The Downeaster 32 is a popular sailing boat that was designed by Bob Poole and built by Downeast Yachts in the 1970s and 1980s. It is a classic cruising sailboat known for its sturdy construction, comfortable accommodations, and excellent sailing performance.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Downeaster 32:
1. Design: The Downeaster 32 has a traditional full-keel design with a long, deep keel that provides stability and tracking ability. It has a moderate beam and a cutter rig, which allows for versatile sail configurations.
2. Construction: The boat is built with a solid fiberglass hull, making it strong and durable. The deck is also made of fiberglass, and the interior is typically finished with teak woodwork, giving it a warm and classic look.
3. Accommodations: The Downeaster 32 offers comfortable accommodations for cruising. It typically has a spacious V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley with a stove and sink, a navigation station, and a head with a marine toilet and shower.
4. Sailing Performance: The Downeaster 32 is known for its excellent sailing performance, especially in heavy weather. Its full-keel design provides stability and helps it track well, while the cutter rig allows for easy sail handling and balance. It is a capable offshore cruiser and has a reputation for being a safe and seaworthy boat.
5. Size and Dimensions: The Downeaster 32 has an overall length of 32 feet (9.75 meters) and a waterline length of 25 feet (7.62 meters). It has a beam of 10 feet (3.05 meters) and a draft of 5 feet (1.52 meters). The displacement of the boat is around 14,000 pounds (6,350 kilograms).
6. Production and Availability: Downeast Yachts built the Downeaster 32 from the late 1970s to the early 1980s. While they are no longer in production, used Downeaster 32s can still be found on the market, and they have a dedicated following among cruising enthusiasts.
Overall, the Downeaster 32 is a well-regarded cruising sailboat known for its solid construction, comfortable accommodations, and excellent sailing capabilities. It is a popular choice for those looking for a classic and reliable boat for long-distance cruising or liveaboard sailing.
