Southerly 32 Information, Review, Specs

The Southerly 32 entered production in 2007, reflecting Northshore Yachts' commitment to producing robust and adaptable cruising vessels crafted from GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic). 2, 5, 13, Builder Article Designed by the esteemed Stephen Jones, the brief was to create a modern cruising yacht that encapsulated the established features of the Southerly range within a hull optimized for a 10-meter mooring. The design incorporates a modern hull shape with a plumb stem and a long waterline, aimed at delivering impressive sailing performance. While its precise production end year varies across sources, it was built until at least 2014, with some records indicating production into 2015. During its production run, the Southerly 32 was also marketed as the Southerly 330. Notably, it featured a new window design, contributing to its thoroughly modern aesthetic, and was equipped with twin rudders for enhanced control.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Southerly 32 is designed to offer a balanced and enjoyable sailing experience. With a reported sail area of 566 square feet and a displacement of 15,855 pounds, the sailboat has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 14.35. This suggests a moderate performer, capable of comfortable cruising rather than being a dedicated light-air speedster. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.38 indicates reasonable stability, providing a solid feel without being excessively stiff, aligning with its robust cruising aspirations. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 294, the Southerly 32 falls into the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, indicative of a robust build quality designed for comfort in a seaway.

Owners consistently praise the Southerly 32 as a fast, exhilarating vessel and a real pleasure to helm. Its modern hull shape, combined with a plumb stem and long waterline length, contributes to impressive sailing performance. The twin rudders enhance control, particularly in challenging conditions, and the boat is described as handling well even when the breeze is gusting. Many owners highlight its seaworthiness and robust construction, noting that it can be relatively fast in strong winds. The inclusion of a self-tacking jib and in-mast furling further simplifies sail handling, making it an easy boat to manage for cruisers. The crowning feature, however, is its innovative swing keel, which allows the draft to vary significantly from a minimum of 2.3 feet (0.7 meters) to a maximum of 6.96 feet (2.2 meters). This variable draft offers unparalleled access to shallow anchorages and the unique ability to "beach" the yacht, greatly expanding cruising possibilities.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Southerly 32 is widely recognized for its impressive feeling of space, offering excellent accommodation and good headroom for a yacht of its size. The design features an open-plan layout that is described as elegant, spacious, and airy, making it a comfortable yacht for extended cruising. Interior joinery is typically crafted from solid American Cherry and matching marine-quality faced plywood, complemented by fabric-covered plywood or moulded GRP linings.

Throughout the cabin, practical headroom is a significant feature; the heads compartment boasts a generous 6 feet 7 inches of headroom, with a large shower and excellent access to seacocks. The fore cabin also provides ample standing room, with approximately 6 feet of headroom. The saloon berths are often fitted with lee-cloths, enhancing safety and comfort while at sea. The helm position is well-regarded, offering great sight lines and comfortable seating. Overall, the Southerly 32 provides a large internal volume for a 32-foot cruiser, focusing on livability and comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Southerly 32 for its solid construction and overall build quality, describing these boats as tough, strongly built, and well-designed. The unique swing keel is consistently highlighted as a major strength, providing unparalleled access to shallow waters and greatly enhancing cruising versatility. Owners also appreciate the boat's comfortable motion in a seaway, its easy handling, and the spacious, airy interior that makes it suitable for extended periods on board. The Southerly 32 is also noted for holding its value well in the used boat market.

While generally well-regarded, some common areas owners advise checking include the mast wiring deck glands and the jib track anchor points, as these have occasionally been noted for developing leaks. Additionally, some owners report issues with the original teak decking, which may require attention over time. Despite these minor considerations, the collective sentiment among Southerly 32 owners is overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a loyal community drawn to the yacht's distinctive blend of performance, comfort, and shallow-draft capability.