Islander 32 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Islander 32 begins in 1963, emerging from Joseph McGlasson's vision as part of the then-named McGlasson Boat Co., which soon became integrated into the Wayfarer Yacht Corporation before officially adopting the Islander Yachts name by 1965. McGlasson, originally a wooden boat builder, embraced fiberglass early on, and his early fiberglass designs, including the Islander 32, maintained the robust construction ethos of the company's formative years. During this period, Islander Yachts cultivated a reputation for building popular cruising sailboats with solid construction, a hallmark of their design philosophy.

The Islander 32 itself served as a foundational design for subsequent models. Notably, the Islander 33 is recognized as a raised deck version of the original Islander 32, offering enhanced interior volume. Furthermore, the Islander 34 appears to be based on the same underlying design, potentially incorporating modifications such as a different rudder, coach roof, or the addition of a bowsprit. The Islander 32 featured a fin keel, a characteristic indicated in its specifications, providing a blend of performance and stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Interpreting the design ratios of the Islander 32 provides insight into its expected sailing characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.8, the Islander 32 is classified as a moderately powered cruiser, indicating that while it may not be a light-air speed demon, it is designed to perform capably in moderate to heavy winds. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio, a substantial 0.47, suggests a very stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind without excessive heel. This high ballast ratio contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway and a reassuring feel for its crew. The Displacement to Length ratio, around 283, places the Islander 32 firmly in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, reflecting its emphasis on solid construction and seaworthiness over light-displacement speed.

Anecdotal reports from owners generally praise the Islander 32 for its solid build and seaworthy characteristics. Many describe it as a capable vessel suitable for diverse needs, from family cruising to more ambitious offshore passages. Owners frequently highlight the boat's good internal support, contributing to its robust feel. However, some older versions of the original McGlasson-designed Islander 32 have been noted for exhibiting weather helm.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the original Joseph McGlasson-designed Islander 32 (1963-1967) are less frequently documented online compared to later models, Islander Yachts generally built boats known for their comfortable interiors. For a vessel of just over 32 feet in length, the Islander 32 would typically feature a traditional cruising layout. This would include a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that often convert into berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design would have aimed to maximize livable space, consistent with Islander's reputation for providing comfortable accommodations suitable for overnight stays and extended cruising. The robust fiberglass construction of the hull would also contribute to a sense of security and durability within the living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Islander 32 consistently praise its solid construction and overall seaworthiness, attributes that have allowed many of these classic yachts to continue gracing waterways decades after their build. The boat's robust build and stable motion in a seaway are frequently cited as significant strengths, instilling confidence in its ability to handle various conditions. While many express satisfaction with the boat's design and capabilities, a recurring point of discussion among some owners of the older McGlasson-designed Islander 32 models has been the tendency for weather helm. Despite this, the enduring appeal and active communities around these boats underscore their lasting value as reliable and well-regarded cruising sailboats.