Cigale 18 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Alubat Cigale 18, in its current form, began production in 2018, building upon a legacy of performance-oriented designs within the Cigale range. While earlier iterations of the Cigale 18, such as those from 2008, were designed by Groupe Finot, the 2018 model showcases the refined vision of Marc Lombard. Alubat, established in 1973, has always specialized in crafting robust aluminum boats, and the Cigale line exemplifies their commitment to leveraging this material for both strength and speed. The builder's ethos, particularly for the Cigale range, is rooted in racing boat principles, aiming to deliver a faster, more exhilarating sailing experience compared to their more traditional Ovni cruisers. The choice of aluminum allows for highly detailed and strong construction, crucial for achieving the performance goals of the Cigale series.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alubat Cigale 18 is engineered for exceptional sailing performance, a fact clearly reflected in its design ratios. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 24.79, she is poised to perform exceptionally well in light air, easily gathering speed and maintaining momentum. This high ratio is characteristic of a boat designed for speed and responsiveness. The displacement to length ratio of around 81.8 categorizes the Cigale 18 firmly as an ultra-light displacement vessel. This low number indicates a design focused on minimizing wetted surface and maximizing speed through efficient hull form, true to the Cigale range's ULDB philosophy.

Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.32, suggests a moderate level of initial stability. While not as high as some heavy displacement cruisers, this is typical for a performance-oriented design, where the deep fin keel contributes significantly to stability and powerful windward ability. The twin rudders are designed to maintain steering control at high speeds and in various heel angles, offering precise handling and maneuverability. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Cigale models are known for their lively and responsive handling, providing an engaging experience for the helmsperson, even in challenging conditions. The inherent stiffness and strength of aluminum construction further contribute to the boat's ability to stand up to significant wind forces.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details for the Cigale 18 are not extensively provided in the core data, the Alubat Cigale range is known for offering highly customizable interiors within their robust aluminum hulls. The generous beam of 16.99 feet (5.18 meters) suggests a spacious interior volume, allowing for a comfortable and versatile living space below deck. Typical layouts for yachts of this size and performance orientation would likely include multiple cabin configurations, a well-appointed galley, and a comfortable salon area, all finished to a high standard, often with a blend of modern materials and classic wood trim. Owners of Alubat yachts frequently praise the ability to tailor internal layouts to their specific cruising needs, a benefit of the shipyard's skilled workforce and flexible aluminum construction. Adequate storage for long-distance cruising gear and efficient ventilation would also be key considerations in such a design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Alubat Cigale models, including the Cigale 18, often highlight the exceptional build quality and the peace of mind that comes with an all-aluminum construction, particularly for offshore passages. The performance capabilities are consistently praised, with many enjoying the thrilling and fast sailing experience. The ability to customize the yacht to individual preferences is another significant advantage frequently mentioned, allowing for a truly personalized vessel. While comprehensive owner reviews specifically for the 2018 Cigale 18 are still emerging due to its relatively recent production start, the overarching sentiment within the Alubat community, especially for the Cigale line, points to a strong appreciation for ruggedness, performance, and the unique blend of a performance racer with the durability of an aluminum cruiser. Common considerations, as with any high-performance yacht, might revolve around the maintenance of sophisticated systems and the costs associated with premium components, though Alubat's reputation for robustness generally translates to long-term reliability.