Allures builds alloy centreboard cruisers with fibreglass decks and superstructures, which many contend is the the ideal combination for cruising. With that in mind, we picked the right boat to sail on a squally day off the coast of La Rochelle as he took the Allures 51.9 for a test sail.

The Allures 51.9 is the third generation of the flagship of this French bluewater range, and she retains the brand’s core concepts of a rugged aluminium hull combined with a composite deck that reduces weight and improves insulation, plus shoal draught and twin rudders.

However, it’s effectively a much larger boat than the previous Allures 51 and 52 models, with a longer waterline and more powerful broad stern sections, even though maximum beam is only 12cm greater.

An important part of the Allures 51.9 concept is also to raise the interior fit out to a higher level. Larger windows and overhead panels create even more natural light and there’s a 270° view from the generous navigation station at the forward end of the saloon.

Larger windows and overhead panels create plenty of natural light

Beyond this, the most obvious difference compared to the previous models is in the spacious full-beam aft master cabin, which is sure to be a major selling point for many prospective owners. The forward part of the accommodation can be arranged with either two equal en-suite double cabins, or a larger double guest cabin with a peninsula bed and more stowage, plus a smaller offset Pullman cabin with two single bunks.

The sizeable aft cabin doesn’t impact on the space available on deck and the cockpit is an impressive 6m long. Key sail handling operations are carried out from the security of the cockpit, making this an easy boat to sail short-handed.

Core Allures concepts of a rugged aluminium hull combined with a composite deck that reduces weight and improves insulation, plus shoal draught and twin rudders feature on the Allures 51.9

The first example was launched in May and is fitted with an optional hard bimini. After sea trials the first Allures 51.9 will join the 2021/2022 Grand Large World Odyssey 500, taking the southern route via the Magellan Straits.

Allures 51.9 specifications

LOA: 15.57m 51ft 1in
Beam: 4.82m 15ft 7in
Draught: 1.34 to 2.92m 4ft 5in to 9ft 7in
Displacement: 18,400kg 40,600lb
Base price: €706,860 ex VAT
Builder: allures.com

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