Ovni 365 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Ovni 365 in 2003 further cemented Alubat's legacy, which began in 1973 with a singular focus on aluminum construction and lifting keel designs. Marc Lombard, a distinguished French yacht designer known for his expertise in both racing and cruising yacht architecture, brought his vision to the Ovni 365. His design ethos likely aligned with Alubat's specialization in building strong, aesthetically pleasing boats that meet the demanding requirements of blue-water cruising. Alubat's manufacturing ethos, prevalent during the Ovni 365's production run, emphasized leveraging the inherent qualities of aluminum for exceptional strength, durability, and a high degree of customization, 19]. The Ovni 365 continued the distinctive hard chine hull design, a signature feature of the Ovni range, which contributes to stability and maximizes interior volume. While no significant MkI or MkII variations are commonly noted, Alubat's practice of offering tailor-made options allowed for unique internal layouts and designs, reflecting the shipyard's skilled craftsmanship in welding, woodwork, and painting, 19]. The Ovni 365 effectively replaced the earlier Ovni 36, offering a more modern design and significantly more length.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ovni 365 is characterized by a displacement of 19,400 lbs and a waterline length of 35.01 feet, contributing to a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 452. This suggests a heavy displacement vessel, designed for comfortable passage making rather than outright speed. With a reported sail area of 764 square feet, the sail area to displacement ratio is around 17, indicating moderate performance in light air. She is not intended as a sharp, racing-influenced boat but rather a capable cruiser. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.32 further reflects its design as a stable platform, capable of standing up to a good breeze.

A key feature of the Ovni 365 is its robust aluminum hull, which, combined with a lifting keel, grants it exceptional versatility. This design allows the boat to cross oceans while simultaneously enabling access to shallow creeks and even the ability to dry out on tides. Owners generally describe the Ovni 365 as a very capable, strong, and reliable vessel, well-suited for long-distance voyages and liveaboard cruising. While it may not offer the same "sharpness" as modern fin-keel performance cruisers, its handling is balanced and predictable, prioritizing safety and comfort in diverse sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ovni 365 is designed for comfortable living during extended cruises, emphasizing practicality and a solid finish. Search results indicate an impressive design and layout, with Alubat offering a high degree of customization to owners, allowing for unique internal arrangements, 19]. The hull is insulated, contributing to comfort in varying climates. Typical interior arrangements generally feature a forward cabin (V-berth) with a hatch, a main saloon with a central hatch, a galley, and often quarter berths. The interior is commonly finished with gloss varnished vertical grain oak, showcasing quality craftsmanship. While interior headroom specifics are not readily available in the data, the focus on liveaboard comfort suggests a thoughtful utilization of space. Storage is generally ample, though some owners note a relatively limited stern locker space. The boat typically has a generous water capacity of 85 gallons (or 348 liters/91 US gallons), a valuable asset for extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alubat Ovni 365 consistently praise its exceptional strength, robust construction, and inherent safety, making it a highly regarded choice for serious blue-water cruising and exploration 1, 5, Builder Article. The unique lifting keel design is a frequently lauded feature, offering unparalleled flexibility for accessing shallow anchorages and cruising grounds often inaccessible to fixed-keel yachts. The ability to "dry out" on a beach is a significant advantage for many adventurous cruisers. The Ovni community, supported by the "Ovni Club," highlights a strong sense of camaraderie and shared experiences among owners, underscoring the confidence and satisfaction felt by those who choose an Alubat. While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted that the stern locker space can be somewhat limited for extensive cruising needs.