Ocean Alexander 50 Pilothouse MK I — A West Coast Liveaboard Classic

The Ocean Alexander 50 Pilothouse MK I is a quintessential West Coast liveaboard trawler that debuted in 1978. At 50 feet overall, this fiberglass pilothouse yacht combined comfort, seaworthiness and practical cruising features that appealed to full-time cruisers and weekend voyagers alike. Built in Taiwan through 1983, the model remains sought after for its sensible layout, robust construction and the pedigree of its naval architecture.

Design Pedigree and Inspiration

The hull of the Ocean Alexander 50 Pilothouse MK I was penned by Robert Edwin “Ed” Monk Jr., carrying on a family tradition of influential American boat design. His father, Ed Monk Sr., produced some 3,000 designs over a 40-year career starting in 1934, gaining a reputation for vessels that were efficient, harmonious and functional. Ed Monk Jr.’s work on the Ocean Alexander drew on that heritage, producing a yacht with clear trawler influences—flared bow, high topsides and a protective Portuguese bridge—elements commonly associated with rugged, reliable cruising craft inspired by Alaskan trawler lines.

Hull, Performance and Propulsion

Monk designed a semi-planing, hard-chine hull for the MK I to deliver efficient cruising performance. The hull form was intended to provide a comfortable motion and moderate speeds without requiring very large engines. The published cruising range for typical installations aimed for speeds in the 12–14 knot range when powered by the recommended engine options. Standard propulsion packages for the Ocean Alexander 50 included twin Cummins diesels rated at 270 hp each or twin Caterpillar diesels at 320 hp, choices that balanced fuel economy and reliable power for long-distance cruising.

Three-Level Layout and Liveaboard Comforts

The interior arrangement on the Ocean Alexander 50 emphasizes liveaboard practicality. The three-level layout begins with a spacious salon featuring comfortable lounge seating and dining for up to six—ideal for entertaining or daily living aboard. A full, U-shaped galley is located one level up, providing a functional workspace for meal preparation with easy access to the dining area. The raised pilothouse sits above, offering excellent visibility, side doors for cockpit access and a watch berth useful for overnight passages.

Accommodations and Interior Options

The standard owner’s stateroom is amidships and includes a queen-size berth plus a private head with a separate shower, providing a comfortable primary suite for extended cruising. Ocean Alexander offered alternate interior arrangements, allowing buyers to choose one or two guest cabins in addition to the owner’s stateroom, along with a guest head. This flexibility made the 50 Pilothouse attractive to couples planning to live aboard, families, or owners who preferred extra berths for friends and crew.

Practical Features for Cruising

Several design details underline the 50’s suitability for coastal and offshore cruising. The Portuguese bridge and high topsides help shield the pilothouse and forward decks from sea spray and weather, while the raised pilothouse improves sightlines and command of the vessel. The watch berth and side pilothouse doors make standing watch more comfortable and safe, and the U-shaped galley arrangement helps keep cookware and provisions secure underway. Overall, the 50 Pilothouse was conceived as a comfortable, capable platform for serious cruising without excessive complexity.

Enduring Appeal

Although production ended in 1983, the Ocean Alexander 50 Pilothouse MK I continues to attract owners who value classic trawler lines, practical liveaboard arrangements and conservative, proven engineering. Its combination of design by Ed Monk Jr., sensible engine options and a layout focused on comfort and functionality help explain why this model still finds favor on the resale market and among trawler enthusiasts today.

This article originally appeared in the September 2020 issue.