Swanson 32 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Swanson 32 spanned nearly a decade, from 1972 to 1979, with approximately 25 units built. During this period, Swanson Brothers, based in Dee Why, Sydney, were undergoing a significant transition from traditional timber boat building to embracing fiberglass construction, a material that was gaining prominence in Australian yacht manufacturing. The builder's ethos, championed by Jim, Ken, and Ron Swanson, focused on creating vessels known for their "solid construction" and "true bluewater capability". While Ron Swanson was the principal designer and known for his "canoe-sterned cruising yachts," the Swanson 32 is a fin-keeled design, indicating an adaptation to the evolving yachting landscape and the International Offshore Rule (IOR) Mk II rating rule. Some observations suggest the designer aimed for a "significantly more speedy hull design" compared to many contemporaries. Notably, some Swanson 32s were built by individuals who acquired the molds to undertake the lay-up and finishing themselves. While most shared a common design, there are reports of variations, such as one Swanson 32 featuring the coachhouse and cockpit of a Swanson 36.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Swanson 32, with its fin keel and masthead sloop rig, offers a sailing profile characteristic of a well-balanced cruiser from its era. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 257 suggests it falls into the moderate displacement category, indicating a yacht that is not overly heavy yet possesses the substance for comfortable cruising. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio, at around 0.39, points to good initial stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up well to wind and sea, aligning with the Swanson Brothers' reputation for seaworthy vessels.

With a reported sail area of 500 square feet and a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of about 15.97, the Swanson 32 is not designed as a light-air speedster. This ratio suggests it is a more conservative cruiser, likely requiring a moderate breeze to achieve optimal performance. Anecdotal owner accounts generally describe the boat as sailing "beautifully". The masthead rig design offers simplicity, a common feature for reliable cruising. While the boat is noted for being "slimmer than 82% of all other designs," contributing to a potentially "speedy hull design" for its size and vintage, its overall performance characteristics lean towards a steady and dependable ride rather than outright racing speed.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details are not extensively provided in the core specifications, information from owner discussions and listings indicates that the Swanson 32 typically offers a practical and usable interior arrangement. Some vessels have been noted to feature five berths. Descriptions suggest the interior quality can vary, with some owners praising the condition of their boat's interior, while others have noted unique or potentially modified layouts. General finishes often reflect the robust and functional approach of the Swanson Brothers, likely utilizing materials common for fiberglass cruisers of the 1970s, such as wood trim and fiberglass liners.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Swanson 32 often praise the boat as a "fantastic boat" known for sailing "beautifully". These vessels consistently embody the Swanson Brothers' reputation for "solid construction" and genuine "bluewater capability," making them sought-after by those valuing robust build quality and seaworthiness. The design is generally considered practical and usable.

However, a frequently cited concern among owners is the timber-cored deck, which is a "well known weakness" that often requires significant maintenance or even a complete replacement. This issue, often related to the use of plywood in the decks, is a common point of inspection for potential buyers. Despite this recurring maintenance challenge, the enduring presence of Swanson 32s in marinas attests to the fundamental soundness of their hulls and their continued appeal to cruising enthusiasts.