Offshore sail training and mile building expeditions

Ave Maria is an Alden Offshore 50 designed by the Alden team as a tribute to the design legacy of John G Alden. A stylish ketch with large over hangs, super hull strength and a powerful sail plan make Ave Maria a comfortable, easily driven and powerful blue water cruising sailboat.

As the model name suggests she is a thoroughbred sailboat designed and built for offshore passage making in safety and comfort. Join us as we share these sailing voyages for immersion training, experience and skill development, mile building and adventure travellers on unique island hoping South Pacific sailing expeditions.

Accommodations & Equipment:
Ave Maria has a total of 10 berths, one private head and shower, a saloon that can comfortably seat eight for dinner, an efficient sea-going galley and a sturdy hardtop bimini. Each expedition member has their own bunk (couples have a double. Although Ave Maria can accommodate up to 10 persons, limiting participation from 4 to 6 plus crew ensures more comfort for all.

As a heavy displacement fiberglass, full keel ketch with a large sail plan . She is ideally suited to blue water passage making. Catering for crews both young and old with varying levels of experience. All of whom can be fully involved in sailing the boat. Participating in exciting sailing and a proper challenge and adventure.

For windless days we have an 85 h.p. Perkins diesel engine which is in as new condition having recently been completly reconditioned. Making a comfortable 7 knots under power.

Ave Maria is equipped with a strong and reliable CM950 auto pilot, twelve person life raft, extensive first aid supplies, Starlink Internet, Iridium worldwide satellite communication system, 2 EPIRB’s (emergency position indicating radio beacon), a 24 mile radar/chart plotter, AIS transceiver, 4 global position systems, 2 VHF radios, marine SSB radio, extensive instrumentation, 3 bilge pumps, fire extinguishers, float vests for each person, manual and electric water makers and 200 gallons of water storage. The tender is a rigid- bottom AB R.I.B. 3.41 with 15 hp outboard.