Allegro (Westell) Information, Review, Specs

The Allegro's story begins in 1956, the same year Honnor Marine Ltd. was established in Totnes, Devon. Designed by John Westell, a naval architect celebrated for high-performance dinghies like the International 505, the Allegro reflects his philosophy of creating fast and responsive sailing craft. Westell later became a technical director at Honnor Marine, further cementing the company's connection to his innovative designs.

Uniquely for Honnor Marine, which would later become synonymous with GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction for its popular Drascombe range, the Allegro was built using cold-molded wood for both its hull and deck. This construction method highlights its early place in Honnor Marine's production history. A notable feature of the Allegro is its standard configuration of twin, side-by-side retractable, ballasted fins. This design allows for incredibly shallow draft when the fins are retracted, while providing stability and performance under sail. A fixed keel version was also made available, offering an alternative for those preferring a more traditional setup, with the ballast remaining consistent across both variations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

At just over 20 feet in length, the Allegro was designed for performance rather than extensive cruising. It is described as a light sailboat with high performance characteristics, exhibiting reasonable stability and stiffness. However, due to its design emphasis, it has a noted low righting capability if capsized, suggesting it was best suited as a racing boat or for experienced sailors who appreciate its lively handling. The twin keel configuration, which was a progressive feature for its time, offers several benefits including the ability to take groundings level for easier maintenance and, when properly designed, can contribute to higher sailing speeds by optimizing wetted surface and generating lift more effectively as the boat heels. This design choice underlines its focus on versatility and performance in varying conditions, particularly where shallow water access is a priority.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size and classification as a performance-oriented day sailer or small racer, the Allegro's accommodations would necessarily be minimalist. While specific details on the interior layout, such as the maximum headroom, are not readily available in public records, it can be inferred that the cabin would primarily offer basic shelter. Owners could expect a simple cuddy-style arrangement, providing space for a few berths or storage for gear, rather than extensive cruising amenities or standing headroom. The design prioritizes sailing efficiency and on-water enjoyment over luxurious living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Due to the age of the Westell Allegro and its niche as an early wooden performance dinghy/small keelboat, comprehensive owner reviews and detailed forum discussions specific to this model are scarce in general public records. Information typically focuses on its design specifications and historical context rather than broad owner sentiments or common maintenance issues. Owners who cherish such vintage craft often value their unique sailing characteristics, the craftsmanship of their wooden construction, and their place in maritime history.