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Sailboat Specifications

Boothbay Explorer Alden

Masthead Ketch · Long Keel

Designed by John G. Alden & Associates · Built by Hodgdon Brothers (Usa) · First built 1971

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LOA 58.58 ft  ·  Beam 15.75 ft  ·  Displacement 53,300.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 1350  ·  Masthead Ketch  ·  Long Keel
About the Boothbay Explorer Alden Sailboat

Built by the renowned Boothbay Harbor Shipyard in Maine, the Explorer represents a classic interpretation of John Alden's traditional design philosophy. This sailboat embodies the timeless characteristics that made Alden one of America's most respected naval architects, with lines that prioritize seaworthiness and comfort over pure speed. The Explorer's design reflects Alden's signature approach to creating robust cruising vessels capable of handling challenging coastal conditions. Her moderate proportions and well-balanced sail plan make her particularly suited for coastal cruising and extended passages, where reliability trumps racing performance. The boat's construction quality benefits from Boothbay Harbor Shipyard's reputation for building substantial, long-lasting vessels using traditional methods and materials. While detailed specifications remain limited, the Explorer likely features the generous beam and comfortable accommodations typical of Alden designs from this era. Her hull form suggests good stability and load-carrying capacity, making her an attractive option for sailors seeking a traditional cruising boat with proven pedigree. The combination of Alden's design expertise and Boothbay's craftsmanship creates a sailboat that appeals to those who value classic aesthetics and dependable performance over modern racing innovations.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 58.58 ft / 17.86 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 42.00 ft / 12.80 m
Beam 15.75 ft / 4.80 m
Max Draft 6.17 ft / 1.88 m
Displacement 53,300.00 lb / 24,176 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 1350
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Ketch
Construction FG w/balsa cored deck and coach
Designer John G. Alden & Associates
Builder Hodgdon Brothers (USA)
First Built 1971
Last Built 1974
Number Built 5
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Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 400 gals / 1,514 L
Water Capacity 500 gals / 1,893 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Boothbay Explorer Alden's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Boothbay Explorer Alden has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.32. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Boothbay Explorer Alden's comfort ratio?

The Boothbay Explorer Alden has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 44.62. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Boothbay Explorer Alden safe for offshore sailing?

The Boothbay Explorer Alden has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.68. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Boothbay Explorer Alden?

The theoretical hull speed of the Boothbay Explorer Alden is 8.68 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Boothbay Explorer Alden weigh?

The Boothbay Explorer Alden has a displacement of 53,300.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 58.58 ft.

Who designed the Boothbay Explorer Alden?

The Boothbay Explorer Alden was designed by John G. Alden & Associates, first built in 1971.