Seaward 32 RK Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of just over 34 feet and a waterline length nearing 30.5 feet, the Seaward 32 RK offers a blend of comfortable cruising amenities and a design ethos focused on expanding cruising horizons through its ingenious keel mechanism. Its reputation in the sailing community is built on its robust construction and the practical advantages offered by its variable draft, enabling sailors to access a broader range of cruising grounds.

History and Design

The Seaward 32 RK emerged from the design philosophy of Nick Hake, who founded Hake Yachts in 1973 with a vision to create sailboats offering exceptional performance and comfort while adeptly handling shallow coastal waters. The 32 RK, first built in 2006, embodies this core principle, breaking new ground with its innovative retractable keel system designed for versatility. Hake's approach prioritized maximizing shallow-water accessibility without compromising sailing characteristics, a hallmark of the Seaward brand.

The manufacturing of Seaward Yachts, including the 32 RK, has seen some evolution over time. While originally built by Hake Yachts, operations were later consolidated under the Hake Marine umbrella after the acquisition of Island Packet and Blue Jacket in 2016. In 2017, Darrell and Leslie Allen took ownership, moving all Seaward manufacturing to the Island Packet facility in Largo, Florida. Throughout these transitions, Nick Hake has remained involved, contributing his expertise to design and maintaining the brand's distinct characteristics. There is no information to suggest significant variations in the design or production run of the 32 RK, such as MkI or MkII versions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seaward 32 RK is designed to deliver a lively sailing experience, balancing performance with its shallow-draft capabilities. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.65, the boat offers moderate performance, suggesting it will be responsive in light to moderate winds but might require careful sail management in heavier air. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 130 categorizes the 32 RK as a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser, indicating a boat that is relatively agile and can achieve good speeds for its size.

However, the boat's design includes a Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 0.289. This lower ratio, when compared to deep-keeled vessels (where ratios often exceed 0.40), is a direct consequence of its retractable keel design. While allowing for unparalleled shallow-water access, it suggests that the boat may exhibit less initial stiffness than a comparable fixed-keel cruiser, meaning it might heel more readily in a breeze.

Despite this, owners and reviewers often praise the 32 RK's handling characteristics, noting its good balance and responsiveness. The retractable bulb keel allows for a significant draft of 6.42 feet when fully extended, providing enough lateral resistance for upwind performance, while retracting to a mere 1.67 feet for shallow water navigation or trailering. The transom-hung rudder further contributes to its maneuverability. Sailors have found the retractable keel system to be a significant advantage for exploring diverse coastal areas, making areas like the shallow waters of South Florida or the Chesapeake Bay readily accessible.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Seaward 32 RK is designed to provide comfortable accommodations for cruising couples or small families, leveraging its generous 10.5-foot beam. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the layout typically includes a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that can often convert into additional berths, a functional galley, and a head compartment.

Based on owner descriptions and reviews, the interior generally features a warm finish, often incorporating wood trim that contributes to a classic cruising ambiance. Storage is typically well-considered for a boat of this size, with lockers and shelves integrated throughout the cabin. Ventilation is usually provided by opening ports and deck hatches, allowing for airflow in various climates. While not designed for extreme offshore living, the interior prioritizes comfort and practicality for coastal and extended weekend cruising, providing a welcoming space after a day of sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seaward 32 RK consistently laud its primary distinguishing feature: the retractable keel. This system is frequently cited as a major strength, allowing them to explore thin waters and access secluded anchorages that would be impossible for most other sailboats. The ability to significantly reduce the draft from over six feet to less than two feet is considered a game-changer for many, particularly in regions with extensive shallow areas.

The boat's solid construction and overall build quality, a characteristic of Seaward Yachts, are also frequently praised. Owners appreciate the robust feel of the vessel and its capability to handle varying conditions. The simplicity and reliability of the retractable keel mechanism are often highlighted as positive aspects, with some owners noting upgrades to the keel winch for improved convenience.

In terms of potential areas for improvement, some owners have noted that the interior space and headroom, while adequate, might be slightly less than desired when compared to some boats with more voluminous hull designs. However, this is often viewed as a trade-off for the exceptional shallow-draft capabilities and performance-oriented hull shape. Overall, the collective owner sentiment points to the Seaward 32 RK as a highly capable and unique cruiser that successfully delivers on its promise of versatile, shallow-water sailing.