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does everybody have am easily removable plug that fits securely in the outboard well when not in use? Im a new owner, of an inboard that also has the well, and just realized the "plug" comes out easily with the removal of two thumb screws. I thought it was glassed. Just wanted to know if that is a standard bit, or if I got lucky? Certainly is a great option in my opinion!

just in case anybody know the boat: Bristol 27 sailboat specs

I could do a few things, but in the end there is always a compromise....I've already cut a new "S" tiller handle to help clear knees in comfort. Haven;t tried it yet, but will this spring. Most of my sailing is solo or with just one other passenger the smaller cockpit of the bristol is still workable, but the ariel really feels so much more comfortable with the bridgedeck and added length, plus has plenty of room for sharing the fun. Its a 64, and there is that artistic aspect of the design and build too. Really, though, while I could do some modifications I try to stick with the fact that the guy that designed the boats usually builds in the best compromises. Certainly there's  an exception, but I've got 2 boats to choose from (poor me) that are amazing, each with its highlights and I'm just trying to finally make the dreaded decision.
The ariel is in fact almost the exact hull as the b27. In the same manner that the ariel is a "baby triton", the bristol is a baby Alberg30. the craftsmanship and finishing is almost exactly the same too, being built in the same area by the same guys and designer. I'm not sure about factory options, but the ariel has a much simpler, more traditional interior design and layout. The head in the vberth seems to me to be the biggest downside, but the enclosed head of the bristol isn't all that great. While built well, it is tiny. Not the most comfortable place to "read the paper"! the vberth has plenty of room, and with the door closed it is certainly private. With others aboard its less so.....the cabin is roughly the same size with the lack of enclosed head as the bristols, but the bristol has a dinette layout, with the starboard having sink, huge icebox, nice stove and plenty of storage, as well as a full size quarter berth which is a huge asset in my opinion. Makes the boat less crowd worthy but more "livable". anyway, I'm all ears to hear about how you all feel about your boats, and if you have insight in my dilemma let me know.

yah, early ones had one, but later models extended the cabin roof and aft bulkhead to the aft edge of bridge-deck. Mine also has the factory dinette layout. one could add a bridge-deck simply, but the cockpit would be so tiny at that point three people would be a stretch. the Ariel cockpit is so much nicer.

thankfully lots of info on the bristols. It's 100% factory cockpit, but no bridgedeck (mines a '75, not sure when they changed cockpit design. allowed for more interior and the companionway is nice, but takes the seaworthiness away. leaving a board in helps that, but isn't a terrific fix... I've checked out the bristol community for some time. Figured I'd check this side out. I know some ariels have made similar voyages I intend with happy success, but I've yet to find a person in the know who doesn't support the bristol. Lots of people speak highly.

yes, this is definitely the place with the most info. There are a few other boats around here (newbern, oriental, beaufort) but no active fleet per say. Passing the boat on was the original plan, and shouldn't be hard as its not a basket case, but I'm seriously entertaining keeping it. Has more options to make it "MY" boat, but is (mostly) all original, complete, and in good shape. Sure, its not factory new, but it has aged gracefully, and what repairs are needed are common and easy. The bridgedeck and cockpit are amazing, much more user friendly than the bristol... I haven't advertised anywhere, as I'm still making up my mind. I was so pissed at myself losing out on the alberg, and also had a bit of buyers remorse with the bristol. But, I have to make a decision. Hoping someone has experience with both boats, and can highlight some pros/cons/characteristics that I may not have considered. If anybody might be interested in either boat or might know someone that may be let them know. Could help with my dilemma.....

I guess I should mention that I'm not looking for a full time liveaboard, but sail/cruise alot and eventually will be heading down island. So I need a safe, fun performer for extended short trips and the occasional short bluewater crossing. Hence the affinity for alberg designs. Besides, I just like them!

hello all,

I'm new here and just posted a few exterior pics of my "new" Ariel. (#242 1964). I'm hoping to find a little info and history on the boat. I'm also hoping for you all to set me straight......
I am restoring a bristol 27. I've been on the quest for a suitable smaller alberg design for quite a few years, and this year I almost had my hands on a beautiful alberg30. I waited just days too long and lost it. I immediately found the bristol, and though I never really considered the 27 (for stupid reasons really, I just hate the deck layout and appearance) before, I purchased it. Is a terrific boat, just ugly, and fits my needs perfectly. So, as I'm upgrading/restoring I find this Ariel and jumped on it as a parts boat, as the price was insane. Turns out the Ariel is just in too good condition, and I'm really having a slight affair with it. While the bristol definitely gets my vote for interior layout and comfort, there is simply something about the ariel that I prefer.....basically, decks down they are the same boat. performance is the same, and the ariel takes it for roomy cockpit. Anyway, I only need one boat so one of them has to go. I am currently waiting for spring to haul the bristol and paint/bottom job. I've been working on the ariel and before I go too far on both/either I wanted to find some info and hear from some owners. Any insight? What would you do?

BTW....the ariel is an inboard model, but also has the outboard well structure in the lazerette, just not cut out. It has a westerbeke diesel that I wanted, as I have the exact engine in the bristol. the sails are in great condition, it has all brand new interior cushions, working head, interior complete and in good original condition.Someone took care of this boat.

Hello,

heres a few pics of my recent acquisition. #242, originally from Emerald Isle, NC. I'll take more pics next time I remember a camera. Will be posting some questions/info soon (when I figure out the appropriate place for that!). If anyone knows the boat let me know.....