Dickerson 32 Information, Review, Specs

The Dickerson 32 began its production run in 1959, designed by Ted E. Graves. It was a product of the early era of Dickerson Boatbuilders, when founder Bill Dickerson focused on crafting rugged boats of "real value" from his backyard in Cambridge, Maryland., 5] The design embraced traditional Chesapeake Bay construction techniques, featuring a wood-planked, single-chine (often referred to as hard-chine) hull and a full keel. 3, 4, Builder Article This construction method, combined with a masthead ketch rig, aligned with Dickerson's philosophy of creating dependable and affordable sailing vessels. While Dickerson Boatbuilders later transitioned to fiberglass construction for some models, the Dickerson 32 remained a testament to its wooden heritage. No significant variations or Mark series designations for the Dickerson 32 were identified during its production period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dickerson 32, with its traditional full keel and ketch rig, offers a sailing experience characterized by stability and comfortable motion, particularly when sailing downwind or on a broad reach. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.0 suggests a moderate performer; she will likely benefit from a decent breeze to get moving efficiently but is not designed as a light-air speed demon. With a ballast to displacement ratio of 37.5%, the Dickerson 32 exhibits a respectable level of stability, allowing it to stand up to a fair amount of wind with confidence. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 192 indicates that for its length, the Dickerson 32 is on the lighter side, suggesting a design that, while traditional in construction, aimed for reasonable sailing characteristics for a family cruiser of its era. Owners have anecdotally described the boat as sailing "like a dream," appreciating its overall balance and predictable behavior on the water. The full keel, while contributing to excellent directional stability and a robust feel in a seaway, might lead to a larger turning radius and require more planning in tight marina maneuvers.

Accommodations and Layout

Specific detailed interior layouts for the Dickerson 32 are not widely documented, but it aligns with Bill Dickerson's early emphasis on "simple, well-built craft" designed for family cruising. Given its wooden construction, the interior would typically feature a warm and classic aesthetic with ample use of wood trim and joinery. Expect a functional arrangement characteristic of cruisers from the late 1950s and early 1960s, likely including a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a compact galley, and a marine head. While precise headroom figures are not available, owners of Dickerson boats generally appreciate the practical and robust nature of the interiors, often prioritizing durability and liveability over elaborate modern amenities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Dickerson sailboats, including the 32, often express a deep affection for their vessels, drawn to their "rugged" construction and the enduring "real value" they represent. The Dickerson Owners Association (DOA) serves as a vibrant community, fostering camaraderie and allowing owners to share experiences and knowledge, underscoring the brand's lasting appeal. 8, 14, Builder Article This dedicated community is a testament to the build quality and enduring charm of these classic wooden boats. While maintaining an older wooden vessel like the Dickerson 32 can involve considerable effort, as noted by an owner who remarked on doing "a lot of work to get her back in the water," the sentiment often shared is that the effort is well worth it, culminating in a boat that "sails like a dream" and provides immense satisfaction. Common issues, where they arise in boats of this vintage, often relate to the natural aging of wooden structures and components, such as the need for re-bedding deck hardware or addressing potential rot, rather than inherent design flaws.