Alden 50 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Cheoy Lee Alden 50 commenced in 1967, with approximately ten hulls built by the Cheoy Lee Shipyard. Naval architect John G. Alden, known for his prolific career designing offshore and cruising yachts, approached each design by thoroughly discussing the vessel's purpose with the prospective owner. The Cheoy Lee Alden 50 reflects this philosophy, offering a design tailored for serious cruising. During this era, Cheoy Lee was a pioneer in marine construction, extensively utilizing fiberglass and Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) with foam sandwich technology, establishing a reputation for building robust and reliable vessels.

Variations were a notable aspect of the Alden 50's production run, with some models featuring a deckhouse and others a midship cockpit with aft cabin layouts. An example is the "Lady Pirate," which boasts a unique John Alden interior layout. Owners also had options for spar materials, with Sitka spruce being standard and aluminum available as an upgrade.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Alden 50, with its long keel hull type, exhibits characteristics typical of a heavy-displacement cruising yacht. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 14.9 suggests that while she may not be a light-air flyer, she is well-suited for handling stronger winds and delivers consistent performance when the breeze builds. The Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 33.8% indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of canvas without excessive heeling.

With a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 380, the Alden 50 is firmly in the heavy-displacement category, translating into a comfortable and seakindly motion in a seaway. This heavy build contributes to her ability to manage challenging offshore conditions with stability and grace. Owners frequently praise the Alden 50 for being "comfortable as well as fast under sail or power," highlighting its balanced characteristics for extended cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details can vary significantly among the ten hulls built, the Cheoy Lee Alden 50 generally offered spacious accommodations consistent with its fifty-foot length. Grounded in the builder's tradition, interiors of Cheoy Lee vessels from this period were often finished with elegant teak, reflecting a commitment to quality craftsmanship. Layouts could include deckhouse or midship cockpit configurations, often leading to variations in the arrangement of the salon, galley, and sleeping quarters.

An example, such as the "Lady Pirate," featured a spacious deckhouse with the galley positioned aft, suggesting an emphasis on comfortable living spaces and functionality for extended periods aboard. Owners can expect well-appointed living areas, though specific details on V-berths, heads, and storage would depend on the individual vessel's custom layout and subsequent modifications.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Alden 50 consistently laud the vessel for its classic aesthetic, seaworthiness, and comfortable motion, particularly in challenging conditions. Many appreciate the robust construction that defines Cheoy Lee yachts, a characteristic that instills confidence in offshore passages. These boats are often described as capable and dependable long-distance cruisers that evoke admiration wherever they sail due to their timeless lines.

However, as with many vintage fiberglass vessels, some owners have noted common maintenance issues. A recurring concern reported for Cheoy Lee boats of this era includes the potential for deck leaks, which often necessitate re-bedding of original deck fittings. Additionally, there have been mentions of bulkheads warping or separating on some older Cheoy Lee models, suggesting areas where diligent inspection and potential restoration work may be required for a boat of this age. Despite these potential challenges, many owners embark on extensive restoration projects, underscoring their dedication to preserving these classic yachts.