Westsail 32

Westsail 32 Boat: Ultimate Guide to Features and Performance

The Westsail 32 is a legendary bluewater cruising sailboat that has captured the hearts of many sailors around the world. Built between 1971 and 1980, the Westsail 32 gained a reputation for its sturdy construction and ability to handle long passages at sea. With its long waterline and impressive load carrying capabilities, this vessel is known for being an excellent choice for extended cruising.

The design of the Westsail 32 owes its origins to the earlier Kendall 32, with notable adaptations made for improved performance and comfort. The addition of a trunk cabin and other design tweaks made it more suited for serious offshore sailing. Sailors appreciate its rugged build, which provides confidence in various sea conditions, making it a reliable companion for long voyages.

Another key feature of the Westsail 32 is its interior layout, designed to maximize space and comfort for extended living aboard. The cabin is well-appointed with practical amenities, ensuring a comfortable experience whether at anchor or underway. Sailors who own a Westsail 32 often become part of a dedicated community, sharing tips and stories of their adventures on this capable vessel.

Key Takeaways

• The Westsail 32 is known for its exceptional bluewater capabilities.
• It features a rugged build and comfortable interior suitable for long voyages.
• The design is an adaptation of the earlier Kendall 32, with enhancements for better performance.

Design and History

The Westsail 32 is a well-known sailboat celebrated for its seaworthiness and long history. Its design roots trace back to several influential naval architects and various important design elements over time.

Origins and Designer

The Westsail 32 has its origins in the designs of William Atkin and Colin Archer.

Archer, a Norwegian naval architect, developed double-ended pilot and rescue boats for the rough North Sea. Atkin later adapted Archer's designs for smaller vessels. In the late 1960s, Larry Kendall wanted a robust cruising sailboat, and he collaborated with William Crealock for the design. Crealock modified the original Atkin design to create the Kendall 32, the precursor to the Westsail 32.

Westsail 32 Evolution

The Westsail 32 was first introduced in 1971 by the Westsail Corporation. It was a modification of the Kendall 32, with a trunk cabin added to improve interior space.

The boat was a heavy-displacement, offshore cruiser known for its stability and durability. Early models were also available as kits, allowing owners to build their own boats. Of the 834 hulls produced, many were sold as these kits. The design stayed true to Crealock's vision, emphasizing safety and performance in harsh conditions.

Impact on Cruising

The Westsail 32 had a significant impact on the cruising community. Due to its affordable price and reliable construction, it became a favorite among long-distance sailors.

The boat's robust build and seaworthiness made it popular for ocean crossings and extended voyages. Many sailors admired the Westsail 32 for its ability to handle adverse weather conditions. Its introduction paved the way for other heavy-displacement cruisers and influenced future sailboat designs. The Westsail 32 remains a symbol of the 1970s cruising revolution and continues to be respected in the sailing world.

Specifications and Dimensions

The Westsail 32 is a highly regarded sailboat known for its robust design, spacious interior, and excellent performance in bluewater cruising. Below are the key specifications and dimensions covering the hull, rigging, sails, engine, and performance.

Hull Specifications

The Westsail 32 has a Length Overall (LOA) of approximately 39' 11" including the bowsprit. The Length on Deck (LOD) is 32', and the Length at Waterline (LWL) is 27' 6". It has a beam of 11', making it quite wide for its length, which contributes to its stability.

The draft is 5', allowing it to navigate relatively shallow waters while still maintaining good performance in deeper seas. The displacement is approximately 19,500 lbs, with a ballast of around 7,000 lbs. This makes the Westsail 32 a heavy boat, which helps in offshore conditions. Constructed mainly from fiberglass, it is designed to handle the rigors of long-distance sailing.

Rigging and Sails

The Westsail 32 features a cutter rig, known for its versatility and efficiency. The total sail area is 629 sq ft. This sail area, combined with the boat’s design, allows for good sailing performance even in adverse conditions.

The mast height from the waterline is about 48 feet, giving it ample clearance under most bridges. The cutter rig usually consists of a main sail, a staysail, and a jib, providing a flexible sail plan that can be adjusted according to wind conditions. The rigging is often robust and overbuilt, contributing to the boat's reputation for being a solid and safe choice for ocean cruising.

Engine and Performance

The engine on the Westsail 32 is typically a Volvo Penta MD2B diesel engine, providing around 25 HP. This is enough power for maneuvering in and out of harbors and motoring when necessary. Diesel engines are preferred for their reliability and efficiency in marine environments.

