1074 Alden Dolphin 47

[Kj4fec]

Need some input. Getting ready to pull the trigger on a project boat. I am looking at a 1974 Alden Dolphin 47. Not alot of I found on them but it seems people hang onto them. Had anyone ever talked or sailed one?

[Celestialsailor]

First, welcome to the forum. Well, I have not sailed one. I have seen one and looked well finished. The designer, of course, is top notch and built in the U.S. which is another plus in my opinion.

[Patrick of M]

Haven't sailed one but the numbers sure make it look slow. Underpowered for sailing, but has big engine room, so a modern diesel could be installed for reasonable motor sailing.

[Bowdrie]

Oh boy, that's a pretty rare bird.
I've not sailed on one, but remember checking one out when they were still being produced.
They arrived on the scene during the heyday of the Tiawan built boats of similar design, (that were of inferior build).
Sonny Hodgdon knew a thing or three about how to build a boat that wouldn't break, and they used top quality American hardware/fittings.
Ok, they won't win any prizes in light air or going to weather, but settled down in the trades they'll ride like a Cadillac and give the off watch good sleep.
If Alden, (the master of Schooner design,) had given that boat an aft cockpit and a staysail schooner rig, I would have been tempted to sell my sister, (well, not really, but you get the picture).