Alubat 58 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Performance on the Alubat 58 is defined by its massive stability and cutter-rigged versatility. With a displacement often exceeding 22 tons, the boat uses its significant waterline length to maintain high average speeds during passage making. The lifting keel mechanism allows the draft to range from approximately 1.35 meters (4.4 feet) with the board up to 3.50 meters (11.5 feet) when fully extended. This deep draft provides the 58 with exceptional upwind pointing ability and reduced leeway compared to smaller lifting-keel models.

Under sail, the Briand-designed hull exhibits the "stiff" characteristics of a hard-chined boat. While it lacks the light-air agility of Alubat's Cigale range, the 58 excels in "trade wind" conditions. The cutter rig allows for easy sail reduction; in heavy weather, the stay-sail provides a balanced center of effort that keeps the boat tracking straight even in significant following seas. Owners often report that the twin-rudder configuration—typical of modern Briand designs—ensures the boat remains responsive even when well-heeled, preventing the "rounding up" common in wide-beamed, single-rudder yachts.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Alubat 58 is typically a showcase of light oak or cherry joinery, emphasized by the natural light from the large deck saloon windows. Because these yachts were often built to semi-custom specifications, interior variations are common. The most frequent configuration includes a massive owner’s suite forward with a private head and separate shower, followed by two guest cabins aft.

The centerpiece of the living space is the saloon, which must accommodate the large centerboard trunk. Alubat engineers typically integrate this trunk into the saloon table or use it as a structural divider for the longitudinal galley. High-latitude variants of the 58 often feature an "all-weather" internal helm station or a raised navigation desk that provides 360-degree visibility. The sheer volume of the hull allows for massive tankage—often exceeding 1,000 liters for both fuel and water—which is essential for the self-sufficiency required of a vessel in this class.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Electrolysis and Galvanic Corrosion: As with any aluminum vessel, the integrity of the electrical system is paramount. Buyers should commission a specialized hull survey to check for "pitting" and ensure the isolation transformer and cathode protection systems are functioning correctly.
• Lifting Keel Hydraulics: The heavy centerboard is operated by a powerful hydraulic ram. The pivot pin and the hydraulic seals are high-wear items that require inspection every five years. Listen for "clunking" sounds when the board is partially deployed, which can indicate worn bushings.
• Paint and Coating Adhesion: While the hulls are often left unpainted above the waterline for a rugged aesthetic, those with painted topsides should be inspected for "bubbling" around stainless steel deck fittings. This is a sign of crevice corrosion where the two metals meet.
• Teak Deck Integration: If the model is fitted with a teak deck, it is vital to verify how it was fastened. Modern Alubats typically glue decks down, but older custom versions may have used fasteners that can create leak points into the aluminum structure.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Alubat 58 benefit from a dedicated international community focused on the maintenance of aluminum yachts. The Ovni Club is the most prominent technical resource, offering a wealth of information on the specific nuances of Alubat construction, lifting keel maintenance, and world-cruising preparation. Additionally, the shipyard Alubat maintains a presence at major European boat shows, providing support and refit services for their legacy models.

The Verdict

The Alubat 58 is a "no-compromise" explorer designed for the 1% of sailors who prioritize hull strength and shallow-water access over raw regatta speed. It is a complex machine that requires a knowledgeable owner to maintain its systems, but in return, it offers a level of freedom few other 60-footers can match.

Pros:

• Unrivaled "go-anywhere" capability due to the 1.35m minimum draft.
• The extreme safety and impact resistance of a thick aluminum hull.
• Huge interior volume and tankage for long-range cruising.
• High resale value due to the niche market and Alubat's reputation.

Cons:

• High maintenance requirements for the hydraulic keel and galvanic protection.
• Heavy displacement makes it sluggish in light winds (under 8 knots).
• The centerboard trunk consumes significant interior floor space.