The fuel capacity is relatively small at about 20 gallons, but this is sufficient given the boat’s primary function as a sailboat. The water capacity also tends to be on the lower side, emphasizing the need for careful management on long voyages. With its displacement hull and a hull speed of roughly 7 knots, the Westsail 32 offers a balance of speed and safety.

These specifications make the Westsail 32 a popular choice among sailors looking for a dependable and sturdy boat for long journeys.

Construction Details

The Westsail 32 is known for its robust construction, utilizing high-quality materials and methods that ensure durability and performance. Each aspect of the boat, from the hull to the interior, reflects a commitment to craftsmanship.

Hull and Deck Construction

The hull of the Westsail 32 is made from hand-laid fiberglass, using up to 12 layers for added strength. This construction method, combined with the use of polyester resin, results in a hull that is typically about 3/4 inch thick near the topsides.

The decks are similarly built from durable fiberglass, ensuring that they can withstand harsh marine conditions. The boat's heavyweight nature contributes to its stability and safety, especially in rough seas. This makes the Westsail 32 a favored choice for long-distance voyaging.

Keel and Ballast

The keel of the Westsail 32 is integral to its design, featuring a full keel that enhances stability and handling. The ballast is made from either cast lead or a mixture of lead and steel punchings, providing the necessary weight to keep the boat upright and balanced.

The keel cavity is filled precisely to ensure the optimal distribution of weight. This allows the sailboat to maintain its course effectively, even in challenging conditions. The keel's design contributes to the boat's excellent righting capability if capsized.

Interior Build

Inside, the Westsail 32 is built to offer both comfort and practicality. The interior uses high-quality woods and materials, with joinery that reflects fine craftsmanship. The layout is designed to maximize space, providing ample storage and living areas.

The interior construction includes a sturdy framework that supports the hull and deck, ensuring the boat's structural integrity. This careful attention to detail in the interior build makes the Westsail 32 not only durable but also a comfortable home at sea.

Overall, the construction details of the Westsail 32 make it a reliable and well-respected sailboat in the cruising community. Its solid build and thoughtful design elements ensure a vessel capable of handling a variety of sailing adventures.

Interior and Accommodations

The Westsail 32 offers a modest but functional interior layout, boasting practical living quarters and a well-designed galley for extended cruising.

Living Quarters

The living quarters of the Westsail 32 are thoughtfully designed to maximize space and comfort. The forward V-Berth offers sleeping accommodations for two, providing a cozy and private space. Additional sleeping spaces include a quarter berth and settees that can convert into sleeping areas if needed.

Headroom throughout the boat is ample, allowing most people to stand comfortably. The interior was often left to be finished by the owner, which means that no two boats are exactly alike. This gives each vessel a unique touch while maintaining the practical layout sailors expect from a bluewater cruiser.

Galley and Dining

The galley in the Westsail 32 is compact yet very functional. It typically features a U-shaped design with a sink and stove, allowing for efficient meal preparation while at sea. Storage areas are well-thought-out, maximizing the limited space.

Adjacent to the galley is the dinette, which offers seating for four. This area can be converted into an additional berth if necessary. The placement of the galley and dinette ensures that meals can be prepared and enjoyed in close proximity, making the most of the available space.

The combination of a practical galley and a versatile dining area makes the Westsail 32 suitable for long voyages.

Seaworthiness and Performance

The Westsail 32 is known for its exceptional seaworthiness and dependable performance. It is a favored choice for sailors seeking a robust vessel capable of handling long-distance voyages.

Offshore Capabilities

The Westsail 32 is built to withstand harsh offshore conditions. Its heavy displacement hull and deep draft of 5 feet provide stability in rough seas. The design, inspired by traditional double-ended boats, offers strong resistance to capsize, making it a reliable option for bluewater sailing.

The boat's fiberglass construction adds durability and longevity, ensuring it can endure the stresses of long-term cruising. Additionally, the high freeboard keeps the deck dry, reducing the chances of waves washing over the boat.

Sailors appreciate the Westsail 32’s ability to handle heavy weather. Bill Crealock, the designer, focused on creating a boat that could instill confidence during challenging offshore passages. The cutter rig, with its multiple headsails, allows for flexible sail combinations to suit varying wind conditions.

Handling and Maneuverability

Though not the fastest, the Westsail 32 is easy to handle, especially in heavy seas. Its moderate keel and balanced sail plan contribute to a comfortable, if somewhat slow, sail. The sturdy rigging and robust build make it forgiving for less experienced sailors.

The steering is balanced, providing a steady course without requiring constant adjustments. In tight marinas or crowded anchorages, its maneuverability can be a bit challenging due to its heavy displacement and deep draft. However, with practice, most owners find it manageable.

