Design and Construction
The builder describes the 51.9’s aluminum hull as strong because it can deform without breaking, while remaining light and durable. The metal shell is rigid in its own right, so the structure requires no structural bulkheads. This opens up exceptional interior volume. An aluminum watertight bulkhead seals the bow.
The composite deck saves weight, especially high in the boat, which the builder says improves performance and stability. Its sandwich construction also incorporates thermal insulation. Cruising World noted the use of composite for the deck and superstructure to reduce weight and simplify maintenance. Its review also described an insulated aluminum hull; glass-and-composite, foam-cored deck and coachroof laminates; and metal arches designed to carry heavy rigging loads.
The reviewed boat had MarineCork decking rather than teak. Its side decks were bordered by stainless-steel railings with triple lifelines and teak toe rails.
Rig, Handling, and Performance
The 51.9 is cutter-rigged, with three headsails—a staysail, genoa, and code zero—set on Furlex furlers. An in-mast furling mainsail is standard, although a traditional mainsail is optional.
A prominent arch rises from the low coachroof and anchors the double-ended mainsheet and traveler. It also frames a pronounced windshield that protects the cockpit. A Walder boom brake makes jibing easier. Running rigging leads below deck to Lewmar winches and Spinlock clutches, while sail handling from the helm is push-button.
With all the controls in the cockpit, the boat can be handled safely by two people or even sailed solo. Its centerboard also gives access to shallow anchorages. When raised, the board reduces drag and shifts the center of buoyancy aft for smoother downwind motion. Together, the raised board and twin rudders allow the boat to glide through breaking waves without snagging.
During a test aboard Castella, sailors recorded better than 8 knots under code zero on a beam reach in 14 to 16 knots of wind. Hard on the breeze in 2- to 3-foot choppy seas, the boat made better than 6 knots, with firm steering and a gentle, stately motion, according to Cruising World’s review of the Allures 51.9.
Cockpit and Accommodations
The nearly 6-meter cockpit is divided into three areas: a relaxation space for 8 to 10 people, a helm station with twin wheels, and an aft platform. Split tables leave clear routes through the cockpit, while the swim platform closes securely when the boat is sailing. A 2025 hardtop option preserves headroom when leaving the companionway.
Below, the interior emphasizes sobriety, space, and light. The open-plan living area brings together the saloon, a chart table with seating for two, and a spacious U-shaped galley. The galley sits at the foot of the companionway but remains clear of passing traffic. Coachroof windows and hull portholes fill the saloon with light, and the chart table doubles as a route-planning desk with direct access to the instruments.
The full-width aft cabin includes a central bed, chaise longue, private bathroom, and discreet storage. Forward, there is one double guest cabin and another cabin with two bunk berths, plus a spacious shared head.
The passage to the aft cabin contains a dedicated technical area with a waxing cupboard, washing machine, and storage for parts.
Equipment and Systems
The standard engine is a 110 hp Volvo Penta diesel, installed in a walk-in engine room; a 150 hp engine is optional. Bow and stern thrusters simplify docking.
The reviewed boat had a 24-volt electrical system with an 800-amp lithium battery bank, 500 watts of solar capacity, and a Mastervolt charger managing the inverters. A Fischer Panda generator supplied the watermaker and climate systems.
Freshwater capacity is 620 L, supplemented by a watermaker, while 730 L of diesel supports the boat’s range. Essential systems—including hull passages, fuel and water systems, and electrical networks—are designed for easy access.
The Verdict
The Allures 51.9 is a serious bluewater platform that trades some simplicity for substantial autonomy and a genuinely quiet, spacious interior. Its aluminum-hull and centerboard combination provides access to shallow water without giving up windward ability, while the cockpit ergonomics make short-handed sailing a credible proposition. The principal drawbacks are the complexity of its systems and the heavily optioned equipment list.
Pros
- Aluminum hull without structural bulkheads creates exceptional interior volume
- Integral centerboard combines shallow draft with strong windward performance
- All controls are in the cockpit, allowing solo or two-person handling
- Insulated hull is reported to be quiet at sea, without creaks or moans
Cons
- Extensive equipment—including the generator, thrusters, lithium batteries, and solar installation—adds to the maintenance burden
- Standard in-mast furling may not suit every offshore sailor’s preferences
