Allures 40 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Allures 40 is defined by its versatile centerboard configuration, which allows the draft to range from a deep 2.70 meters (8.8 feet) for upwind performance to a mere 1.05 meters (3.4 feet) with the board fully retracted. Unlike a swing-keel, the Allures 40 features an integral centerboard that retracts into a trunk within the hull, with the primary ballast located internally along the bottom of the aluminum structure. This design provides significant sea-kindliness; in heavy weather, the ability to partially retract the board allows the boat to "slide" down the face of breaking waves rather than tripping over a fixed keel.

With a displacement of approximately 9,500 kg (20,944 lbs) and a sail area-to-displacement ratio that leans toward conservative stability rather than light-wind sprinting, the Allures 40 feels deliberate and planted. On the helm, the twin rudders provide exceptional control, even when the hull is heeled, though the boat is notably at its best on a reach or a run. Because the ballast is internal and distributed across the hull floor, the motion is more comfortable in a seaway than a traditional fin-keel boat, reducing the "snap" of the roll. Owners often note that while it may not point as high as a racing monohull, the trade-off is the ability to beach the boat safely on its reinforced aluminum bottom or enter lagoons that are inaccessible to other 40-foot cruisers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Allures 40 maximizes its 4.15-meter (13.6-foot) beam to offer a layout focused on the practicalities of living at sea. The most common configuration features a two-cabin layout, which prioritizes a large technical room or "atelier" on the port side aft. This space is a hallmark of the Allures philosophy, providing a dedicated area for tools, spares, and systems access—essential for self-sufficiency during ocean crossings. A three-cabin variant was also produced to accommodate families, though it sacrifices a portion of this storage capacity.

The joinery is typically finished in light moabi or cherry wood, designed to contrast with the natural light provided by the large coachroof windows. Unlike many aluminum yachts of its era, which often felt dark and utilitarian, the Allures 40 interior feels like a modern Mediterranean cruiser. The galley is linear and well-braced for cooking under sail, and the forward-facing navigation station is oversized to accommodate full-sized charts and modern electronics. Variations between early and late production units usually involve the refinement of the companionway steps and the integration of more sophisticated electrical monitoring systems as the shipyard matured.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Allures 40 has gained a quiet but legendary status in the blue-water community. According to the Allures Yachting Heritage records, the 40 was the catalyst for the brand's rapid expansion into the Grand Large Yachting group. It has been a frequent subject of editorial praise in French sailing media like Voiles et Voiliers, which lauded its innovative use of composite materials on an aluminum hull. The vessel is often cited in blue-water seminars and "World Cruising" literature as the quintessential entry-level boat for couples planning a circumnavigation, frequently appearing in the rosters of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC).

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Allures 40 should focus their inspection on the unique intersection of its materials and its mechanical systems:

• Galvanic Corrosion: While the hull is built of marine-grade Sealium, the interaction between the aluminum hull and the composite deck requires careful monitoring. Ensure the insulating barrier between different metals (especially around stanchions and cleats) has not been compromised.
• Centerboard Mechanism: The lifting centerboard is operated via a pulley and line system. Inspect the board’s pivot pin for wear and the lifting line for chafe. If possible, the boat should be hauled to check the play in the board while partially lowered.
• Internal Ballast Condition: Since the ballast is encapsulated within the hull, check the bilge areas for any signs of trapped moisture or debris that could lead to pitting in the aluminum plates.
• Insulation Integrity: Allures hulls are typically insulated with foam above the waterline. Check for condensation patterns or "cold spots" behind cabinetry, which may indicate gaps in the insulation that can lead to mold in colder climates.

Community & Resources

The primary support network for this model is managed through Grand Large Services, the dedicated refit and maintenance arm of the Grand Large Yachting group. This organization provides technical drawings and spare parts specific to the Allures 40 hull. Owners also frequently interact through the Allures Yachting Owners’ Group, an informal but highly active network that shares technical modifications and cruising logs. For technical history, the designer's archive at Berret-Racoupeau remains the authoritative source for original specifications and naval architecture data.

The Verdict

The Allures 40 is a "category-of-one" vessel that bridges the gap between a rugged expedition tank and a comfortable coastal cruiser. It is best suited for the sailor who values the peace of mind offered by an aluminum hull but refuses to sacrifice the aesthetics and ergonomics of a modern GRP yacht.

Pros:

• Unmatched Versatility: The integral centerboard allows for beaching and shallow-water access.
• Robust Construction: The Sealium aluminum hull provides immense impact resistance for blue-water voyaging.
• Intelligent Layout: The dedicated technical room (on two-cabin versions) is a rarity in 40-foot boats.

Cons:

• Complexity: The centerboard and twin-rudder systems require more maintenance than a standard fixed-keel boat.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement and wetted surface area make it sluggish in winds under 8 knots.
• Market Rarity: Used models are scarce and tend to hold their value, making them an expensive entry point for used buyers.