Aloa 17 Information, Review, Specs

The boat was part of a strategic lineup that included the Alizan and eventually led to the design of the Aloa 21 and the highly successful Aloa 23. While the larger models in the Aloa range were designed for coastal cruising, the 17 was strictly a "dériveur" (centerboarder), intended for beach starts, lake sailing, and protected coastal waters. Its design philosophy emphasizes a wide beam relative to its length, providing a stable platform that appealed significantly to sailing schools across the French Riviera.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Aloa 17 is characterized by its forgiving nature and high secondary stability. Unlike more modern, lightweight skiffs, the 17 carries a significant amount of "heft" for its size—typically weighing in the neighborhood of 200kg to 250kg depending on the specific rigging configuration. This weight, combined with a relatively conservative sail plan, means the boat is less prone to the sudden capsizes common in lighter dinghies like the 470.

In light air, the boat requires a attentive hand on the tiller to maintain momentum, as its wetted surface area is substantial for a 17-footer. However, as the breeze freshens, the hull’s volume provides a secure feeling. According to historical technical notes from the manufacturer, the boat was designed to be easily handled by a crew of two or three, but it is spacious enough for a family of four for casual afternoon outings. The centerboard configuration allows for excellent shallow-water access and easy trailering, though the tracking is more utilitarian than razor-sharp. It handles a chop with a "dryer" ride than many of its contemporaries due to the flare of its bow and high freeboard, a design trait L’Hermenier would later refine for the Aloa 23.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Aloa 17 does not share the same international fame as the Olympic classes, it remains a nostalgic fixture in French sailing history. It is frequently mentioned in historical retrospectives of SEB Marine’s contribution to the "democratization of sailing" in France. The model is often cited in regional archives of French sailing clubs as a foundational trainer that helped transition the industry from wood to fiberglass during the 1970s. Its pedigree is closely linked to the more prestigious Aloa 25, which received significant editorial attention in publications like Bateaux.com for its role in popularizing the "petit croiseur" (small cruiser) movement.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

For those looking at an Aloa 17 on the secondary market, the primary concern is the age of the fiberglass and the integrity of the centerboard trunk.

• Centerboard Pivot and Trunk: As with many dinghies of this vintage, the centerboard pin and the trunk itself are prone to wear. Potential buyers should inspect for "ovaling" of the pivot hole and stress cracks around the trunk base, which can lead to significant leaks.
• Deck Softness: The Aloa 17 utilized a basic layup that can suffer from delamination if water has regressed into the core of the bench seats or the small foredeck. Check for "spongy" areas when applying pressure by foot.
• Rigging and Mast Step: The mast step on the 17 is a high-load area. Ensure the fiberglass reinforcement beneath the step hasn't compressed over decades of use.
• Gelcoat Osmosis: While rare on boats that are typically trailered or dry-sailed, examples left in the water for long periods should be checked for osmotic blistering, a common issue for early SEB Marine fiberglass layups.

Community & Resources

Support for the Aloa 17 is largely found through the broader Aloa owner community. While there is no dedicated "Aloa 17 Class Association" due to its age, owners frequently congregate under the umbrella of the Association des Propriétaires d'Aloa (APA) and various French "Voile Légère" (light sailing) forums. These groups are excellent resources for sourcing replacement parts or technical drawings for the original rigging and centerboard dimensions.

The Verdict

The Aloa 17 is a sturdy, historic daysailer that offers a stable and safe entry point into the world of vintage French sailing. While it lacks the speed of a modern racing dinghy, its robust construction and heritage make it an excellent choice for family recreation or as a restoration project for those who appreciate the evolution of fiberglass boatbuilding.

Pros:

• High stability for a 17-foot open boat.
• Durable fiberglass construction that has stood the test of time.
• Generous cockpit space for a vessel of its length.
• Easy to trailer and launch due to the centerboard design.

Cons:

• Heavy compared to modern dinghies, making it difficult to manhandle on land.
• Limited performance in very light winds.
• Replacement parts for original hardware can be difficult to source outside of France.