Albatros 950 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Albatros 950 in 1990 marked a significant offering from Astillero Zimmermann, a shipyard with a history stretching back to 1965 in San Fernando, Buenos Aires. The builder, consistently associated with naval architect Roberto Róvere, focused on producing practical, capable, and well-engineered sailing yachts. Róvere, known for his deep passion for designing vessels with a focus on performance, brought this ethos to the Albatros 950, aiming for a design that could navigate the varied conditions of Argentine waters while providing onboard comfort.

A notable design feature of the Albatros 950 is its versatile keel configuration, offered in both fixed fin keel and lifting keel variations. The lifting keel option, allowing for a minimum draft of 1.48 feet (0.45 meters) and a maximum draft of 6.23 feet (1.90 meters), significantly enhances the boat's utility for exploring shallow waters, a crucial advantage in river and estuarine environments. Its solid fiberglass hull and deck construction reflect Astillero Zimmermann's commitment to durability and longevity, characteristics that have allowed many Albatros 950s to remain active in the sailing community for decades.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Albatros 950 is a moderately weighted sailboat, described as a reasonably good performer with a decent level of stability. With a reported sail area of 410 square feet and a displacement of 7,275 pounds, it achieves a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.53. This ratio suggests a sailboat that performs capably across a range of wind conditions, offering good light-air acceleration without being overly twitchy in stronger breezes. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 266.93 places it firmly in the moderate displacement category, indicating a comfortable motion in a seaway, suitable for cruising.

While the original did not specify ballast, information from owners indicates an internal lead ballast of approximately 2,425 pounds (1,100 kg), leading to a ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 33.3%. This ratio, combined with its hull form, contributes to moderate stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind. Owners have noted that while the lifting keel version may not point as high upwind as some boats with deep fixed keels, its overall handling is balanced and responsive, making it a pleasant boat to sail for general cruising and local racing. The ability to reduce draft significantly also contributes to peace of mind when navigating shallower areas.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with a traditional interior, the Albatros 950 offers a practical and comfortable living space within its 31-foot length and 10.5-foot beam. The interior boasts excellent shipyard carpentry, predominantly featuring rich wood finishes and wooden flooring, creating a classic and inviting atmosphere.

Typical layouts often include a galley positioned along the starboard side, equipped with essentials such as a stove with an oven and an electric refrigerator, as well as a Webasto heater for comfort in cooler conditions. While specific cabin configurations can vary slightly between individual vessels, the design generally provides ample sleeping arrangements, often including a V-berth forward, a convertible salon dinette, and quarter berths aft. The interior headroom is approximately 6.23 feet (1.90 meters), offering comfortable standing room for most individuals. Owners have also noted good ventilation, contributing to a pleasant and "odor-free" interior environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Albatros 950 generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, often praising its robust construction and versatility. Many appreciate its suitability for local Argentine waters, including the Río de la Plata, Río Uruguay, and Río Paraná, making it a popular choice for regional cruising and weekend excursions. The lifting keel option is a frequently highlighted strength, providing unparalleled access to shallower anchorages and waterways, enhancing the boat's cruising grounds.

While no boat is without its quirks, owners have noted the importance of a good internal engine, suggesting that the boat's pointing ability in relation to fixed-keel counterparts might be a characteristic to consider, especially in competitive upwind sailing. However, the overall sentiment points to a well-built and capable sailboat that delivers a reliable and enjoyable sailing experience, standing the test of time in the Argentine sailing community., 13]