DOLPHIN 47 (ALDEN)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 46.92 ft |
| LWL | 34.5 ft |
| Beam | 13.25 ft |
| Draft | 5 ft |
| Displacement | 32,700 lb |
| Ballast | 12,000.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.9 kn |
About the DOLPHIN 47 (ALDEN)
The Dolphin 47 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising ketch designed by John G. Alden Assoc. and built by Hodgsdon Bros. (USA) between 1973 and 1978, with only 13 hulls produced. Its scarcity and pedigree make it a unique collector's item among classic American sailboats.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize comfort and stability over speed, particularly those who appreciate the traditional staysail ketch rig for manageable sail handling.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 32700.0 lb, a D/L ratio of 355.5, and a low capsize ratio of 1.66, the Dolphin 47 is well-suited for bluewater cruising due to its heavy, stable hull form and full/long keel.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Tartan 44 and O'Day 42, which share similar production eras and heavy-displacement cruising roles, though the Dolphin 47 distinguishes itself with its specific Alden design and ketch configuration.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the DOLPHIN 47 (ALDEN) 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 46.92ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
We don't have enough data on the DOLPHIN 47 (ALDEN)yet to publish model-specific findings we'd stand behind — but here's a free general inspection checklist, built from our research into what actually goes wrong on boats of this kind.
Drawn from 7,029 documented issues across 2,391 models, ordered so the areas that most often turn up problems come first.
Own a DOLPHIN 47 (ALDEN)? Reports from owners are what turn this into a model-specific checklist — and they're the reason the boats above it have one.
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your DOLPHIN 47 (ALDEN)?
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Used sails that fit the DOLPHIN 47 (ALDEN)
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…