Jouët 32 Information, Review, Specs

The Jouët 32 emerged during a significant period for its builder, Jouët. Founded by Jean-Pierre Jouët, the company transitioned from traditional wooden boatbuilding to embracing fiberglass construction, a material that revolutionized boat production efficiency. By 1970, Jouët, along with Lanaverre, had become a subsidiary of Yachting France, a consolidation driven by the challenging economic climate of the 1970s. Despite this corporate shift, the Jouët name continued to be used for models like the Jouët 32, reflecting the brand's enduring reputation for well-designed, robust, and seaworthy vessels. The Jouët 32, with a production run spanning from 1976 to 1980, exemplifies this era of French fiberglass yachting, with a design philosophy centered on dependable performance and comfort., 1] The design features a fin keel, which contributes to its splendid maneuverability, and a skeg-hung rudder, enhancing control and protection.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jouët 32 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat that offers high performance. With a reported sail area of 620 square feet, her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.6 suggests good light-air performance, indicating she can move well even in lighter breezes. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.385 points to a reasonably stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to a fair amount of wind. The displacement to length (D/L) ratio, around 291.5, positions the Jouët 32 as a medium-heavy cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners and reviews generally highlight the Jouët 32's stability, stiffness, and good righting capability. Her masthead sloop rig and fin keel design contribute to her overall sailing ease and responsiveness.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its age, the Jouët 32 offers a surprisingly spacious interior for a vessel of its size, being described as more voluminous than many comparable sailboats. The layout typically includes two cabins and can accommodate up to six berths. While specific details on interior finishes are limited, Jouët boats from this era were generally known for solid construction. The design philosophy of the time favored practical layouts for cruising, focusing on maximizing usable space and comfort, reflecting broader trends in cruising yacht design. Standard interior features would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a compact galley, and a dedicated head compartment, all designed to facilitate comfortable coastal or extended cruising.