Allures 51 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Allures 51 are defined by its stability and its versatile centerboard configuration. With the board fully extended to a depth of approximately 3.10 meters (10.1 feet), the yacht demonstrates remarkable tracking and upwind efficiency, a trait often lacking in traditional flat-bottomed aluminum cruisers. Conversely, with the board retracted to just 1.34 meters (4.4 feet), the yacht can enter anchorages that are strictly off-limits to other 50-foot monohulls.

In heavy seas, the aluminum hull provides a sense of "stiffness" and security; unlike fiberglass, aluminum does not flex or creak under the stress of large swells. Editorial testing highlights that the boat is typically cutter-rigged, allowing for a flexible sail plan that can be easily managed by a couple. The displacement-to-length ratio suggests a vessel that prioritizes momentum and sea-kindliness over raw light-air speed, yet the Berret-Racoupeau hull remains surprisingly slippery in a breeze. According to Yachting World, the design balances the weight of the aluminum structure by using a composite deck to keep the center of gravity low, which significantly reduces rolling in a following sea.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Allures 51 is a departure from the "industrial" feel often associated with metal boats. The shipyard utilizes a deck-saloon configuration that provides nearly 360-degree visibility from the seated position in the galley and dining area, a critical feature for watch-keeping in inclement weather. The use of light woods and modern finishes creates a bright, airy atmosphere that contrasts with the rugged exterior.

Layouts typically focused on a three-cabin configuration, with a spacious owner’s suite forward. A hallmark of the Allures 51 (and its successor, the Allures 52) is the inclusion of a dedicated "technical room" or workshop. This space is essential for long-term cruisers, providing easy access to the engine, generator, and watermaker, as well as storage for tools and spare parts. The sibling Allures 52, which was built on the same fundamental design principles, refined the cockpit ergonomics and added further volume to the aft cabins, but the 51 remains the foundational model that established the brand's large-yacht pedigree.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Allures 51 and its close siblings are frequent participants in world-spanning rallies, most notably the Grand Large Yachting World Odyssey. This model has gained a cultural following among "expedition" sailors who document their travels on platforms like YouTube, often highlighting the boat's ability to navigate ice-strewn waters or remote Pacific atolls. The brand’s association with Jimmy Cornell, the founder of the World Cruising Club, has further cemented the 51's reputation as a "no-compromise" globe-trotter.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Allures 51 must focus on the technical nuances of aluminum-composite hybrid construction.

• Electrolysis & Galvanic Corrosion: This is the primary concern for any aluminum vessel. A professional hull survey must include an isolation test and a thorough inspection of all through-hull fittings. Ensure that no "stray" copper or stainless steel components are in direct, uninsulated contact with the aluminum hull.
• Centerboard Mechanism: The lifting keel is operated via a hydraulic or manual winch system. Inspect the pivot pin, the lifting strops (cables), and the trunk for any signs of wear or marine growth that could jam the mechanism.
• Deck-to-Hull Joint: Because the deck is composite (GRP) and the hull is aluminum, the chemical and mechanical bonding at the sheer line is a critical point. Look for any signs of stress cracking or water ingress at this junction.
• Insulation Integrity: Allures uses high-grade foam insulation to prevent condensation and provide thermal protection. Check for any "cold spots" or areas where the insulation may have been compromised during later equipment installations, as this can lead to localized corrosion.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Allures 51 benefit from the extensive support network provided by Grand Large Services, the dedicated after-sales and refit division of the parent company. This organization provides technical blueprints, specialized parts, and "Blue Water" training seminars for owners. Additionally, the Allures Owners Group is an active, though private, community where technical knowledge regarding the specific maintenance of aluminum hulls is shared among a global membership.

The Verdict

The Allures 51 is a sophisticated tool for the serious mariner, offering a level of redundancy and safety that few production fiberglass boats can match. While it requires more diligent electrical maintenance than a GRP boat, the reward is a hull that can withstand a grounding or a container strike with minimal risk of catastrophic failure.

Pros:

• Exceptional Versatility: The 1.34m minimum draft allows for world-class exploration in shallow regions.
• Safety & Durability: The marine-grade aluminum hull is virtually puncture-proof compared to traditional laminates.
• Visibility: The deck-saloon design offers superior comfort and safety for long watches.

Cons:

• Technical Complexity: Requires a high level of "systems awareness" regarding electricity and corrosion.
• Weight: Heavier than performance-oriented composite cruisers, requiring more wind to reach hull speed.
• Price: The hybrid construction process is labor-intensive, resulting in a higher market entry price than mass-production boats.