The perfect size

Created by the design office of John G. Alden of Boston, the classically styled 48 foot Alden sailing yacht falls right “in the middle” of the line and to many represents the “perfect” size. Not only does she have spectacularly balanced proportions, great lines and elegant detailing, but she also incorporates the best of the latest boat building innovations.

Her hull is built entirely from epoxy resins and E-glass/Kevlar laminates. Her classic good looks start with the teak covered deck, which allows the owner and his guests to feel a true sailboat under foot. Her large, deep cockpit can comfortably accommodate a crew of six and moving about on deck is safe and secure with wide side decks and ample handholds. Her deck layout and rig can be optimized for shorthanded sailing.

 

 

The interior combines the best of classic yacht joinery with modern practicalities. Curved galley cabinet corners not only demonstrate beautiful and aesthetic American cabinetry, but also eliminate hard corners in a rough seaway. Fit and finish is to the legendary standard of Alden Yachts. The galley is more than that – it is a full-fledged kitchen to prepare almost anything the owner and his guests desire, and is built into the main saloon so that the chef is in constant contact with all social life on board. Her state of the art mechanical and electrical systems are engineered to perform under the most demanding conditions of the New England coastline and all equipment and engines can be easily accessed and serviced. On deck she is equipped with a powerful Lewmar hydraulic furler, which makes short work of headsail reefing and furling.

 

 

 

The Alden 48 is a marvelous cruiser for relaxing day or overnight trips to secret coves or fancy marinas. But with a change of sails it can become a competitive racer. Notable features in the cockpit are the sound system with high quality speakers which are recessed into cuddies in the cockpit, and allows the guests favorite music to be heard almost anywhere on board. There is also provision for an on-deck mounted radar. When the set is detached up to its deck mount it rests under the protection of the dodger and in easy view of the helmsman.

The Alden 48 has a shape that will deliver a safe easy motion at sea and unusual speeds for her size both under sail or engine powered. Starting with a traditional shape and an impressive performance, each is different built and fitted to her owner’s specific needs; custom interiors, exotic woods and fabrics, dramatic lighting, unique fixtures and special deck plans are items that are all welcomed by the New England Alden shipyards. No matter which Alden 48 you board, you’ll know there’s no other like it. 

 

 

 

 

Text: Phil deKanter ± Photo: Alden