Galaxy 32-3 Information, Review, Specs

The lineage of the Galaxy 32-3 traces back to the original Galaxy 32, which first appeared around 1957 or 1958, initially constructed by builders such as the Beetle Boat Co. The Metalmast Marine-built Galaxy 32-3, produced from 1970 to 1974, marked a notable refinement of William H. Tripp Jr.'s original vision. Tripp, a renowned naval architect, was celebrated for his successful designs in both wooden and later fiberglass sailboats, including iconic models like the Block Island 40 and Hinckley Bermuda 40. His design philosophy often leaned towards creating "spacy hull designs," aiming for comfort and robust construction.

Metalmast Marine, the builder of the Galaxy 32-3, primarily established its formidable reputation as one of the world's leading manufacturers of aluminum spars and rigging components from its inception in 1957. While their core business centered on supplying high-quality, well-engineered masts and booms to major boat builders, Metalmast Marine did occasionally venture into complete sailboat production. This limited foray into boat building, which included models like the Galaxy 32-3, showcased their commitment to robust construction, extending their expertise beyond just rigging into the full vessel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Galaxy 32-3, with its masthead sloop rig, combines design features aimed at a balanced and comfortable sailing experience. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.75 suggests that the boat possesses a good amount of sail power for its weight, indicating respectable performance in lighter wind conditions. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, around 26.32%, points to a moderate level of stiffness, meaning while she is stable, she might require reefs earlier than boats with higher ballast ratios when facing heavier winds. With a Displacement to Length ratio of about 277.04, the Galaxy 32-3 falls squarely into the category of a medium-displacement cruiser, offering a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than an emphasis on extreme light-weight speed.

Anecdotal reports suggest the Galaxy 32 is a "fast, solid sailing boat for day trips or cruising." Equipped with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the design offers a good balance of maneuverability, although a fin keel generally provides less directional stability compared to a full keel design. Overall, the Galaxy 32-3 is noted for providing a comfortable experience, with one comparison indicating it is "more comfortable than 85% of all similar sailboat designs." The fiberglass hull demands only minimal maintenance during the sailing season.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Galaxy 32-3 are not widely documented, William H. Tripp Jr.'s design philosophy often prioritized spacious hull designs. The limited information available mentions "cabin cushions," suggesting a standard interior configuration suitable for cruising. Typically for a vessel of just over 31 feet in the 1970s, one would expect a layout featuring a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. The materials used would likely reflect the era's common practices, often combining fiberglass surfaces with wood trim for a warm, functional interior. Information regarding the maximum headroom is not readily available in provided specifications.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Galaxy 32, including the 32-3 variant, participate in online forums, indicating a community interested in these classic William Tripp designs. The boat is generally regarded as a solid sailing vessel for both day trips and cruising. While specific recurring issues or detailed strengths beyond general solid construction and comfort are not extensively documented in broad public reviews, the existence of active owner discussions suggests a loyal following for this classic cruising sailboat.