Ericson 32-2 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Ericson 32-2 emerged during a prolific period for Ericson Yachts, a builder that, despite a financially turbulent history, gained a reputation for durable and well-designed fiberglass sailboats. Founded by Handy and Jenkins in the early 1960s, Ericson Yachts became synonymous with the work of Bruce King, who designed the majority of their successful line, including the 32-2, 1, 11]. During its production run from 1969 to 1978, 470 hulls of the 32-2 were built, with hull numbers ranging from 101 to 573. King's designs for Ericson were characterized by balanced sailing characteristics, pleasing lines, and interiors designed for comfort, a philosophy clearly reflected in the 32-2. It's important to note that this iteration, the 32-2, is distinct from the earlier and short-lived Ericson 32 (also known as the Scorpion 32). The model also offered a "Tall Rig" option for those seeking enhanced performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 31 feet and a waterline length of 24 feet, the Ericson 32-2 features a fin keel and spade rudder, a combination known for offering a good balance of directional stability and maneuverability. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.9 suggests a boat that offers moderate performance, capable of moving well in a breeze without being overly sensitive in lighter airs. The ballast to displacement ratio, at an impressive 45.45%, indicates a stiff and stable vessel, well-equipped to stand up to significant wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. With a displacement of 8,800 lbs relative to its waterline length, yielding a displacement-to-length ratio of about 284, the Ericson 32-2 falls into the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, prioritizing comfort and stability over outright racing speed. This robust build contributes to a comfortable motion, often praised by owners. The hull speed for the Ericson 32-2 is calculated at 6.56 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ericson 32-2 offers a functional layout designed for comfortable cruising, featuring a maximum headroom of 6.17 feet. While specific interior layouts could vary between individual boats, including some later hulls with keel-stepped masts, the general arrangement typically includes a V-berth forward, a head, a salon area, a galley, and often quarter berths aft. Owners have described the interior of well-maintained boats as "quite beautiful" and "very clean". Common interior finishes generally feature wood trim blended with fiberglass surfaces, providing a classic and durable aesthetic. Storage is generally ample for a boat of this size, catering to coastal cruising needs.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ericson 32-2 generally hold their vessels in high regard, frequently praising their robust construction and comfortable sailing characteristics. The prevailing sentiment is that most common problems arise from neglect rather than inherent design flaws. However, some owners have noted that the original fuel and water tankage, at 25 and 30 gallons respectively, can be considered small for extended cruising, potentially requiring careful water management on longer trips [3,. A recurring maintenance issue reported by owners is the tendency for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, necessitating re-bedding to ensure watertight integrity. Despite these minor considerations, the active owner community, particularly through resources like EricsonYachts.org, attests to the enduring popularity and practicality of these classic fiberglass cruisers.