Flying Whale — Alajuela 48 Ocean Cruiser for Sale
Alexandra
Built to Lloyds standards by Alajuela Yacht Corp., Flying Whale (an Alajuela 48) features a hand-laid GRP hull, deep fin keel and skeg-hung rudder that simplify long-voyage logistics, enable reliable provisioning for extended passages, and reduce maintenance demands associated with offshore cruising craft.
Overview and Key Specifications
The Alajuela 48 is a proven bluewater staysail ketch designed by Raymond Richards for serious offshore work: moderate displacement, heavy lead ballast and traditional teak trim combine comfort with structural integrity. Built for long-range autonomy, the layout, tankage and protected centre cockpit offer a safe platform for ocean voyaging.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Builder | Alajuela Yacht Corp. (Lloyds build) |
| Model | Alajuela 48 (Flying Whale) |
| Hull | Hand-laid fiberglass (GRP) |
| Keel / Rudder | Fin keel / Skeg-hung partial-skeg rudder |
| Engine | Beta Marine 85hp diesel (2020) — ~700 hrs |
| Rig | Ketch masthead, aluminium masts, staysail cutter setup |
| Recent services | Anti-foul August 2025; rigging replaced 2024; sail servicing 2025 |
| Dinghy / Outboard | Highfield CL310 (2019) / Suzuki 20hp (2020) |
📚 You may also like
Accommodations and Onboard Layout
Flying Whale offers a two-cabin, two-head layout with flexible sleeping arrangements for up to eight people and generous 6'7" headroom. The configuration prioritizes secure storage and liveaboard comfort for long passages.
- Forward area: dedicated workroom / sail and ground-tackle storage with top-opening hatch.
- Forward heads: shower to port; Lavac toilet and basin to starboard.
- Cabins: owners’ cabin to starboard with double pullman berth, vanity and hanging locker; port cabin converts from a double pullman to two sea berths.
- Galley: midships to port, U-shaped with large stainless sink, 4-burner hob and oven; main fridge needs compressor repair, auxiliary Dometic CFX 100 in saloon.
- Saloon: aft horseshoe dining that converts to a double berth, bookshelves and cabinets with stained-glass inserts.
- Nav station: chart table, electrical panels and dedicated seating to starboard.
Mechanical & Electrical Systems
The mechanical package centers on the Beta Marine 85hp diesel (2020) mated to a PRM transmission and a three-bladed prop via shaft drive — a simple, serviceable installation for long-distance motoring. Fuel and tankage provisions suit extended passages but should be inspected to match specific voyage plans.
Electrical fit-out
- 2 x Victron Smart Lithium 24V/200Ah house batteries (new 2024)
- NorthStar engine start and ancillary batteries (new 2022)
- 4 x SunPower Cell Flex 130W solar panels
- Victron Quattro II 24V/3000/120 charger and Phoenix inverter
- Victron Lynx Smart BMS + Ekrano and LED 24V lighting
- Electric Energy D400 24V wind generator (not installed)
- Starlink (2022) and Peplink Max Transit for connectivity underway
Sails, Rigging & Deck Gear
The ketch rig uses a masthead configuration with aluminium spars. Rigging was renewed in 2024 and running rigging in 2022; mainsail has slab reefing with a Mack Pack refurbed in 2025 and roller-furling headsails serviced the same year.
Sails inventory
- Mainsail — used, serviced 2025
- 2 x Genoa — used, serviced 2025
- Staysail — used
- Spinnaker — used
- Mizzen — used, serviced 2025
Anchoring & deck equipment
- Lofrans Falkon anchor windlass with new gypsy
- Mantus 85lb and Fortress FX 55 anchors
- 3/8" 300ft chain and 300ft rode
- Bimini (cocoa), navy sail covers, swim ladder, Magma BBQ
Navigation, Safety & Additional Systems
Navigation electronics are contemporary and suited to offshore passages: B&G plotter and radar (2022), Garmin/Vesper Cortex VHF & AIS (2023), Airmar DST810 depth/speed sensors and a Hydrovane self-steering system for long watches.
- Autopilot: B&G NAC-3 (2022)
- Wind instruments: B&G WS310
- Safety: Orion flares (new 2025), life jackets, Lifeslings, electric/manual bilges, fire extinguishers, gas alarm, smoke detector, emergency tiller
- Additional: Seawater Pro 24V 40gph watermaker (2023), Sailrite sewing machine, paddle board, comprehensive tools and spares
Inspection, Maintenance & Transport Considerations
Key pre-purchase checks should focus on hull/deck bond integrity, keel-to-hull joint, condition of the partial skeg and rudder bearings, state of anti-foul, and the watermaker and refrigeration systems. Transport or transhipment logistics (if moving the vessel between regions) will require attention to mast-stepping procedures, local regulatory paperwork and port/harbor berth availability for survey windows.
Practical notes for buyers and brokers
- Confirm documented service history for engine, transmission and steering linkages.
- Plan for a sea trial to validate engine performance and hydrodynamics under sail.
- Estimate re-painting and deck maintenance in budget planning; decks currently painted and due for re-coating.
Why this sale matters for cruising and charter markets
While the sale of a single Alajuela 48 is a niche event in the wider yachting market, it highlights continuing demand for robust, long-range cruisers suited to independent expeditions. For charter operators and private owners considering long-term bluewater itineraries, vessels like Flying Whale represent platforms that can be adapted for premium private charters, long-term liveaboard, or conversion to high-end skippered voyages.
GetBoat perspective and platform benefits
GetBoat always keeps an eye on news related to sailing and seaside vacations; the service values freedom, energy, and the ability to choose your own course. Through transparent listings a client can view make, model, condition, and ratings beforehand, enabling informed choices whether seeking a quiet couples’ cruise or an active group charter. GetBoat places no limits on a good life, offering options to suit preferences, budgets, and tastes — find a vessel that matches your plan and enjoy quality time on the water.
Highlights of this Alajuela 48 show the topical importance of resilient design, dependable power and modern electronics for safe long-distance cruising; still, experiencing a new location is always a multifaceted process where one learns about the culture, nature, the indescribable palette of local colors, its rhythm of life and also the unique aspects of the service. If you are planning your next trip to the sea, you should definitely consider renting a boat (boat rentals, rent a boat, rent a yacht), as each inlet, bay, and lagoon is unique and tells you about the region just as much as the local cuisine, architecture, and language GetBoat.com
Planning ahead — forecast and call to action
The sale of Flying Whale is unlikely to shift the global tourism map by itself, but it serves as a reminder that demand for well-equipped bluewater yachts continues among experienced cruisers and niche charter markets. Start planning your next seaside adventure and make sure to book the best boat and yacht rentals with GetBoat before the opportunity sails away!
Summary: Flying Whale, an Alajuela 48, is a structurally solid bluewater ketch with modern electrical and communications upgrades, robust sail inventory and serious anchoring and safety gear — suited to ocean passages and adaptable for charter or private cruising. Whether you’re evaluating a purchase, planning a charter, or scouting a platform for long voyages, consider hull integrity, propulsion, electrics and provisioning logistics when budgeting. Platforms like GetBoat.com help connect buyers and renters with vetted options across destinations, marinas and gulfs — supporting yacht and boat sales, charters, and unforgettable sailing, boating and yachting experiences on the sea and ocean with clear listings for every activity from fishing to superyacht-style escapes.
