Alubat Ovni 395 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Ovni 395 are defined by its hull form and the versatility of its lifting keel. As noted in editorial evaluations by Yachting Monthly, the boat is surprisingly nimble for a heavy-displacement aluminum cruiser, though it is fundamentally designed for stability and safety rather than regatta speed. With the keel fully deployed, the 395 tracks well and exhibits predictable helm feedback. However, because the ballast is located internally within the hull sole rather than in the foil itself, the boat lacks the ultimate righting moment of a deep-finned lead-bulbed racer. This results in a slightly "tender" initial feel, where the boat may heel quickly to 15 degrees before hardening up.

Philippe Briand’s design focuses on a powerful, wide-stern hull that performs exceptionally well on a reach. Off the wind, the ability to partially or fully retract the keel significantly reduces drag and prevents "tripping" over the keel in heavy following seas. According to technical observations from the Alubat Shipyard, the 395’s rudder is also a lifting design, which is essential for maintaining control in shallow water but requires careful maintenance of the hydraulic or manual lifting tackle to ensure it remains seated during high-speed passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Ovni 395 moves away from the utilitarian "workboat" aesthetic of earlier Ovnis, embracing a more refined, lighter atmosphere. The standard layout typically features a two-cabin or three-cabin configuration. In the two-cabin version, the starboard aft section is often dedicated to a massive technical locker and a larger heads compartment, making it the preferred choice for long-distance couples. The interior is characterized by light oak or cherry veneers and a distinctive raised salon that provides excellent peripheral visibility through the wrap-around coachroof windows.

A significant design hurdle in any centerboarder is the keel trunk, which Alubat has successfully integrated into the salon table. While this does bisect the living space, it serves as a robust handhold when moving through the cabin at sea. Ventilation is a standout feature, with multiple Lewmar hatches and portlights throughout. The 395’s sibling models include the larger Ovni 435, which shares much of the same design DNA but offers more substantial tankage and a third head option, and the older 385, which is narrower and lacks the 395's ergonomic cockpit improvements.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a used Ovni 395 must prioritize the inspection of the aluminum hull and the keel mechanism. While aluminum is incredibly strong, it is susceptible to galvanic corrosion if the electrical systems are not perfectly isolated.

• Electrolysis and Zincs: Inspect the hull for pitting, particularly around the waterline and through-hull fittings. Ensure the boat has been fitted with a galvanic isolator or an isolation transformer, and check the status of the sacrificial anodes.
• Keel Pivot and Lifting Line: The centerboard pivot pin and the lifting tackle (whether hydraulic or rope-led to a winch) are wear items. It is common for the nylon or Teflon bushings in the keel trunk to wear down, leading to a "thumping" sound when at anchor or sailing in a chop.
• Internal Insulation: While Alubat uses thermal insulation to prevent condensation, early models or those modified by owners may have "cold bridges" where the aluminum ribs are exposed, leading to dampness behind cabinetry.
• Teak-to-Aluminum Bonds: If the boat features teak decking or cockpit seats, ensure the fasteners or adhesives have not compromised the aluminum deck. Any bubbling of paint around the edges of the teak is a sign of oxidizing aluminum underneath.

Community & Resources

The Ovni 395 is supported by a dedicated international community. The Ovni Owners Association serves as the primary technical repository for the model, offering detailed manuals, modification guides, and a registry of vessels currently circumnavigating. This group is essential for owners looking to source specific parts or troubleshoot the unique hydraulic systems found on these French-built yachts.

The Verdict

The Alubat Ovni 395 is a specialized tool designed for sailors who refuse to let a deep draft limit their horizons. While it may not match the upwind performance of a performance cruiser or the luxury finish of a high-end Scandinavian yacht, its "go-anywhere" capability and rugged construction make it one of the most respected blue water cruisers in its size class.

Pros:

• Unrivaled Versatility: Shallow draft allows for river exploration and drying out on the beach.
• Robust Construction: The aluminum hull offers immense peace of mind in debris-strewn or poorly charted waters.
• Safety at Sea: The Philippe Briand design provides a stable, sea-kindly motion in heavy weather.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: Requires vigilant monitoring of the electrical system and anodes to prevent corrosion.
• Initial Tenderness: Lacks the stiffness of a fixed-ballast yacht, requiring earlier reefing in building winds.
• Premium Price: Holds its value extremely well, making it an expensive entry-point for second-hand buyers.