Aloha 26 Information, Review, Specs

The Aloha 26, later known as the Aloha 27, began its production run in 1979. It was a product of Ouyang Boat Works, a Canadian company founded by Ti Ouyang in 1972, which aimed to create quality and seaworthy sailing keelboats. The builder, active until 1985, was known for its solid fiberglass construction and comfortable interiors, integrating "personal touches" into their designs to offer a blend of sturdy engineering and livable spaces. Robert Perry, the designer, is celebrated for his influential work in cruising yacht design. While specific design philosophies for the Aloha 26/27 are not extensively detailed, Perry's broader work often focuses on rugged, strong boats capable of keeping a crew comfortable at sea. The initial name, Aloha 26, was swiftly changed to Aloha 27, and the boat was also marketed as the Aloha 8.2 and Aloha 271, reflecting a consistent design throughout these designations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Aloha 26, with a length overall of 26.5 feet and a waterline length of 22.5 feet, exhibits a design aimed at a balance of performance and comfort. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) calculates to approximately 18.77. This figure suggests the Aloha 26 possesses good light-air performance, making it responsive in lighter winds, a desirable characteristic for recreational cruising. The Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.434 indicates a relatively stiff and stable boat. This higher ratio suggests the vessel is capable of standing up to more wind and offers a secure feel under sail, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. With a Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 180.29, the Aloha 26 falls into the category of lighter, more performance-oriented cruisers for its size, offering a good turn of speed without sacrificing cruising amenities. Anecdotal evidence suggests the design strikes a "happy medium" between cockpit and cabin space, and the boat is generally regarded as having good performance characteristics. The Aloha 26/27 is built with a fin keel, which provides good maneuverability, distinguishing it from boats with long keels that offer greater directional stability.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the Aloha 26 (often referred to as the Aloha 27 in discussions of its interior) is noted for its surprisingly spacious and functional interior layout. Reviewers have described the cabin as "fairly spacious" and "roomy for a 27-footer," with a comfortable design that differentiates it from typical production boats of its era. The interior volume has even been compared to that of a C&C 27. The design effectively balances cockpit and cabin space, and the absence of an aft cabin allows for ample storage both below deck and in the cockpit lockers. While specific details on the finish quality or materials are limited in available data, Ouyang Boat Works was known for robust construction, featuring durable solid glass hulls and comfortable living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Aloha 26/27 generally praise its solid construction and overall reliability, testament to Ouyang Boat Works' reputation for building robust, sea-kindly cruisers. The boat's comfortable motion in a seaway and its suitability for both coastal cruising and longer excursions are frequently highlighted. The design is well-regarded for its sailing performance, often seen as a good performer for its size. The enduring popularity of Aloha boats is further evidenced by the active "Aloha Owners Association," a community dedicated to maintaining and appreciating these Canadian-built vessels, underscoring the camaraderie and commitment among owners. While specific recurring weaknesses are not broadly documented, the long-term ownership of any vessel typically involves routine maintenance.