Downeaster 32 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Downeaster 32 was deeply rooted in Robert Poole's vision for building sturdy, reliable cruising vessels, a philosophy carried over from his prior work in the marine industry. Launched in 1975, the Downeaster 32, designed by Poole himself, quickly solidified the company's reputation for producing seaworthy boats. Even in the 1970s, the Downeaster 32 evoked a sense of nostalgia and tradition, largely due to its classic lines and integral long keel. This design ethos was in line with Down East Yachts' overall identity, which drew inspiration from the durable and sea-kindly "Downeast" style of boats, emphasizing seaworthiness and stability for serious cruisers. The boat features a cutter rig, which breaks the sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, a common choice for offshore vessels of its era. While the hull length overall is 32 feet, the inclusion of a bowsprit extends its total length to 35.5 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Downeaster 32's sailing characteristics are a direct reflection of its heavy-displacement, full-keel design. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 14.54, the boat is not a light-air flyer, but rather a powerful vessel that benefits from a consistent breeze. Its ballast to displacement ratio of around 32.4% combined with its long keel contributes significantly to its inherent stability and comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of over 440 indicates a very heavy boat for its waterline, translating to exceptional comfort in rough conditions.

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Downeaster 32 as a "rugged" and "easy to sail" vessel that performs "exceptionally well" on all points of sail once powered up. Its substantial build allows it to stand up to strong winds, providing a secure and stable platform for extended voyages. The original Farymann 24hp diesels were often considered somewhat underpowered, leading many owners to upgrade to more powerful engines, such as 27hp Yanmars, to enhance motoring performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Downeaster 32 is generally considered generous for a boat of its size, designed to offer comfort for long-range cruising. While specific headroom details are not widely documented, the overall impression is one of spaciousness. The typical layout for a cruiser of this size and era would feature a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head. The main salon often includes opposing settees that can convert into berths, sometimes offering up to three salon berths, theoretically allowing the boat to sleep six. A functional galley area and a navigation station would typically complete the main cabin layout, often with quarter berths aft. The interior finish, consistent with Down East Yachts' reputation for solid construction, typically features durable materials, emphasizing practicality and longevity over flashy aesthetics, suitable for extended periods aboard. Owners often note the internal space is accommodating even for taller sailors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Downeaster 32 consistently commend its robust build quality and its comfortable, stable motion, particularly in challenging sea states. The boat has proven its capability over countless miles, with many owners embarking on extensive voyages, praising its seaworthiness and ease of handling. Its full keel provides excellent directional stability, making for a steady ride on long passages.

However, some common issues have been noted by the ownership community. A frequently reported problem is deck delamination, often accompanied by deck leaks, which are typically attributed to through-deck fittings that have lost their original seals over time. While these issues require attention, they are generally manageable and reflect the age of these classic fiberglass vessels. Despite these potential maintenance items, the Downeaster 32 maintains a dedicated following among cruisers who value its enduring qualities as a dependable, offshore-capable yacht.