Westell Allegro Information, Review, Specs

While the Allegro shares its DNA with Proctor's racing designs, it was built with a heavier, more stable GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) hull to accommodate a small cabin and a weighted centerboard. The boat remains a favorite among those who appreciate the Honnor Marine legacy of building robust, dependable vessels that can be easily trailered and launched by a small crew.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Allegro’s sailing characteristics are defined by its Ian Proctor pedigree, favoring balance and responsiveness. Unlike many micro-cruisers of its era that sacrificed speed for interior volume, the Allegro maintains a relatively sleek underwater profile. It utilizes a fractional sloop rig and a lifting centerboard, allowing it to point reasonably high into the wind while maintaining the ability to navigate extremely shallow estuaries or be beached.

Under sail, the boat is known for its "dinghy-like" feedback; it responds quickly to gusts and requires active trimming. However, the added weight of the cabin structure and the internal ballast makes it significantly more forgiving than an open Wayfarer. According to historical design notes from Ian Proctor Designs, the hull was engineered to provide a stable platform that remains dry in moderate chop, a necessity for a boat intended for coastal passage-making rather than just lake sailing. Its tracking is reliable, though like many short-keel boats, it can be flighty in a following sea if the centerboard is not properly adjusted.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its modest 19-foot footprint, the Westell Allegro features a surprisingly functional cabin. The layout typically consists of two full-length settee berths that extend under the cockpit seats, providing sleeping space for two adults. Some configurations were marketed as 4-berth "family" cruisers, utilizing a V-berth in the bow, though this is generally considered cramped for anyone but small children.

The "comfort" of the Allegro is relative to the micro-cruising standard of the 1970s. Headroom is limited, necessitating a "sitting-up only" lifestyle while below deck. Most models featured a simple sliding galley unit or a dedicated spot for a single-burner camping stove and a bucket-and-chuck-it head arrangement. The use of mahogany or teak trim against the white GRP interior, a hallmark of Honnor Marine’s finish quality, gives the cabin a warmer, more traditional feel than many of its contemporary rivals.

There are few hull variants, as the Allegro was a specialized design, but its "sibling" in spirit is the Westell Nimrod. While the Nimrod was essentially an open dayboat version, the Allegro was the "deluxe" evolution intended for those who wanted to stay out on the water overnight.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a vintage Westell Allegro, the most critical areas of concern revolve around the centerboard and the age of the GRP laminate.

• Centerboard Pivot and Casing: The pivot bolt for the weighted centerboard is a common point of failure. If the bolt or the casing is worn, it can lead to significant leaks or a jammed board. Buyers should check for water ingress around the trunk and ensure the lifting mechanism operates smoothly.
• Deck Compression: Like many older boats with a deck-stepped mast, the area beneath the mast step should be inspected for "crazing" or compression. If the internal support post or the deck core has softened, the mast may no longer be properly supported.
• Window Seals: The original acrylic windows are often secured with rubber gaskets that perish over decades. Leaking windows are the primary cause of interior wood rot in these models.
• Osmosis: While Honnor Marine used high-quality resins, early GRP hulls from the 1970s are susceptible to osmotic blistering if left in the water for extended periods without an epoxy barrier coat.

Community & Resources

The Westell Allegro benefits from a crossover of two very dedicated communities. Because it was built by Honnor Marine, owners often find technical support and social camaraderie through the Drascombe Association, which welcomes owners of other Honnor Marine-built craft. Additionally, the broader Ian Proctor design community provides a wealth of knowledge regarding the rigging and sail-handling nuances of his specific hull shapes.

The Verdict

The Westell Allegro is a charming, capable micro-cruiser that offers a "pure" sailing experience. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who wants to explore coastal creeks and stay overnight in secluded coves without the expense and logistical burden of a larger yacht.

Pros:

• Excellent Pedigree: Designed by Ian Proctor, ensuring superior sailing dynamics for its size.
• Trailerability: Easy to tow with a standard family car and simple to rig at the slipway.
• Versatility: The lifting keel allows for "mud-plugging" and exploring shallow waters.
• Build Quality: Honnor Marine hulls are generally regarded as sturdy and long-lasting.

Cons:

• Cramped Quarters: The cabin is best suited for "weekend camping" rather than extended cruising.
• Active Sailing: Requires more attention than a heavy-keel boat; may be intimidating for absolute beginners in high winds.
• Age: Most units on the market require some level of restoration to rigging or seals.