1984 Palmer Johnson Alden 78

Sirocco is an 78-foot aluminum ketch built by Palmer Johnson in 1984, designed for extended ocean cruising. Her centerboard design draws just 7 feet 2 inches with the board retracted, allowing access to shallow harbors typically closed to vessels of her size; deployed, the board extends to 14 feet. The single 210-horsepower Caterpillar diesel engine delivers a comfortable 10-knot cruising speed, while fuel capacity of 1,200 gallons and fresh water capacity of 1,400 gallons support long passages across open water.

The accommodations include four cabins and four heads, providing comfortable berths for family and guests. The boat has been maintained and upgraded throughout her service life, with new deck paint and hull paint applied in 2021. Recent equipment additions include a Garmin touch-screen navigation system with HD radar and integrated wind instruments for modern, reliable passage-making.