Alacrity 670 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Alacrity 670 is characterized by its stability and predictable behavior, traits common to the Peter Stevenson designs of that era. Most models found on the secondhand market feature the signature twin "bilge" keels, which provide a moderate draft of approximately 2 feet 6 inches. This configuration allows the boat to remain upright on a drying mooring—a critical feature for coastal sailors in regions with high tidal ranges. While the twin keel setup increases wetted surface area and can lead to some leeway when sailing close-hauled, the 670 is remarkably stiff.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the "heavy cruiser" end of the spectrum for its size, the boat does not excel in light airs. However, as noted in historical technical reviews by Practical Boat Owner, the hull’s generous beam and relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio mean it carries its canvas well into a freshening breeze. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "bigger" than 22 feet when encountering chop, tracking reasonably well due to its longish keel footprints. The rudder is transom-hung and robust, providing direct feedback, though it can become heavy if the boat is over-canvased.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of 22 feet, the interior of the Alacrity 670 is surprisingly functional, offering a significant upgrade in liveability over the Alacrity 19. The layout typically accommodates four adults in two distinct areas: a V-berth in the forward cabin and two settee berths in the main saloon. Unlike the more cramped 19-foot predecessor, the 670 often features a dedicated space for a marine or chemical toilet (heads) located between the forward cabin and the saloon, usually partitioned by a curtain or bulkhead.

Headroom is a highlight for this class, often cited at nearly 5 feet 10 inches near the companionway, thanks to the raised "doghouse" design of the coachroof. The galley is generally minimalist, consisting of a small sink and a two-burner stove located near the companionway for ventilation. Variations of the 670 exist, with some models featuring slightly different woodwork finishes or revised stowage bins, but the fundamental four-berth "open plan" remains the standard. The use of molded GRP headliners in many units helps prevent the "cave-like" feel often associated with early fiberglass boats.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Alacrity 670 shares much of the cultural goodwill generated by its smaller predecessor, the Alacrity 19, which gained fame when Shane Acton circumnavigated the globe in the 18-foot Shrimpy. While the 670 was not the vessel used for that specific voyage, it benefited immensely from the reputation for toughness that Acton's voyage bestowed upon the Russell Marine brand. The 670 specifically gained a following as an entry-level "blue water" micro-cruiser, with several documented cases of these boats making cross-Channel and North Sea passages, proving their merit beyond simple lake sailing.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Alacrity 670 with the typical caution required for early GRP hulls. High-signal technical areas for inspection include:

• Osmotic Blistering: Like many British boats of the 1970s, the Alacrity 670 is prone to osmosis. While rarely structural, it can be an expensive cosmetic fix.
• Deck Delamination: The decks are often cored with balsa or plywood. Areas around the chainplates and the mast step should be checked with a moisture meter or a percussion hammer for "soft spots" indicating core rot.
• Keel Bolts: On twin keel models, the stress points where the keels meet the hull should be inspected for "smile" cracks or rust staining, which may indicate the need for keel bolt replacement or hull reinforcement.
• Rigging Points: The internal chainplate attachments can suffer from crevice corrosion if water has leaked through the deck glands over several decades.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Alacrity and Vivacity Owners Association, which maintains a repository of original brochures, sail plans, and modification guides. This group is an essential resource for finding specific parts or advice on repairing the unique features of the Russell Marine range.

The Verdict

The Alacrity 670 is a quintessential British micro-cruiser that offers an excellent balance of cost, stability, and interior volume. It is an ideal "first cruiser" for those who value ruggedness over racing speed.

Pros:

• Sturdy Construction: Over-built fiberglass hulls that handle heavy weather better than modern light-displacement counterparts.
• Drying Mooring Capable: The bilge keel version is perfect for tidal estuaries and low-cost moorings.
• Impressive Headroom: The cabin height is superior to most other 22-footers of the same era.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: The heavy hull and twin keels make for sluggish sailing in breezes under 8 knots.
• Aging Systems: Original electrical and plumbing systems are likely at the end of their lifespan and will require upgrading.
• Leeway: Bilge keels result in less efficiency when sailing upwind compared to the rarer fin keel variant.