The Hunter 32 (Jones) is a sailboat model that entered production in 1982, known for its performance-oriented design and solid construction. Built by the distinguished British yacht builder, Hunter Boats Ltd., and designed by naval architect Steven Jones, this monohull was conceived as a capable cruiser, balancing sailing prowess with comfortable accommodations. Its fractional sloop rig, fin keel, and spade rudder distinguish it as a vessel designed for responsive handling and upwind ability.
Hunter Boats Ltd., founded by Michael Polard in 1969, established a reputation for producing a diverse range of sailing vessels, initially encompassing both agile racers and comfortable family cruisers. The company collaborated with a cadre of talented designers, including Steven Jones, who was responsible for several of their performance-oriented models. The Hunter 32 (Jones), launched in 1982, emerged during an era at Hunter Boats when the focus was still very much on building capable performance yachts, predating the company's significant strategic shift in 1984 towards prioritizing twin-keel cruisers. Steven Jones's design philosophy for the Hunter 32 aimed to create a boat that offered spirited performance while remaining accessible to a broad range of sailors. The solid fiberglass hull and deck construction reflect Hunter's commitment to robust and practical vessels. No significant variations or marks (e.g., MkI vs. MkII) for the Hunter 32 (Jones) were identified through grounded search.
With a length overall of 32.17 feet, a waterline length of 25.17 feet, and a beam of 11.17 feet, the Hunter 32 (Jones) is characterized by its fin keel and spade rudder, which are indicative of a design intended for good maneuverability and pointing ability. Its displacement of 6,000 pounds contributes to a Displacement to Length ratio of 167.98. This ratio suggests that the Hunter 32 (Jones) leans towards the lighter side for a cruiser of its length, implying a design that prioritizes performance and responsiveness in varied conditions. While specific sail area and ballast figures for the Hunter 32 (Jones) were not available to calculate the Sail Area to Displacement or Ballast to Displacement ratios, its fractional sloop rig, coupled with its lighter displacement, would generally suggest a boat that can perform well in lighter airs, while the fin keel and spade rudder setup would offer good control and efficiency when sailing to windward.
Detailed information regarding the typical interior layout and accommodations for the Hunter 32 (Jones) specifically was not readily available through grounded search. General reviews and discussions for similar models from the era suggest Hunter Boats aimed to provide practical and comfortable interiors, often featuring a conventional arrangement with a V-berth forward, a saloon with settees, a galley area, and a navigation station. The emphasis for Hunter during this period was on creating usable spaces suitable for cruising, typically incorporating wood trim and durable fiberglass surfaces, along with adequate storage and ventilation for extended time aboard.