Cruisers

1984 Alden Palmer Johnson 78

“SIROCCO”

Somerset, Massachusetts, United States

$449,000

Specifications

Year

1984

Length

78'

Beam

18'

Draft

14'

Cabins

Heads

Cruise Speed

10 kts

Hull

Aluminum

Fuel Type

Diesel

Engines

Make	Model	Power	Fuel	Year	Hours
Caterpillar	3208N	— HP	Diesel	—	—

Broker Overview

The 1984 Alden Palmer Johnson 78 'SIROCCO' represents a unique opportunity for a buyer seeking a capable, long-range cruising ketch with a proven pedigree. Built with a robust aluminum hull, this vessel offers a combination of performance and durability that is increasingly rare in today's market. Her standout feature is the centerboard configuration, allowing for a draft ranging from 7'2" to 14', which significantly expands cruising grounds and access to shallower anchorages often inaccessible to yachts of this size. With substantial fuel (1200 gallons) and water (1400 gallons) capacities, SIROCCO is genuinely equipped for extended voyages, supported by a reliable Caterpillar 3208N engine providing a comfortable 10-knot cruising speed. Recent upgrades, including new deck and hull paint in 2021, coupled with a modern Garmin navigation suite, indicate an owner who has maintained the vessel proactively. While an older yacht, her construction quality and thoughtful design make her a compelling option for those prioritizing offshore capability and classic yacht aesthetics over modern production boat amenities. This is a serious offering for a buyer ready to embark on substantial cruising.

Why This Boat Stands Out

Robust aluminum hull construction for exceptional durability and offshore safety.

Versatile centerboard design (7'2" to 14' draft) for expanded cruising access.

Significant fuel and water capacities enabling true long-range, self-sufficient cruising.

Recent cosmetic and navigation upgrades, including 2021 hull and deck paint.

Proven Alden Palmer Johnson design offering classic ketch aesthetics and sailing performance.

Ideal For

Long-Range CruisingWorld CruisingLiveaboardOffshore SailingCoastal Exploration

Expert Review

The Alden Palmer Johnson 78 is a serious cruising yacht, built to a high standard with an aluminum hull, which provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance when properly maintained. Her ketch rig offers versatile sail plans for varying conditions, and the centerboard is a distinct advantage for exploring shallow waters without compromising upwind performance. The single Caterpillar 3208N is a reliable, albeit older, workhorse; expect reasonable fuel consumption at hull speed. Prospective buyers should focus their survey on the integrity of the aluminum hull, particularly around through-hulls and keel areas, and a thorough inspection of the centerboard mechanism. The age of the vessel means systems like plumbing, wiring, and standing rigging will require close scrutiny, regardless of stated upgrades. Comparables might include other custom aluminum or steel cruising yachts from the same era, such as certain Van de Stadt or Sparkman & Stephens designs, though few offer this specific combination of size and centerboard versatility. Value for money is strong for a yacht of this caliber, provided the core structure and major systems are sound.

Owner Sentiment

Very Good

Owners of Alden Palmer Johnson yachts typically praise their robust construction and exceptional offshore capabilities, often highlighting their comfortable motion at sea.

Strengths

Exceptional build quality and robust aluminum hull.Comfortable and stable motion in a seaway.Genuine long-range cruising capabilities.Versatile centerboard allows access to shallow anchorages.Classic, timeless aesthetics.

Considerations

Older systems may require ongoing maintenance or upgrades.Aluminum hull requires specific anti-fouling and corrosion management.Single engine limits redundancy for offshore passages.

Full Listing Description

SIROCCO is an elegant, high-performance, long-range cruising ketch. Her centerboard configuration (7'-2" with board up, 14' with board down) permits access to ports not usually open to so large a vessel. Her 1200 gals. of fuel and 1400 gals. of water gives her a ‘go-anywhere’ cruising range, and her Caterpillar diesel gives her a comfortable 10 kt cruising speed. She has been continually upgraded both cosmetically and mechanically, including new deck paint (2021), hull paint (2021) and Garmin touch-screen chart system with HD radar and wind instruments. She is ready to cruise the world’s oceans in comfort and speed. Seriously for sale.

Yacht Access is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Wellington Yacht Partners. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel

Notable Upgrades

Disclaimer: This listing is provided through cooperative brokerage via the IYBA MLS. The listing broker is Wellington Yacht Partners (Wellington Yacht Partners). Yacht Access is acting as a buyer's broker and can assist you with this purchase.