose-designed for performance cruising and long passages. Reviews suggest a spacious "magic salon" area, indicative of an open-plan living space that maximizes communal comfort. Typical arrangements often include a forward cabin, a well-appointed head, a generous salon, and a functional galley, alongside quarter berths, all finished with attention to the durable and customizable nature of aluminum construction. The high degree of customization means that materials and finishes, while built to Alubat's robust standards, can reflect individual owner preferences, ranging from extensive wood trim to more contemporary fiberglass surfaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alubat Cigale 16 consistently praise its superior sailing performance and unique interior layout, often highlighting the blend of comfort and power it offers. The ability to extensively customize the yacht, from internal layouts to specific equipment choices, is highly valued, with owners making practical modifications such as innovative solutions for line storage. The robust, all-aluminum construction is a frequently mentioned strength, reinforcing confidence in the boat's offshore capabilities and durability. While specific common weaknesses are not widely reported, the detailed customization means that individual boats can reflect a broad range of owner choices, influencing their specific characteristics and maintenance profiles. The strong sense of community among Alubat owners, particularly through groups like the "Ovni Club," further underscores the satisfaction and shared knowledge found among those who choose these unique vessels.