Sadler 32 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sadler 32 entered production in 1979, emerging from the boat-building venture established by David Sadler and his son Martin in 1974. David Sadler, already celebrated for designs like the Contessa 26 and Contessa 32, envisioned the Sadler 32 as an evolution, specifically addressing the Contessa's limitations in accommodation and interior volume. Sadler Yachts, as a builder, was distinguished by its pioneering use of foam sandwich construction for its hulls. This innovative method, bonding inner and outer fiberglass skins to a foam core, not only imparted significant strength but also provided inherent buoyancy, rendering the yachts virtually unsinkable—a key selling point for the brand. This construction technique also enabled superior molding quality, allowing Sadler to offer a five-year anti-osmosis guarantee, a rare assurance at the time.

Throughout its production run, which concluded in 1989, the Sadler 32 was offered with various keel configurations, including a standard fin keel, a shoal draft option, and a bilge keel version, catering to diverse cruising grounds and owner preferences. Engine choices also evolved; early models were fitted with the Watermota 30hp Seapanther, succeeded by the Bukh 20 after 1982, and later by the Volvo 2002 beginning in 1986.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 31.5 feet and a waterline length of 24.0 feet, the Sadler 32 presents as a substantial cruiser for its size. Its design yields a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.14. This moderate ratio indicates a boat that is balanced in performance, neither a dedicated light-air flyer nor overly sluggish, making it well-suited for a variety of cruising scenarios. The Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.442 is notably high, suggesting a stiff and stable platform capable of standing up to a good breeze. Complementing this, the Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 306.77 places the Sadler 32 firmly in the heavier, more traditional cruiser category, often associated with a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Anecdotal reports consistently highlight the Sadler 32 as a competent and forgiving vessel to sail. Owners frequently describe her as a great sailing yacht that is very easy to handle, even single-handed. She has a reputation for being seaworthy and capable of performing well in varying conditions, with some reports noting her drier ride and better dead downwind performance compared to her predecessor, the Contessa 32. The design prioritizes stability and comfort, making her a rewarding boat for gentle cruising in light airs while retaining the ability to be sailed hard and safely in adverse weather.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Sadler 32, with a beam of 10.5 feet, was a significant area of improvement over earlier designs by David Sadler, aiming for enhanced comfort and functionality for extended voyages. While specific headroom figures are not consistently listed, the design sought to overcome the limited headroom of the Contessa 32. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, which can often be converted into a double berth, followed by a head compartment. The main salon usually comprises settees that can serve as berths, often with a folding table. A galley area and quarter berths are commonly found aft. Owner feedback suggests the interior, while not expansive by modern standards, is practical for coastal and offshore cruising. The emphasis on robust construction extends to the interior, with a general sense of durability and functional design.

Owner's Perspectives

Sadler 32 owners frequently express strong satisfaction with the boat's solid construction and overall seaworthiness. They consistently praise its reliability and the confidence it instills when encountering challenging conditions. The ease of handling, even for a single person, is a commonly lauded strength. Many appreciate the balance between sailing performance and cruising comfort, noting the boat's ability to maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway.

However, as with any vessel of its vintage, some recurring maintenance considerations are noted by owners. Common issues reported include potential leaks around chainplates and windows, which may require re-bedding over time, and occasionally, cracking around stanchion bases. While Sadler Yachts offered a pioneering anti-osmosis guarantee, osmosis can still be a consideration on older fiberglass boats. The age of the original engines also means that many Sadler 32s may have undergone, or be due for, re-engining, with owners often considering modern diesel alternatives to improve reliability and efficiency. Despite these typical aging boat considerations, a strong and active owner community exists, providing support and shared knowledge, which is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Sadler 32.