Ovni 385 Information, Review, Specs

The Ovni 385 was born out of Alubat's enduring commitment to building strong, versatile aluminum yachts with lifting keels, a philosophy established since the shipyard's founding in 1973. The French builder has consistently focused on leveraging aluminum for its inherent strength and durability, combined with innovative designs that allow for blue-water capability and access to shallow waters. The design of the Ovni 385 is attributed to the acclaimed naval architect Philippe Briand, known for his focus on beauty and efficient hull forms. During the Ovni 385's production run, Alubat maintained its ethos of customisation, allowing owners to tailor internal layouts to their specific wishes. This era of Alubat's history was marked by continuous refinement in construction techniques, perpetuating a passion for tailor-made boats and quality craftsmanship.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ovni 385 is designed for confident blue-water cruising, and its specifications reflect a balanced approach to performance and stability. With a length overall of just under 40 feet and a waterline length of 31.33 feet, she offers a solid platform for extended voyages. The boat's sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 20.01 suggests a design capable of respectable performance, particularly in lighter air, indicating that it should be responsive without being overly demanding.

Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.341 points to moderate stiffness, meaning the boat can stand up to a good breeze, though it may require reefing sooner than a heavier, deeper-keeled vessel. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 272.49 places the Ovni 385 firmly in the moderate-heavy cruiser category. This indicates a vessel built for comfort and solid motion in a seaway rather than outright speed, prioritizing stability and load-carrying capacity for long-distance cruising. The all-aluminum hull, a signature of Alubat, contributes significantly to its reputation for exceptional strength and safety. The Ovni 385's centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of 1.71 feet and a maximum draft of 6.73 feet, is a key feature, offering unparalleled access to shallow areas and the ability to dry out, a critical advantage for exploring diverse cruising grounds.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ovni 385 is generally configured for comfortable long-term cruising, emphasizing practical living spaces and generous storage. Common layouts typically feature two double cabins, a spacious head located adjacent to the companionway, and a salon area. The saloon often includes a large folding leaf dinette positioned over the centerboard case, a clever design that maximizes space and serves as a focal point for dining and relaxation.

While specific headroom details are not always consistent across all models due to Alubat's customization options, the design aims to provide comfortable standing room. The use of aluminum for the hull and deck allows for robust construction, and interiors are often finished with durable materials suitable for offshore life. Many owners appreciate the walkthrough access to a technical locker or storage space aft, which is invaluable for stowing gear and accessing systems. The design priorities lean towards robustness and functionality, catering to sailors who value a practical and secure living environment over luxurious aesthetics.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alubat Ovni 385 consistently praise its solid construction and suitability for offshore and cold/warm waters ocean cruising, often describing it as an excellent example of a blue-water yacht. The ability to access shallow waters due to its lifting keel is a frequently highlighted strength, offering unparalleled versatility in exploring diverse cruising grounds. The "Ovni Club" fosters a strong sense of community among owners, who share knowledge and experiences, underscoring the confidence and satisfaction derived from owning an Alubat.

While the Ovni 385 is highly regarded for its robustness and capability, some owner discussions touch upon specific considerations. Concerns have been raised regarding the apparent stability curve, with one owner noting a reported AVS (Angle of Vanishing Stability) of only 100 degrees for the 385, prompting cautious consideration for extreme conditions. Some discussions also mention potential issues with electrical wiring, suggesting that prospective buyers might want to investigate the condition of the electrical systems on older models. Despite these points, the collective sentiment emphasizes the Ovni 385's reputation as a reliable, go-anywhere vessel, making it a popular choice for experienced long-distance cruisers.