OVNI 490: a full aluminum dinghy with integrated wheelhouse

ALUBAT expands its range with the OVNI 490, a 15.95-meter aluminum centerboarder designed in collaboration with Mortain-Mavrikios and CBA. This yacht meets the expectations of sailors looking for a 50-foot model with an integrated wheelhouse. This first unit will soon be delivered to a loyal owner of the brand, while five others are already on order. It will be officially presented at Grand Pavois 2025.

Designed for offshore sailing

The OVNI 490 is distinguished by its integrated wheelhouse, which can accommodate two to three people on standby, a major asset for navigation on the high seas. Its panoramic deckhouse and raised saloon offer optimum visibility, even when seated. The spacious, well-protected cockpit features two helm stations aft, ensuring excellent maneuverability.

The yacht is fitted as standard with Volvo's twin 50 hp in-line motors and a manual system for raising and lowering the centerboard, operated via a winch in the cockpit. This design guarantees ease of use and enhanced reliability for long crossings.

An interior designed for comfort

The interior of the OVNI 490 is designed to provide optimum comfort for long-distance sailors. The owner's cabin, located forward, features an off-center bed to port, plenty of storage space and a toilet with separate shower. At the stern, two cabins have been fitted out, one with a double or bunk bed, and a second shower room to starboard.

The saloon, with its panoramic view, is spacious and bright. The modern, functional galley is designed for life on board, and a passageway to port provides space for a washing machine, freezer and waxing cupboard. The technical hold, accessible from inside and out, offers ample storage space, while the sail locker has watertight access from the deck and saloon.

Innovative electric drive

This first unit of the OVNI 490 innovates with a BellMarine electric drive system, comprising two 20 kW in-line motors. This configuration relies on a fleet of 50 kW 48 V lithium batteries, complemented by over 1,600 W of solar panels and a 22 kW generator. This installation guarantees extended autonomy, silent, environmentally-friendly sailing and regeneration under sail.

The electrical equipment also makes it possible to eliminate the use of gas on board, with a galley fully equipped with induction hobs and an electric oven. This design aims to optimize the comfort and safety of sailors, notably by reducing the risks associated with traditional gas installations.

A sailboat designed for autonomy and long crossings

The thermal version of the Ovni 490 is equipped with two diesel tanks with a total capacity of 1,000 liters, and two water tanks of 600 liters as standard. Its wide transom, equipped with storage compartments and structured by a watertight bulkhead, facilitates access to the boat and storage of navigation equipment.

With its 129 m² of upwind sail area, including a 65 m² mainsail and 64 m² solent, this yacht offers the performance required for long crossings. Its variable draught, from 1 metre on the upper daggerboard to 3.10 metres on the lower daggerboard, allows access to the most protected anchorages.

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