Ovni 395 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Alubat, established in Les Sables d'Olonne in 1973, quickly carved a unique niche by exclusively building robust, lifting keel aluminum boats. The Ovni 395 stands as a testament to this enduring commitment, drawing from Alubat's rich history of innovation and its dedication to offshore capability. Launched in 2004, the Ovni 395 continued the legacy of the successful Ovni range, which began with the iconic Ovni 28.

Philippe Briand, the naval architect behind the Ovni 395, designed the vessel with a core philosophy centered on freedom of navigation and the ability to access shallow waters, a hallmark of Alubat's lifting keel designs. Alubat's construction ethos during this period involved the meticulous use of high-grade aluminum (specifically 5083 H111 and 6060 T6 profiles) welded in an argon/helium atmosphere, ensuring exceptional strength and durability. The design prioritizes safety, comfort, and the ability for a couple to handle the boat effectively, reflecting the needs of serious cruisers. While the basic layout tends to be fairly standard, Alubat offered semi-custom interiors, allowing owners to tailor the design to their specific needs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alubat Ovni 395, with its robust aluminum hull and lifting keel, offers a distinctive sailing experience tailored for offshore reliability. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.1 suggests a boat that performs well in light air conditions, capable of making good progress even when the wind is light. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 200, the Ovni 395 falls into the category of a medium-light cruiser, striking a balance between swift passage-making and comfortable motion in a seaway.

Despite a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 33%, which might appear moderate, the Ovni 395's inherent stability is significantly enhanced by its wide beam and the hard chine hull design characteristic of the Ovni range, contributing to its stiffness and ability to stand up to a breeze. Owners have noted that the Ovni 395 is "very stable, rolls little and pretty well thumps its way through heavy seas," underscoring its reputation as a "no-nonsense, go-anywhere cruiser" capable of carrying its crew safely and comfortably across oceans. The lifting keel, which reduces the draft from 6.89 feet to a mere 1.97 feet, not only provides access to shallow anchorages but also contributes to the boat's offshore safety by allowing the keel to retract in the event of a grounding.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ovni 395 is designed for comfortable and practical living during extended cruising. With a maximum headroom of 6.5 feet, the salon feels open and accommodating. While Alubat offers a degree of customization, common layouts typically feature a comfortable V-berth forward, serving as the owner's cabin. Aft, the boat often includes two cabins; in a standard two-cabin version, one might be a double berth, and the other a single, while a three-cabin option provides two double aft cabins. A head compartment is typically located on the starboard side.

The finish quality reflects Alubat's commitment to durable and functional interiors, often incorporating varnished vertical grain oak (with horizontal grain as an option) to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Storage solutions are generally ample throughout the boat, catering to the needs of long-distance cruisers. The aluminum hull is insulated, contributing to both sound dampening and temperature regulation, a significant advantage in varying climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alubat Ovni 395 consistently praise its robust construction and the peace of mind that comes with an all-aluminum hull, which is renowned for its strength, durability, and ease of repair compared to fiberglass. The lifting keel is a frequently highlighted strength, offering unparalleled flexibility for exploring shallow cruising grounds and the ability to dry out, significantly expanding cruising itineraries. The boat's comfortable motion in a seaway and its stable handling characteristics are also highly valued, making it a favorite among those who prioritize safety and comfort on long passages. The design's focus on practicality and its "go-anywhere" capability resonate strongly with its loyal owner community. While aluminum construction can be susceptible to dents from impacts, this is often viewed as a characteristic of the material rather than a flaw, with repairs generally straightforward. The Ovni 395 fosters a strong sense of community among its owners, who actively share knowledge and experiences through groups like the Ovni Club.