The Westsail 32 is a popular cruising sailboat that was designed by William Crealock and built by Westsail Corporation in the 1970s. It is known for its sturdy construction, seaworthiness, and traditional design.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Westsail 32:
1. Construction: The Westsail 32 is a full-keel, heavy displacement sailboat. It is built with a solid fiberglass hull, making it strong and durable for offshore sailing.
2. Design: The boat features a traditional double-ended design, with a canoe stern and a long overhang. This design is known for its ability to handle rough seas and provide a comfortable motion at sea.
3. Size: The Westsail 32 has an overall length of 32 feet (9.75 meters) and a beam of 11 feet (3.35 meters). It has a draft of 5 feet (1.52 meters), which allows it to access shallow anchorages while still providing stability.
4. Interior: The interior of the Westsail 32 is designed for comfortable cruising. It typically features a spacious main salon, a galley with a stove and sink, a navigation station, a head (bathroom), and a V-berth in the forward cabin. Some models may have additional berths or a separate aft cabin.
5. Sailing Performance: The Westsail 32 is not known for its speed, but rather for its ability to handle heavy weather and long-distance cruising. It has a cutter rig, which means it has two headsails (a jib and a staysail) in addition to the mainsail. This rig allows for easy sail handling and versatility in different wind conditions.
6. Seaworthiness: The Westsail 32 is highly regarded for its seaworthiness. Its heavy displacement and full keel provide stability and help it track well in rough seas. Many Westsail 32 owners have completed long ocean passages and circumnavigations in this boat.
7. Production: The Westsail 32 was produced by Westsail Corporation from the early 1970s until the late 1980s. During this time, over 800 boats were built, making it one of the most successful production sailboats of its size.
Overall, the Westsail 32 is a classic cruising sailboat that is loved by many sailors for its strength, comfort, and ability to handle offshore conditions. It is often considered a "bluewater" boat, suitable for long-distance voyages and extended cruising.
