Alisio 31 (Amel) Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Alisio 31 is intertwined with the foundational years of Henri Amel's shipbuilding ambitions. Designed by Henri Amel himself, production of the Alisio 31 commenced in 1962 and continued until 1970. This period predates the formal establishment of Chantiers Amel in La Rochelle in 1965, yet the 9.40-meter (approximately 30.84 feet) Alisio masthead sloop was a key early design that showcased Amel's initial philosophy of building yachts that were robust, comfortable, and manageable for their owners. Amel distinguished itself by embracing fiberglass (GRP) construction early on, prioritizing durability suitable for ocean voyaging, a characteristic likely reflected in the Alisio 31's solid fiberglass hull and deck. While no significant variations like MkI or MkII models are widely documented, the boat is also simply referred to as the "Alisio."

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Amel Alisio 31 exhibits performance characteristics indicative of a well-balanced and capable sailboat for its size and era. With a displacement of 6,614 pounds and a waterline length of 24.28 feet, its Displacement-Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 206 suggests a moderate displacement vessel. This allows for a good balance between speed and load-carrying capacity.

A standout feature is its impressive Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of 50 percent, indicating a significant amount of ballast relative to its overall weight. This high ratio contributes to exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and providing a reassuring motion in a seaway. Furthermore, the Alisio 31 boasts a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of 23.21. This high SA/D figure suggests that the Alisio 31 is a very high performer, particularly capable in lighter air conditions, ensuring lively sailing even when the wind is not strong. Overall, the Alisio 31 is described as a moderate weight sailboat that is a very high performer, with excellent stability and righting capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior diagrams and specific headroom figures for the Amel Alisio 31 are not widely publicized, it is understood to offer accommodations typical of a coastal cruiser of its size and the 1960s era. Given Amel's enduring commitment to onboard comfort and practicality, it is reasonable to infer that the interior prioritized functionality and sensible use of space for its intended purpose. Generally, a vessel of just over 30 feet from this period would feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, and a small galley area. A marine head would likely be present, possibly enclosed. Owners of older vessels sometimes note that the interiors may require renovation, suggesting a classic, perhaps wood-trimmed, finish that reflects the craftsmanship of the period. Storage would typically be adequate for coastal cruising or extended weekends, with consideration for essential cruising gear.