Aloa 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Aloa 27 is characterized by a "stiff" and predictable motion. This is largely due to its moderate displacement and a ballast-to-displacement ratio that often exceeds 35%, a figure typical of Frans Maas designs which were intended to handle North Sea chop. While it is a masthead sloop with a standard fin keel, its tracking is notably superior to many French contemporaries of the same era, which often suffered from nervous steering in a following sea.

The boat is not a "greyhound" in light winds, but it comes alive in a Force 4 breeze. Technical assessments from French maritime archives suggest that while the sail area is modest, the hull's hydrodynamic efficiency allows it to maintain momentum through waves. The rudder is transom-hung on some early variants but more commonly spade-configured on the 27, providing high maneuverability in tight marinas. Sailors transitioning from the Aloa 25 will notice that the 27 carries its way much longer and feels significantly more "planted" when the rail meets the water.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of 27 feet, the interior volume was considered groundbreaking at the time of its release. The Aloa 27 utilizes a traditional layout but maximizes the 2.8-meter beam to create a sense of openness. It typically features a V-berth forward, a central salon with two settee berths, and a quarter berth to starboard, allowing it to sleep five—though four is the practical limit for cruising.

A key distinction between the 27 and its siblings is the dedicated head compartment located between the salon and the forward cabin, which offers more privacy than the "under-cushion" toilet found in smaller models like the Aloa 23. The galley is generally L-shaped and located to port, providing enough counter space for genuine meal preparation at sea. Throughout the production run, interior finishes shifted from heavy dark woods to lighter veneers, though the core layout remained largely unchanged. The Aloa 28, often considered a direct evolution or a "re-badged" 27 for certain markets, occasionally featured updated cabinetry and a more modern electrical panel but shared the same essential hull form.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners should pay close attention to several age-related factors common to 1970s fiberglass construction. While the Aloa 27 is built solidly, it is not immune to the following:

• Osmotic Blistering: Early French fiberglass from the SEB Marine era can be prone to osmosis if the gelcoat has been compromised. A moisture meter test of the hull below the waterline is essential.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The interface between the cast iron keel and the fiberglass stub should be inspected for "the smile"—a crack at the leading edge that may indicate the need for re-bedding or tightening of the keel bolts.
• Original Engine Condition: Many 27s were originally fitted with the Volvo Penta MD7A or early Yanmar units. Parts for the MD7A are becoming increasingly difficult to source, and many hulls have already undergone "re-powering." An original engine should be viewed as a potential major expense.
• Deck Core Integrity: Check for soft spots around the chainplates and the mast step. Water ingress in these high-load areas can delaminate the balsa core, leading to structural flexing under rig tension.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Aloa 27 is preserved primarily through French sailing circles. Owners often congregate through the Association des Propriétaires d'Aloa, a group dedicated to the maintenance and history of the brand. While there is no centralized English-language technical wiki, the Cercle Aloa remains a high-signal resource for obtaining original wiring diagrams and sail plans, though proficiency in French or the use of translation tools is usually required to navigate their archives.

The Verdict

The Aloa 27 is an overbuilt, seaworthy cruiser that offers a level of security rarely found in modern entry-level boats of the same length. It is an ideal choice for a couple or a small family looking for a classic "pocket cruiser" capable of more than just coastal hopping.

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: A Frans Maas design that handles heavy weather with composure.
• Generous Interior: High headroom and a clever layout make it feel larger than 27 feet.
• Solid Construction: Thick laminates provide a durable hull that ages better than many lightweight production boats.

Cons:

• Weight: Its moderate displacement makes it sluggish in light airs (under 8 knots of wind).
• Aging Systems: Original plumbing and electrical systems are likely at the end of their functional life.
• Access: Many technical resources and owner manuals are available only in French.