Allures 51.9 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Allures 51.9 is defined by its integral centerboard, a design choice that places the ballast entirely within the hull rather than in the board itself. This configuration allows the yacht to reduce its draft from 3.34 meters (board down) to just 1.34 meters (board up), facilitating access to shallow lagoons or even "drying out" on a sandy beach. According to technical assessments by Yachting World, the twin-rudder setup is essential for maintaining control over such a wide-beamed hull, particularly when the boat is heeled and the centerboard is partially retracted.

Under sail, the 51.9 exhibits the "sea-kindliness" characteristic of heavy-displacement aluminum cruisers. While it lacks the lightning-fast acceleration of a carbon-fiber racer, its high righting moment and generous sail area allow it to maintain impressive average speeds on long passages. The hull's rocker and the weight distribution of the internal ballast provide a predictable, stable motion in heavy seas, minimizing fatigue for short-handed crews. The cockpit is logically divided between a working area—where winches and lines are concentrated near the twin helm stations—and a "social" area, ensuring that sailing maneuvers do not interfere with guest comfort.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Allures 51.9 leverages its composite deck to create a "loft-style" living space that feels significantly more voluminous than traditional metal boats. The use of a fiberglass superstructure allows for larger, more complex window geometries, flooding the saloon with natural light and providing nearly 270-degree visibility for the navigator. The standard layout features a massive forward owner’s suite with a dedicated head and separate shower, though the shipyard offers several variations to accommodate different cruising needs.

Sibling models and internal configurations often vary between a three-cabin, two-head layout and a four-cabin version suitable for larger families or charter operations. A standout feature common to the 51.9 and its smaller sibling, the Allures 45.9, is the "technical room" or workshop area. This space is vital for blue-water sailors, providing easy access to the engine, generator, watermaker, and storage for heavy spares. The interior joinery, often finished in light oak or teak, is designed with rounded corners and sturdy handrails, reflecting the builder's focus on safety while underway.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Allures 51.9 has gained significant traction in the high-end expedition community. It is frequently highlighted in "Best of" lists for long-distance cruising, such as those curated by Sail Magazine, which has previously recognized the Allures range for its innovative use of materials. The model’s predecessor, the Allures 44, famously completed the Northwest Passage, and the 51.9 carries that DNA, often appearing in YouTube series and blogs by "world-girdlers" who document the boat's ability to handle everything from tropical shallows to ice-strewn high-latitude waters.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned or new Allures 51.9 should focus on the specific maintenance requirements of aluminum construction and the centerboard mechanism.

• Galvanic Corrosion: As with any aluminum vessel, the integrity of the electrical system is paramount. Buyers must verify that no "stray current" is leaking into the hull, which can cause rapid pitting. Professional inspections should include a hull potential test.
• Centerboard Pivot and Cables: The lifting mechanism for the heavy centerboard involves high-tension cables and pulleys. These should be inspected for fraying or mechanical wear, and the pivot pin should be checked for play or seizing.
• Dissimilar Metal Bonding: While Allures uses high-quality bedding compounds, the transition points where stainless steel hardware (like cleats or winches) meets the aluminum hull or composite deck should be checked for signs of bubbling paint or crevice corrosion.
• Seawater Isolation: Ensure all through-hulls are made of non-conductive materials (like Marelon) to prevent the aluminum hull from acting as an anode.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Allures 51.9 benefit from the Grand Large Services network, a dedicated support organization within the Grand Large Yacht Group. This entity provides technical assistance, spare parts, and "refit" services globally, which is a rare level of manufacturer support in the bespoke yachting world. Additionally, the Allures Yachting Owners Association serves as a semi-formal forum where owners share technical modifications and cruising tips.

The Verdict

The Allures 51.9 is a purpose-built tool for the serious ocean voyager who demands the safety of a metal hull without the utilitarian "workboat" aesthetic of traditional aluminum vessels.

Pros:

• Ultimate Versatility: The 1.34m minimum draft allows for exploration of areas off-limits to most 50-footers.
• Redundant Safety: Aluminum is incredibly forgiving in the event of a ground-strike or collision with submerged objects.
• Ergonomics: The cockpit and helm layout are optimized for short-handed, blue-water sailing.
• Resale Value: Due to their niche appeal and limited production numbers, Allures yachts tend to hold their value well on the secondary market.

Cons:

• Maintenance Discipline: Requires strict adherence to electrical and anode maintenance to prevent corrosion.
• Initial Cost: The hybrid aluminum/composite construction is labor-intensive and results in a high purchase price.
• Centerboard Complexity: The lifting mechanism adds a layer of mechanical complexity not found in fixed-keel yachts.