Allures 39.9 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

At the heart of the Allures 39.9’s performance is its integral lifting centerboard, a design choice that distinguishes it from traditional fixed-keel cruisers. With the board down, the yacht draws nearly 9 feet (2.75m), providing the leverage and lift necessary for efficient upwind work. Conversely, with the board retracted, the draft reduces to a mere 3.5 feet (1.06m), allowing access to secluded anchorages and river systems inaccessible to most 40-footers.

The sailing experience is characterized by a high degree of stability and predictability. Editorial testing from Yachting Monthly notes that the twin-rudder configuration provides exceptional bite, ensuring the boat remains controllable even when over-canvassed or surfing down Atlantic swells. While the displacement is naturally higher than that of a pure GRP performance cruiser, the 39.9’s hull features a wide stern and subtle chines that improve power and stability when reaching. The sail-area-to-displacement ratio is tuned for consistent passage-making rather than light-air sprinting, though the addition of a bowsprit for a Code 0 or asymmetric spinnaker significantly enhances performance in the doldrums. Owners often report that the boat feels "planted" in a seaway, with the weight of the aluminum hull providing a dampened, comfortable motion that reduces crew fatigue.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Allures 39.9 leverages its 13-foot 7-inch beam to create an airy, light-filled living space that belies its rugged exterior. The interior is most commonly configured in a two-cabin or three-cabin layout. The two-cabin "Owner’s version" is particularly popular among long-distance couples, as it converts the starboard aft area into a massive technical room and storage locker, accessible from both the cockpit and the interior—an essential feature for carrying spare parts, diving gear, and tools.

The aesthetic, often utilizing light woods like Alpi Oak or Cherry, is designed to be functional yet warm. A standout feature is the forward-facing navigation station, which offers a commanding view and serves as a true communications hub for offshore passage planning. Because the centerboard trunk is integrated into the salon table cabinetry, it does not impede movement through the cabin. The galley is typically linear and located to port, providing ample bracing points for cooking at sea. For those seeking sibling variants, the Allures 40.9 serves as the direct successor, featuring a redesigned cockpit and slightly more vertical transom, while the original Allures 40 offers a more traditional, narrower hull profile.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Allures 39.9 has earned a reputation as a "go-anywhere" vessel, frequently appearing in the logs of high-latitude explorers and participants in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC). While not a singular "celebrity" boat, the model gained traction in technical circles following detailed reviews in European maritime journals like Die Yacht and Voiles et Voiliers, which praised its thermal insulation—a critical factor for boats constructed of aluminum. It is a frequent subject of the "Grand Large Services" ecosystem, where the builder documents the voyages of owners as they traverse the Northwest Passage or the South Pacific, reinforcing the brand's identity as a tool for serious adventure.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a used Allures 39.9 requires a specialized survey focusing on the nuances of aluminum and composite integration.

• Galvanic Corrosion: The most critical inspection point is the hull's electrical isolation. Prospective buyers should ensure that the previous owner has not installed un-isolated bronze fittings or suffered from significant stray current leaks. Check the status of the sacrificial anodes and the integrity of the paint system near the waterline.
• Centerboard Mechanism: The lifting foil is operated via a system of blocks and lines (or occasionally a hydraulic ram). The pivot pin and the internal trunk should be inspected for wear and "clunking" sounds when at anchor, which may indicate the need for new delrin bushings.
• Deck-to-Hull Joint: While the bonding process used by Allures is highly regarded, the mechanical and adhesive joint between the aluminum hull and GRP deck should be checked for signs of stress or water ingress, particularly near the stanchion bases.
• Engine Cooling: Ensure the heat exchanger is clean; aluminum boats often use a specific cooling circuit to avoid raw water contact with the internal hull structure where possible.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Allures 39.9 benefit from the Grand Large Yachting ecosystem, which provides comprehensive support through their "Grand Large Services" division. This organization offers technical training, world-wide spare parts delivery, and organized rallies for Allures, Garcia, and Outremer owners. Additionally, the Allures Owners Group (often found on specialized social media platforms) provides a deep archive of technical modifications, ranging from lithium battery upgrades to customized bimini designs for tropical cruising.

The Verdict

The Allures 39.9 is a premier choice for the offshore sailor who refuses to choose between the safety of a metal hull and the shallow-water freedom of a centerboarder.

Pros:

• Versatility: The lifting centerboard allows for beaching and entering shallow lagoons.
• Safety: The aluminum hull provides superior puncture resistance compared to GRP.
• Handling: Twin rudders offer excellent control in heavy weather.
• Insulation: Designed for multi-climate cruising with high-quality thermal barriers.

Cons:

• Maintenance: Aluminum hulls require strict adherence to electrical isolation protocols.
• Cost: Significant price premium over mass-produced fiberglass yachts.
• Weight: Heavier displacement means it is not a "light air" specialist.