The Ariel was designed by naval architect Carl Alberg in 1961 for Pearson Yachts of Bristol, Rhode Island.
The Ariel shares many of the amenities of the larger Triton including standing headroom (5'10"), berths for four, sink, ice box, freshwater tank and an enclosed head.
Other factory options included spinnaker gear and the choice of auxiliary power (Universal Atomic 4 inboard or an outboard in a well).
This boat was named "ALMA" in honor of his wife and for many of his later years was sailed out of Marblehead, Ma.
While many Ariels and Commanders are used for casual daysailing, an active one design racing community still operates in San Francisco.