Alphena One Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Alphena One began production in 2007, continuing until approximately 2013, as part of a collaboration between Alphena Yachts and Latitude 46. The overarching design philosophy, articulated by Alphena Yachts, centered on core values of efficiency, aiming to deliver an immediate and exhilarating sailing pleasure. Designer Tanguy Le Bihan crafted a hull that contributes to its elegant yet atypical design, ensuring a fast and safe experience, even when sailing single-handed.

Latitude 46, known for its commitment to exquisite "neo-retro" vessels, applied its signature ethos to the Alphena One. The shipyard’s approach typically involves utilizing Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) for robust hulls, complemented by lavish teak and mahogany for interiors and decks to achieve a classic yacht aesthetic with modern construction benefits. This blend of structural integrity, ease of maintenance, and refined aesthetics is evident in the Alphena One, making it a modern interpretation of a classic day boat. No significant variations or different marks of the Alphena One were noted during its production run, suggesting a consistent design for this sport keel monotype.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alphena One is engineered for lively performance, which is reflected in its key design ratios. With a high Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 26.12, she is particularly well-suited for light-air conditions, promising responsive acceleration and enjoyable sailing even in gentle breezes. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio, around 0.33, suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to wind without becoming overly tender. However, it is the exceptionally low Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 107.9 that truly defines her character as a very light and performance-oriented vessel, akin to a high-performance dinghy or a dedicated racing boat.

Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Alphena One as a lightweight and high-speed yacht, offering a fast and safe sailing experience. The design priorities translate into an exhilarating and immediate pleasure under sail, with characteristics that make her easily manageable, even for single-handed operation. Her spade rudder and bulb keel further contribute to her nimble handling and upwind performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Befitting its role as a day sailer and fast cruiser, the Alphena One offers a comfortable and clean interior layout, designed with functionality and simplicity in mind rather than extensive cruising amenities. The internal arrangement typically features two lateral bench seats, providing a space for relaxation or basic overnighting. While headroom details are not extensively documented, the overall design suggests a focus on the cockpit and deck for primary use, with the interior serving as a minimalist cabin. Essential equipment like a manual bilge pump, refrigerator, and battery charger are found aboard, underscoring its capabilities for short excursions. The interior finish is expected to align with Latitude 46's reputation for high-end construction and quality materials, even within a compact space.