Nantucket Clipper 32 (Buchanan) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Nantucket Clipper 32 began production in 1970, with its design credited to the prolific British maritime architect Alan Harold Buchanan. Buchanan was a leading designer known for creating yachts that blended traditional aesthetics with practical sailing characteristics. While specific details on his design philosophy for this particular model are not widely documented, his work generally focused on seaworthiness and a balanced approach to performance and comfort.

Offshore Yachts Ltd., the builder, made its mark in the late 1960s and early 1970s by producing fiberglass sailboats known for their robust construction and suitability for offshore conditions. Their manufacturing ethos emphasized sturdy builds, well-proportioned rigs, and comfortable interiors, aligning perfectly with the Nantucket Clipper 32's design.

During its production run, the Nantucket Clipper 32 was primarily offered as a masthead yawl, a rig known for its versatility and ease of handling in varying wind conditions. However, the model was also available as a sloop, providing options for different sailing preferences. Interestingly, some design drawings also indicate a potential fin keel and spade rudder configuration, suggesting variations from the standard long keel model. A "MkII" version is also noted, featuring a full-depth rudder.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nantucket Clipper 32, with its long keel hull type, is designed for stability and a comfortable motion rather than outright speed. Its calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 28.03 suggests decent performance, particularly in lighter airs, where it can make good progress. The ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.405 (40.5%) indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a reassuring ride even in challenging conditions.

With a displacement-to-length ratio of around 400.0, the Nantucket Clipper 32 falls firmly into the heavy displacement category, typical of traditional cruising yachts. This significant displacement contributes to its stable ride but means it is not a light or particularly fast boat. Owners have described the yawl rig as "relaxing to sail". While it may be a "poor windward performer due to low profile rigs," it is noted to "go like stink on a reach". Its hull speed is approximately 6.14 knots, aligning with expectations for a boat of its size and design.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Nantucket Clipper 32 boasts a length overall of just under 32 feet, its interior layout is generally considered "compact but practical". The design priorities appear to have leaned towards seaworthiness, which sometimes meant a compromise on expansive interior volume. Reviews suggest that while practical, the interior space can feel limited, with some owners expressing reservations about the dinette layout.

Despite its compact nature, the boat typically offers five berths, making it suitable for a small crew or family. It generally features a fitted galley, providing basic amenities for cruising. Information on specific finishes, materials (e.g., amount of wood trim versus fiberglass), storage solutions, or ventilation details is not widely documented, but it can be inferred that the focus would have been on durable and functional arrangements fitting its robust cruising purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nantucket Clipper 32 frequently praise its inherent stability and robust construction, aligning with Offshore Yachts Ltd.'s reputation for building seaworthy vessels. Many appreciate its "beautiful" classic lines and the relaxing nature of sailing its yawl rig. The "good stability figures" are a consistent positive mentioned by owners, contributing to a sense of security and comfort offshore. The enduring presence of these boats on the used market is a testament to their solid build quality.

However, owners also highlight certain characteristics that may be considered weaknesses depending on sailing preferences. A recurring observation is its "poor windward performance" due to the lower profile of its rig. Additionally, while practical, the interior is often described as "very little interior space for her size," leading some owners to find it somewhat cramped. The original engines, such as the Volvo 14 hp mentioned in some listings, may also be a point of consideration for maintenance given their age.