The Ovni 490 is 100% aluminium, both hull and deck, built by Alubat in Les Sables‑d’Olonne, France—part of their legendary Ovni lineage renowned for durability and global capability. The centreboard (lifting keel) allows for a draft of just 1 m when up—ideal for shallow waters and grounding—yet extends to 3.1 m (or 3.5 m depending on configuration) for upwind stability.
Advanced bulkhead construction, lead ballast, and cold-foam insulation underscore the design’s ruggedness—providing safety, comfort, and off-grid resilience even when beached.
Layout and Equipment
Pilothouse and Deck Saloon
Fully enclosed wheelhouse with watertight door and 360° visibility allows protected watchkeeping and navigation even in heavy weather.
Cockpit
A friendly aft cockpit with dual helm stations offers an open-air alternative for sailing in good conditions.
Twin Engines
Dual Volvo 50 HP shaft drives enhance redundancy and manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
Interior
Three cabins, two heads, and 6–10 berths depending on configuration provide long-term comfort for crew and guests alike.
Dimensions and Performance
- Length overall (LOA): 15.95 m (approx. 50 ft)
- Beam: 4.80 m
- Draft: 1 m up / 3.1–3.5 m down
- Displacement: up to 21 tonnes (fully loaded)
- Tankage:
- Fuel: 1,000 litres
- Water: 600–700 litres
- Blackwater: 55–110 litres
- Sail area: Approx. 129 m² (mainsail 65 m² + solent 64 m²)
- CE Classification: Category A – Ocean
Thanks to its aluminium construction and centreboard design, the boat achieves a Capsize Screening Formula of around 1.76, making it highly suitable for ocean crossings.
Blue-Water Readiness
The Ovni 490 follows the proven Ovni tradition, known for tough aluminium builds and go-anywhere reliability. Sister models like the Ovni 370 and 430 are well regarded in offshore cruising communities. These yachts are routinely sailed across oceans, into polar regions, and even beached for maintenance or remote land access—testament to the ruggedness and flexibility of the Ovni concept.
Builder and Heritage
Alubat, founded in 1973, pioneered aluminium centreboard yachts with the Ovni 28 in 1978. With over 1,600 units built to date, many Ovnis have circumnavigated the globe. The Ovni 490 is the latest in this tradition, with production starting in 2024 and public debut scheduled for 2025.
Who Is It For?
- Couples or small crews seeking safe, all-weather sailing from a protected helm
- Blue-water cruisers exploring oceans, high latitudes, or shallow anchorages
- Sailors who value durability, beachability, and off-grid resilience
Summary
The Ovni 490 offers a rare blend of toughness, versatility, and comfort:
- All-aluminium construction for durability and safety
- Lifting keel for access to shallow or protected waters
- Pilothouse with panoramic views for protected sailing
- Ocean-class design with deep blue-water capability
For serious cruisers aiming to sail far and wide—whether across oceans or into remote archipelagos—the Ovni 490 is a compelling, future-ready yacht.
More information: https://alubatamerica.com/ovni-490-aluminum-pilothouse-sailboat/