The double-ended design reduces pitch in waves, creating a smoother sailing experience. This feature, combined with the boat’s heavy displacement, ensures that the crew remains comfortable and safe, even during extended voyages.

Rigging and Sail Handling

The Westsail 32 is known for its sturdy rigging and versatile sail handling. It offers reliable performance for long voyages.

Mast and Boom Configuration

The Westsail 32 typically features a cutter rig with a single mast and two headsails. The mast, often stepped on the deck, provides structural integrity. A cruising boom is common, simplifying sail handling. The sturdy boomkin supports the backstay and main boom, helping distribute rigging loads. This setup is robust, making it ideal for extended cruising.

Sail Types and Uses

Sail types include the mainsail, jib, staysail, and genoa. The mainsail is attached to the mast and boom, used for primary propulsion. The jib and staysail, both headsails, are deployed for stability and speed. A genoa is often added for extra sail area and improved performance in lighter winds. Each sail serves a specific purpose, ensuring adaptability to various sea conditions.

Rigging Systems and Materials

The rigging of the Westsail 32 involves both standing and running rigging. Standing rigging includes stainless steel wires supporting the mast, such as shrouds and stays. Running rigging consists of ropes and lines for sail adjustment. Common materials include high-grade stainless steel for durability. Modern synthetic lines may also be used for less weight and better performance. This combination ensures reliability and ease of handling in different sailing scenarios.

Ownership and Community

The Westsail 32 has a strong, supportive community of owners and enthusiasts. The Westsail Owners Association plays a big role in bringing people together and providing valuable resources.

Westsail Owners Association

The Westsail Owners Association (WOA) is a pivotal part of the Westsail 32 community. Founded to support the owners of these boats, the WOA provides forums, resources, and events for networking and knowledge-sharing.

The association is based in the USA and boasts over 900 members. They host various gatherings and events where enthusiasts share tips and stories. The WOA website offers detailed records, parts lists, and repair manuals, making it an invaluable resource for any Westsail 32 owner.

Members also have access to discounts on gear and services from select partners. This ensures that owners can maintain their boats in top condition without undue financial strain.

Buying a Westsail 32

Purchasing a Westsail 32 involves several steps. Firstly, prospective buyers should look for boats listed through reliable sources like Boats Group. Researching the type, make, builder, and year of manufacture is critical. A key identifier is the HIN number, showing whether it's a factory build (WSS) or a kit boat (WSSK).

One should also consider the currency conversion rate if buying from overseas, as many boats are sold in different coastal regions from California to Mexico.

Checking the boat's condition, especially deck and cockpit areas, is vital for a sound financial transaction. Potential buyers are encouraged to join the Westsail Owners Association early to gain insights and find the best deals.

Financial institutions can assist with transactions, ensuring secure and transparent processes. Often, the WOA has listings and offers advice for new buyers, helping them navigate the market effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Westsail 32 sailboat is known for its durability and value, but potential buyers often have questions about common issues, specifications, performance, purchasing considerations, market price, and design features.

What are the common issues faced by owners of the Westsail 32?

Owners of the Westsail 32 often face issues with the mast and rigging due to the boat's age and heavy displacement. Water intrusion can be a problem around deck fittings and through-hull fittings, especially if not properly maintained.

What are the specifications of a Westsail 32 sailboat?

The Westsail 32 typically has a length of 32 feet, a beam of 11 feet, and a draft of about 5 feet. It usually measures around 20,000 pounds in displacement, which is heavy for its size. The sailboat is equipped with a 48Vdc x 400Ah AGM or LiFePO4 battery.

How does the performance of the Westsail 32 compare to similar boats?

Compared to other boats in its class, the Westsail 32 is slower due to its heavy displacement. It offers steady performance in blue water conditions, making it suitable for long-distance cruising. It doesn't excel in light winds but handles rough seas well.

What should be considered when purchasing a used Westsail 32?

When purchasing a used Westsail 32, check the condition of the hull, mast, and rigging. Inspect for signs of water damage and ensure all through-hull fittings are secure. Verify whether it was a factory build or a kit, as this can affect the quality of construction.

What is the average market price for a Westsail 32?

The average market price for a Westsail 32 ranges from $25,000 to $50,000, depending on its condition, age, and outfitting. Boats in better condition or with more modern equipment tend to be on the higher end of this range.

What are the notable design features of the Westsail 32?

The Westsail 32 features a robust, heavy-displacement hull designed for ocean crossings. It has a cutter rig, full keel, and a roomy interior with ample storage. The design allows for carrying a large amount of cruising gear and supplies, making it popular for long voyages.