Irwin 32 Citation Information, Review, Specs

Ted Irwin's designs, including the Citation series, often sought to combine respectable sailing characteristics with practical and comfortable accommodations, a hallmark of Irwin Yachts' broader philosophy. The company, though facing corporate challenges throughout its history, consistently delivered a wide array of fiberglass boats known for their functional appeal and value in the cruising market.

History and Design

The Irwin 32 Citation began production in 1985, emerging from a lineage of designs by Ted Irwin, who started building boats in his backyard at the age of 15 and officially established Irwin Yacht and Marine Corporation in 1966. Irwin Yachts became one of the largest sailboat producers in the United States, utilizing fiberglass construction, which was standard in the industry during its operational years, before ceasing operations in 1992.

Ted Irwin's design philosophy was diverse, catering to both racing and cruising interests. While the "Citation" models, including the 32, were part of a series that generally aimed for a sportier feel, they still upheld the Irwin tradition of practical and livable boats. The Irwin 32 Citation, specifically, followed previous 32-foot designs from Irwin, refining the concept for its era. There were variations in draft, with a standard maximum draft of 6.0 feet and an available shoal draft option of 4.0 feet, offering flexibility for different cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 32 Citation exhibits sailing characteristics that suggest a balance between performance and stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 17.29, she indicates a good ability to perform in lighter winds without being overly tender. Her ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 0.438 points to a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 245 positions the Irwin 32 Citation as a moderate displacement cruiser – not a lightweight racer, but also not an overly heavy, traditional displacement vessel.

Owners frequently praise the Irwin 32 Citation for its balanced helm and comfortable motion through rough waters, often noting that she sails like a larger boat. This suggests a forgiving nature, making her a suitable choice for both experienced sailors and those looking for a stable platform to gain confidence offshore. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration contribute to good maneuverability and responsiveness.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data for the Irwin 32 Citation is not consistently published, the design generally focuses on maximizing interior volume and comfort, typical of Irwin's cruising philosophy. The boat is equipped with a fuel capacity of 30 gallons and a water capacity of 30 gallons, providing reasonable autonomy for coastal cruising.

Typical interior layouts for sailboats of this size and era often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, and a private head compartment. Many Irwin models emphasize practical and livable spaces, often featuring warm wood trim and functional fiberglass surfaces. Based on owner discussions, the interior layout of the Citation 32 is generally considered identical to other Irwin 32 models of the same period, suggesting a standard arrangement designed for cruising comfort. Storage is usually ample for extended trips, and ventilation would typically rely on deck hatches and opening ports.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Irwin 32 Citation generally hold a positive view of their vessels, frequently commending their solid construction and comfortable sailing characteristics. Many appreciate the boat's ability to handle various conditions, often describing it as well-balanced and providing a smooth ride. The boat is often considered spacious for its size, with some owners finding it large enough for liveaboard purposes.

However, common maintenance considerations, typical of boats from this vintage, are occasionally mentioned. While not specific to the Citation 32 in all instances, some Irwin models, including other boats in the Citation series, have experienced issues with the deck-to-hull joint developing leaks, which can be challenging to repair. Other reported issues on Irwin 32s (not necessarily Citation models specifically) can include concerns about the original compression post support. Despite these potential maintenance items, the active online community of Irwin owners and the continued appeal of these boats on the used market underscore their enduring practicality and value.