She C32 Information, Review, Specs

With a focus on combining performance with comfort, the SHE C32 embodies the design philosophy that made Sparkman & Stephens a legendary name in naval architecture. Its enduring appeal to sailors who value seaworthiness and a rewarding sailing experience reflects the high standards set by its designers and builders.

The SHE C32's production began in 1972, emerging from the workshops of South Hants Engineering (SHE), a British boatbuilder founded by the Fitzgerald brothers in 1968. Derek Fitzgerald, a keen sailing enthusiast, steered the company towards yacht building, establishing an exclusive partnership with the esteemed American design firm Sparkman & Stephens (S&S). This collaboration ensured that all SHE yachts, including the C32, benefited from S&S's globally recognized design leadership, known for their elegant lines, efficient underwater profiles, and robust construction.

The SHE C32 specifically evolved as a more cruising-oriented version of the successful SHE 31(B), which itself was a popular cruiser-racer. While specific details on the design goals for the C32 are not widely published, the S&S philosophy generally emphasized balanced performance, seaworthiness, and timeless aesthetics, 9]. Built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, the SHE C32 exemplifies the durable, low-maintenance vessels characteristic of modern yacht building in that era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The SHE C32, with its Sparkman & Stephens heritage, is noted for its "fast, agile" and well-mannered sailing characteristics, suitable for extended cruising. Its design ratios provide insight into its performance profile. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.6, the SHE C32 presents a modest sail plan relative to its weight, suggesting a capable cruiser rather than an extreme light-air performer. This configuration typically translates to a forgiving motion and manageable sail handling in varied conditions.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.425 indicates a significant proportion of its weight is in the keel, contributing to excellent stability and stiffness. This allows the vessel to stand up well to a breeze, making for a comfortable and secure ride in a seaway. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 301, the SHE C32 is classified as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing seaworthiness and comfortable passage-making over ultimate speed. The design provides a theoretical hull speed of 6.4 knots. Owners often describe the SHE C32 as a "classic in all senses" and a yacht whose "design and build will always look after you".

Accommodations and Layout

The SHE C32 offers a traditional interior layout, designed to provide comfortable accommodation for up to six individuals. While specific headroom figures are not readily available in the provided data, reviews indicate a functional and well-appointed living space.

Typical arrangements often include a V-berth forward, a main saloon with opposing settees that can convert into additional berths, a compact galley, and a navigation station. The interior finishes generally feature classic materials, such as wood trim, which contributed to the warmth and timeless aesthetic characteristic of yachts from this era. Ample storage is usually integrated throughout the cabins, accommodating the needs of cruisers. Owners of similar S&S designs from the period often appreciate the practical and robust nature of the interior joinery and fittings.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the SHE C32 for its robust construction and dependable performance, echoing the reputation of its Sparkman & Stephens design lineage and South Hants Engineering's build quality. The boat is often described as a solid and seaworthy vessel, capable of handling challenging conditions with a comfortable motion. One owner notably sailed to the Faeroes in a SHE C32, demonstrating its offshore capabilities.

The enduring appeal of the SHE C32 is evident in its continued presence in sailing communities, with many boats actively maintained and cherished by their owners. Some owners have undertaken extensive refitting programs, sometimes converting original berth configurations to better suit their individual cruising needs, highlighting the boat's adaptability and the dedication of its enthusiasts.