LeComte Alc 35 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The ALC-35 Mk II is characterized by its "sea-kindliness," a trait inherent in many Dutch-built yachts of this period. With a displacement-to-length ratio typically hovering in the "heavy cruiser" category (often exceeding 300), the boat handles chop with a momentum that lighter, modern fin-keelers lack. Unlike its predecessor, the full-keeled Medalist, the ALC-35 Mk II utilizes a high-aspect fin keel and a dedicated skeg to protect the rudder, which significantly improves its turning radius and responsiveness.

The Mk II often features a taller masthead sloop rig compared to the original design, providing the necessary power to move its substantial displacement in light winds. Owners and historical testers note that while the boat is not a "light air flyer," it excels when the breeze freshens, tracking exceptionally well on a reach. The skeg-hung rudder provides a balanced helm and an added layer of security against submerged debris, a feature frequently praised by offshore cruisers. Because the hull was designed during the transition toward more modern performance shapes, it maintains a relatively narrow beam compared to today's yachts, which helps it slice through head seas rather than pounding over them.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the ALC-35 Mk II is where LeComte’s heritage as a master of joinery is most evident. The cabin is defined by an abundance of varnished teak and African cherry, avoiding the "fiberglass cave" feel common in contemporary 35-footers. The layout is a classic offshore arrangement: a forward V-berth with an insert, followed by a head and hanging locker that separates the sleeping quarters from the main salon.

The Mk II version often saw improvements in the galley area, typically located at the base of the companionway for better ventilation and ease of use while underway. Most hulls feature a U-shaped or inline settee arrangement with a heavy, fixed teak table. A notable variation in the ALC series is the "pilot berth" configuration; many ALC-35s were built with berths situated high and outboard of the main settees, providing excellent sea berths for long passages. Headroom is generous for a boat of this vintage, usually accommodating sailors up to 6'2". The use of an Airex-cored deck provided not only structural rigidity but also superior thermal and acoustic insulation, making the interior noticeably quieter and drier than solid-glass competitors.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While LeComte yachts are renowned for their build quality, the ALC-35 Mk II is now a half-century-old vessel and requires specific scrutiny during survey:

• Deck Core Integrity: LeComte used Airex foam coring in the decks. While Airex does not rot like balsa, it can delaminate if subjected to extreme heat or if water migrates between the skins due to improperly sealed deck hardware. Any "crunchy" or soft spots should be professionally evaluated.
• Chainplate Anchors: On many LeComte models, the chainplates are robust but can suffer from crevice corrosion where they pass through the deck. Because they are often glassed into the bulkheads or hidden behind fine cabinetry, inspection requires careful dismantling of interior trim.
• Original Plumbing and Wiring: Many of these boats were fitted with gate valves and older electrical standards that do not meet modern ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) specifications. Prospective buyers should budget for a complete overhaul of the DC panel and through-hull fittings.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: The skeg-hung rudder is a strength, but the bronze bushings at the base of the skeg can wear over decades, leading to vibration or "slap" in the helm.

Community & Resources

Owners of the ALC-35 Mk II benefit from a small but highly dedicated community. The LeComte Owners Association remains the primary repository for technical drawings and historical brochures, often facilitating the exchange of information regarding original parts and Dutch construction techniques. Because the yachts were commissioned through the Glen Island Yacht Club in New Rochelle, New York, much of the remaining fleet is concentrated in the Northeast United States and the Netherlands, where local shipyards remain familiar with their specific construction.

The Verdict

The LeComte ALC-35 Mk II is an "aristocrat" of the 1970s fiberglass era. It is ideally suited for a couple or a small family looking for a classic aesthetic and a boat capable of genuine blue-water passage-making without the price tag of a contemporary luxury yacht.

Pros:

• Exquisite Dutch interior joinery that far surpasses modern production standards.
• Strong, sea-kindly hull capable of handling heavy weather with grace.
• Skeg-hung rudder offers a superior balance of performance and protection.
• Airex-cored deck provides excellent insulation and stiffness.

Cons:

• Heavy displacement makes for sluggish performance in very light air.
• The complexity of the interior makes access to the hull and systems difficult for repairs.
• Maintenance of the extensive exterior teak trim can be labor-intensive.