Alc 35 Mk II (LE Comte) Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Alc 35 Mk II begins in 1971, marking a significant point in LeComte-Holland's evolution. Adolf LeComte himself played a crucial role in the design of the ALC-35 series, which succeeded the popular Medalist 33 in the company's lineup, signaling a move towards new, competitive hull and rig designs. The collaboration with William H. Tripp Jr. brought a blend of renowned naval architecture expertise and LeComte's proven manufacturing ethos to the project. LeComte Yachts, founded by Adolf LeComte, had by this time fully embraced fiberglass construction, shifting from traditional wooden vessels to durable, low-maintenance fiberglass hulls while maintaining their hallmark high-quality finishes. The company was particularly known for building solid-glass hulls and Airex-cored decks, ensuring structural integrity and rigidity without excessive weight. The "Mk II" designation indicates refinements and improvements over the initial ALC 35 model, embodying LeComte's continuous pursuit of excellence.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.23, the Le Comte Alc 35 Mk II presents itself as a moderate performer, well-suited for a variety of conditions rather than excelling exclusively in light air racing. Her robust build is further evidenced by a high ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.483, indicating excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 285.1 places her firmly in the heavier cruiser category, suggesting a solid, traditional cruising yacht rather than a lightweight racer. This combination of ratios points to a boat designed for comfortable and secure passage making. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Alc 35 Mk II offers a more comfortable ride than many comparable sailboats, contributing to a "just above average" comfort value. Equipped with a masthead rig, the Alc 35 Mk II is designed for straightforward and efficient sail handling.

Accommodations and Layout

While the detailed interior specifications of the Alc 35 Mk II are not extensively documented in all public records, the vessel is known to offer a practical and comfortable living space. Notably, the interior provides a generous headroom of approximately 1.90 meters (around 6 feet 2 inches), making movement below deck comfortable for most individuals. LeComte Yachts were renowned for their "superb joinery" and "yacht-quality varnished finishes," meaning the Alc 35 Mk II would have featured a meticulously crafted interior with rich wood trim and a luxurious, classic feel. Based on typical layouts for yachts of this size and era, one would expect a functional arrangement including a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees and a table, a galley, and potentially quarter berths aft. Storage would have been thoughtfully integrated throughout the cabin, reflecting LeComte's attention to detail and dedication to providing a capable cruising platform.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Le Comte yachts, including the Alc 35 Mk II, often praise their vessels for exceptional build quality and enduring seaworthiness. The high ballast to displacement ratio and solid fiberglass hull contribute to a sense of security and a comfortable motion, even in challenging conditions. The "just above average" comfort value has been noted by owners. The enduring appeal of LeComte boats is fostered by a dedicated community of owners, with online forums and websites serving as platforms for sharing knowledge and celebrating these classic yachts. While specific common issues are not widely documented, the general reputation of LeComte suggests a robust and well-engineered vessel, with typical maintenance concerns for a boat of its age revolving around original systems and fittings.