Alden 32 Motor Sailer Information, Review, Specs

Conceived as a true motor sailer, her primary purpose was to provide a stable and comfortable platform for coastal and offshore cruising, emphasizing reliable propulsion under engine while offering the joy and fuel efficiency of sailing. Her design reflects a philosophy focused on seaworthiness and livability, a hallmark of both Alden's designs and Cheoy Lee's robust construction.

History and Design

The production of the Alden 32 Motor Sailer commenced in 1967 and concluded in 1973. During this period, Cheoy Lee Shipyard was at the forefront of marine innovation, being among the first to extensively utilize fiberglass as a boatbuilding material, alongside pioneering GRP and foam sandwich technology. This commitment to advanced construction techniques ensured the Alden 32 benefited from a strong, durable hull, reflecting Cheoy Lee's reputation for dependable and finely crafted vessels.

John Alden's design philosophy for motor sailers like the Alden 32 typically emphasized stability, comfort, and extended range, often prioritizing powerful auxiliary propulsion. The long keel hull form, a characteristic of the Alden 32, was a common feature in designs intended for offshore capability and a smooth motion in a seaway. The Alden 32 was offered with either a sloop or ketch rig, providing owners with flexibility in sail plan.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a motor sailer, the Alden 32 was designed with an inherent balance between motoring efficiency and sailing capability. Her substantial displacement of 13,300 lbs on a waterline length of 23.75 feet results in a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 444. This very high ratio indicates a heavy displacement vessel, prioritizing comfort and stability over outright sailing speed. The reported sail area of 480 sq ft yields a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 13.7, which is quite low and typical for a motor sailer, suggesting she will be modest in light air but capable of carrying sail in stronger conditions.

The Alden 32 features a long keel, which contributes significantly to directional stability and a comfortable motion, especially in a seaway. While ballast weight is not separately specified, it is integral to this long keel design, contributing to the boat's stiffness and ability to stand up to a breeze. Owners generally regard her as a capable small motor sailer, appreciative of her robust nature and comfortable ride.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Alden 32 Motor Sailer is characterized by its pilot house, which provides sheltered steering and enhanced visibility, a key feature for a vessel designed for extended cruising. While specific details on headroom and detailed interior arrangements are scarce, owner accounts suggest a somewhat unique interior layout. Given her era and designation as a motor sailer, it is reasonable to infer that the interior would prioritize comfortable living spaces, with traditional wood finishes and robust, practical fixtures, though exact details on cabin configuration, galley amenities, and sleeping berths require more specific owner insights or historical plans.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alden 32 Motor Sailer generally appreciate her solid construction and the overall comfort she offers. One owner notably completed a voyage to Tahiti aboard their 1968 Alden 32, highlighting the vessel's capability for long-distance cruising. However, as with any vessel of her age, potential maintenance considerations are sometimes noted, such as the possibility of soft spots developing in the foredeck, which may require attention. These vessels are often cherished for their classic lines and the enduring quality associated with John Alden's designs and Cheoy Lee's build.