Alacrity 19 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Alacrity 19 is characterized by its stability rather than its speed. With a displacement of roughly 1,500 lbs and a conservative sail area, it is not a "light air" performer; however, it excels when the breeze freshens. The twin-keel configuration, a hallmark of British coastal design, allows the boat to remain remarkably stiff in a blow, though it does incur a penalty in terms of increased wetted surface area and drag compared to a deep-fin keel.

Owners frequently report that the boat tracks well due to the directional stability provided by the twin keels, making it a forgiving choice for novice sailors. According to technical data maintained by the Hurley Owners Association, the Alacrity 19 features a ballast-to-displacement ratio that prioritizes safety and upright sailing over raw acceleration. Tacking can be somewhat slower than a single-keeled boat, as the twin keels require more momentum to come through the wind, but the trade-off is the ability to explore tidal regions where other boats fear to tread.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its diminutive length, the Alacrity 19 was marketed as a four-berth cruiser—a claim that is ambitious by modern standards but was a marvel of 1960s space planning. The interior is divided into a forward V-berth and two narrow quarter berths that extend aft under the cockpit seats. Headroom is limited, requiring a "seated" lifestyle once below deck, but the cabin provides adequate shelter for weekend coastal hops.

The boat's evolution led directly to its most significant sibling, the Vivacity 20. The Vivacity was essentially an expanded version of the Alacrity 19, offering slightly more beam and a revised cabin trunk to improve interior volume. These two models shared many structural components and were often produced alongside one another at the Russell Marine yard. Later variations of the Alacrity also saw minor changes to the hatch design and cockpit moldings to improve drainage and ergonomics.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Alacrity 19 should focus on the structural integrity of a vessel that is now over 50 years old. Like many early fiberglass boats, the Alacrity used a balsa or plywood core in the deck construction. Over time, moisture ingress through poorly sealed deck hardware can lead to core delamination and "soft spots."

1. Keel Bolts and Joint: Because the twin keels are subjected to significant leverage when the boat sits on the hard, the keel-to-hull joints should be inspected for "smiles" or stress cracking.
2. Rudder Pintles: The transom-hung rudder is a simple design, but the pintles and gudgeons are prone to wear and corrosion, leading to excessive play in the steering.
3. Chainplate Leakage: The stainless steel chainplates that secure the standing rigging often leak, which can lead to rot in the bulkhead they are bolted to.
4. Window Seals: The original rubber "Gasket" style window seals are a common failure point; many owners have replaced these with modern polycarbonate windows through-bolted to the cabin side.

Community & Resources

The Alacrity 19 benefits from a highly dedicated community of enthusiasts. Because it shares a spiritual and sometimes production-based history with Hurley Marine, the primary repository for technical drawings, original brochures, and maintenance tips is the Hurley Owners Association. This group provides a vital link for owners seeking to preserve these classic micro-cruisers, offering insights into rigging specifications and original manufacturer colors.

The Verdict

The Alacrity 19 remains a viable entry-point for sailors seeking a classic, low-maintenance pocket cruiser with genuine character.

Pros:

• Tidal Versatility: Twin keels allow the boat to dry out upright, saving on mooring fees and enabling estuary exploration.
• Robust Construction: Thick, hand-laid fiberglass hulls are over-built by modern standards.
• Towability: Its small size and weight make it possible to transport with a mid-sized vehicle, expanding cruising grounds.

Cons:

• Cramped Accommodations: While technically sleeping four, it is best suited for a solo sailor or a couple.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement and twin keel drag make it sluggish in winds under 8 knots.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared to address decades of potential deck leaks and hardware fatigue.