Conference unifix::sailing

1388.0. "Alden 36 info please!" by DPDMAI::CLEVELAND (Grounded on The Rock) Mon Nov 13 1989 02:53

    I've been looking and sailing a dizzying amount of boats for some time
    time now. I've found that I definately like the cutter rigs and I
    really find that the double-enders catch my eye the most. To this end I
    have located a 1981 Alden 36' cutter that looks to the naked eye to be
    in very good shape. New aluminum rigging instead of wood, all new
    steering mechanism, beautifully maintained, and a well proportioned
    interior with a ton of teak and storage space....
    
    Question: I am seriously considering putting an offer on the boat
    contingent upon seatrial and survey, in that order. Anybody have any
    information on this boat? I know she was made in a tiawainese shipyard,
    has a full keel, displaces about 10-11 tons so not a lovely light air
    performer, and seems to have been kept in impecable shape by her only
    owner since she was new.
    
    I've read all the notes on surveys, what to look for, had a boatbuilder
    friend of mine go through the boat and all the good stuff short of
    finding out if she sails like a slug in mud.
    
    If anybody has a comment on the boat, either good or bad, I really
    would appreciate hearing it.
    
    Thanks for your time.
    
    Robert

    Robert,
    
    	Alden yachts are classics!  Alden had three famous designers,
    Fenwick Williams, Murray Peterson (later Murary Peterson went of on his
    own as Murray Peterson Associates), and a third who I can't recall at
    the moment.  
    	These designs are of the 30s and 40s, with lower freeboards and
    cabins than the modern fiberglass hulls with a high aspect ratio cabin.
    	You will not have the same interior room as modern boats, so if you
    are out there to sail - Great!  If you do a lot of entertaining below
    decks, and need ballroom accommodations below decks - look elsewhere.
        You'll love the way she handles.
    Eric