Whistler 32 Cat Ketch Information, Review, Specs

Emerging from a builder renowned for producing yachts of the "pinnacle of marine engineering and traditional Maine boatbuilding artistry," the Whistler 32 reflects Able Marine's dedication to durable construction and refined finishes.

The Able Whistler 32 Cat Ketch first entered production in 1980, a period during which Able Marine, founded by master boat builder Crozer Fox, was solidifying its reputation for high-quality, custom and semi-custom yachts. Designer Chuck Paine conceptualized the Whistler 32 as a versatile keel-centerboarder, addressing the traditional challenge of leakage around wooden centerboards with new materials. Paine’s designs, known for their quality, were often sought by builders like Able Marine who shared a commitment to superior craftsmanship.

A notable aspect of the Whistler 32's initial offering was its unstayed wishbone cat-ketch rig, a configuration promoted by Garry Hoyt for its ease of handling. This innovative rig contributed to the boat's accessibility and sailing characteristics. Later in its production run, the Whistler 32 was also offered with a more conventional cutter rig and was subsequently renamed the Able 32, showcasing variations aimed at different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Able Whistler 32 Cat Ketch, with a length overall of just over 32 feet and a waterline of nearly 26 feet, presents a balanced profile designed for both comfort and capability. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.8 suggests decent performance in a variety of wind conditions, leaning towards solid performance in average breezes rather than being an extreme light-air specialist. A robust ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 40% (39.7%) indicates a stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to more wind and offering a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Further underscoring its traditional cruising credentials, the Whistler 32 boasts a displacement-to-length ratio of around 309, placing it firmly in the category of a heavier, more substantial cruiser. This heavy displacement, combined with the inherent stability of its design, contributes to its "excellent seakeeping" characteristics, making it a reliable choice for various conditions. The keel/centerboard hull type further enhances its versatility, allowing for a minimum draft of 3.79 feet for access to shallower anchorages and a maximum draft of 7.71 feet for improved upwind performance. Anecdotal accounts often highlight the cat-ketch rig as being "a lot easier to" manage, simplifying sail handling for cruisers.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed layouts vary, the Able Whistler 32 was designed to offer generous interior volume, with a slightly more spacious hull design that allowed for a cabin described as "more spacy than 62% of all other designs" in its class. Search Result 8, 8 The interior adheres to a "standard" layout for sailboats of its size, providing functional and comfortable living spaces below deck. Owners have noted traditional finishing details such as interior varnish and teak flooring, suggesting a classic and warm aesthetic typical of Maine-built yachts of the era. This spaciousness would typically translate to comfortable V-berths forward, a salon with seating and a dining area, a functional galley, and a head compartment, providing practical amenities for cruising enthusiasts.