Alacrity 19 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Alacrity 19's story began in 1960, originally conceived by designer Peter Stevenson as the Alacrity 18, a molded plywood boat. Recognizing the emerging potential of fiberglass, Hurley Marine Ltd., known for its embrace of modern construction materials, adapted the design for fiberglass production, which resulted in the boat becoming more than a foot longer and being named the Alacrity 19. This transition exemplified Hurley Marine's ethos of producing accessible, well-built sailboats for a wider market, moving away from earlier wooden designs to embrace the durability and consistency of fiberglass.

Hurley Marine, under the leadership of George Hurley and with key designs from Ian Anderson, rapidly grew to become one of the UK's largest sailboat manufacturers, renowned for building robust, seaworthy, and practical cruising yachts. While Peter Stevenson designed the Alacrity 19, its production by Hurley Marine aligns with the builder's philosophy of creating manageable boats for single-handed or short-handed crews that still offered comfortable accommodations for their size.

Throughout its production, the Alacrity 19 saw several iterations, including the MkI, MkII, and the Weekender versions, indicating minor refinements or different interior layouts over time. The hull was constructed from a fiberglass-wood composite, blending modern materials with traditional boatbuilding elements.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 18.5 feet and a waterline length of 17 feet, the Alacrity 19, despite its small size, is often described as a surprisingly capable performer. Designed as a masthead sloop with a total sail area of approximately 158 square feet, it is well-suited for its role as a coastal cruiser or day-sailor. The twin keel configuration, while offering excellent shallow-water capability and the ability to stand upright when dried out, might imply a slight trade-off in upwind performance compared to a fin keel, though it provides enhanced stability. Anecdotal evidence from owners suggests the Alacrity 19 handles predictably and can manage various sea states, offering a secure feel for its size. Owners have noted its "cheerful readiness, promptness or willingness," summing up its character on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The Alacrity 19, true to its design as a compact cruiser, offers an open-plan interior layout. Descriptions and owner accounts suggest a basic but functional cabin, typically featuring V-berths forward that can convert into a sleeping area, and often two additional berths in the main saloon, providing sleeping for up to four. The Weekender version, as its name suggests, likely offered a more refined or enclosed interior for extended stays. Given its relatively narrow beam of 6.92 feet, the interior prioritizes efficient use of space. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, it is generally understood to be adequate for sitting, rather than full standing headroom, typical for boats of this size. Storage is usually found under bunks and in various cubbies. The construction materials often involve a combination of fiberglass for the hull and deck, with wood trim and joinery used to add warmth and a traditional feel to the interior. Ventilation would typically be provided by a forward hatch and possibly small portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alacrity 19 consistently praise its robust construction and seaworthy nature, often highlighting its ability to handle adverse conditions with surprising confidence for a boat of its size. Its twin keel design is a frequently mentioned strength, appreciated for enabling shallow-water cruising and convenient drying out. The Alacrity 19 is often seen as an ideal starter boat or a capable single-handed cruiser due to its manageable size and forgiving handling characteristics.

Common themes in owner discussions revolve around the boat's excellent value and its strong community, with the Hurley Owners Association actively connecting enthusiasts. While general maintenance typical of older fiberglass boats is expected, there are no widely reported systemic weaknesses or recurring major structural problems. Owners often engage in projects to refurbish and personalize their vessels, reflecting the enduring appeal and solid foundation of the Alacrity 19.