ALDEN 52
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 52.58 ft |
| LWL | 40 ft |
| Beam | 14.33 ft |
| Draft | 10.33 ft/ 5.5 ft min |
| Displacement | 39,000 lb |
| Ballast | 16,298.1 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 69.9 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 20.9 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 63 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 18.3 ft |
| FLforestay | 20.9 ft |
| Mainsail | 1,353 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 730.5 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 1,241.8 sq ft |
About the ALDEN 52
Fixed keel version draft: 8.0'/2.44m Center and aft cockpit. A number of different layout options. Traditional or reverse transom. (ALDEN 50/52/54) Aft cockpit shown in photo. Center cockpit shown on drawing.
The Alden 52 is a rare, high-performance cruising yacht designed by Alden and built by Alden Yachts Inc. (USA) in 1988. With only one hull built, this unique vessel represents the pinnacle of custom American yacht building, featuring a cutter rig and substantial displacement of 39000.0 lb.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced bluewater cruisers who prioritize seakeeping and performance over mass-market availability, as the single-hull production run implies a highly customized, one-of-a-kind ownership experience.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 39000.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.69, and a full/long keel, the Alden 52 is exceptionally well-suited for offshore passage-making, offering superior stability and comfort in heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Due to its singular production, direct comparables are limited to other large, custom-built Alden designs from the late 1980s or similarly sized heavy-displacement cutters like the Swan 52 or O'Day 52, though the Alden's bespoke nature sets it apart.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the ALDEN 52 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 52.58ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the ALDEN 52, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a ALDEN 52? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 2 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your ALDEN 52?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the ALDEN 52
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…