Ovni 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Ovni 36 was in production from 1989 to 2005, emerging from Alubat's shipyard in Les Sables d'Olonne, France. During this era, Alubat distinguished itself by exclusively building boats from aluminum, a material chosen for its inherent strength, durability, and the potential for extensive customization. The Ovni range, of which the 36 is a key model, was conceived to provide experienced, long-distance cruisers with a vessel prioritizing safety, comfort, and the ability to access shallow waters and even dry out on tides. Philippe Briand's design for the Ovni 36 reflects this ethos, integrating the characteristic hard chine hull often seen in Alubat yachts, which contributes to both stability and interior volume. While explicit "MkI" or "MkII" variations are not commonly cited, Alubat's custom-oriented approach meant that individual boats could feature tailored internal layouts and designs, resulting in variations such as two or three cabin configurations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alubat Ovni 36 is rigged as a cutter, a configuration well-suited for versatile sail handling across a range of wind conditions. Its sailing characteristics can be qualitatively understood through its design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 23.21, the Ovni 36 suggests good performance, particularly in lighter airs, indicating it can be easily driven. The Ballast to Displacement (Bal/D) ratio of around 41.07% is quite high, signaling a stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to significant wind, a desirable trait for offshore sailing. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 213.68 places it in the medium-heavy displacement category, reinforcing its identity as a solid, capable cruiser designed for comfort and seakindliness rather than outright racing speed.

Owners frequently praise the Ovni 36 for its solid construction and robust concept. The fully retractable centerboard and swing-up rudder blade are defining features, allowing the boat to navigate extremely shallow waters, dry out in tidal areas, and potentially offer a softer motion when the keel is retracted in heavy seas. Anecdotal evidence suggests good stability, with some experienced Ovni sailors noting the practice of lifting the keel in adverse weather to allow the boat to "slide" more effectively over larger waves, enhancing comfort and reducing impact.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Ovni 36's interior details can vary due to Alubat's customization options, common layouts prioritize practicality and comfort for extended cruising. The vessel offers a generous maximum headroom of 6.23 feet, contributing to a comfortable living space below deck. Typical configurations include two double cabins, or sometimes three, alongside a sizable toilet cabinet, often located to starboard, and occasionally a separate shower compartment to port. The saloon is usually convertible, providing additional berthing when needed. Interior finishes frequently feature clean woodwork, with elm being a noted material, complemented by traditional teak and holly sole. While the interior might be described as functional and robust rather than overtly luxurious, its design is centered on providing a secure and livable environment for its crew during long voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alubat Ovni 36 often form a dedicated community, actively sharing knowledge and experiences through forums like the "Ovni Club." Consistently, owners laud the boat's exceptional solid construction and its inherent offshore capabilities, citing the aluminum hull and lifting keel as significant advantages for safety and versatility. The ability to access shallow anchorages and the confidence in its build quality are frequently highlighted as major strengths. While no widespread, recurring design flaws are commonly reported, general maintenance points common to any complex cruising yacht, such as inspecting the keel box hydraulics and ensuring correct anode placement, are sometimes mentioned by owners as areas to monitor. Overall, the Ovni 36 is highly regarded for its reliability and its suitability for serious blue-water cruising and exploration.