Sydney 32 Information, Review, Specs

The Sydney 32 made its debut around 2002, with production commencing in 2003 and the inaugural meeting of the Sydney 32 One Design Class Association held in June of that year. [18, 24, The design, spearheaded by Murray, Burns & Dovell, embodied a philosophy of creating a moderate displacement boat that would appeal to both racing and cruising enthusiasts. This ethos aligned perfectly with Sydney Yachts' established reputation, originally cultivated by Bashford Boats, for producing high-performance sailing yachts that also offered a surprising degree of cruising comfort. The company's focus during this era was on competitive one-design racing, ensuring that their vessels, including the Sydney 32, were built to excel while maintaining practical live-aboard features. There were no significant variations in the model noted during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sydney 32's design translates into an exhilarating and responsive sailing experience. With a low Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 139, she falls into the category of an "ultra-light racer," indicating a boat engineered for speed and agility. Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 23.89 is quite high, suggesting excellent performance in light air conditions, where she can readily generate power. A Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.348 indicates a moderate level of stability, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable breeze without excessive heeling.

Reviewers and owners consistently praise the Sydney 32 for its outstanding performance and ease of handling, highlighting its steering, balance, and speed. The boat is known to take off readily in gusts, exhibiting excellent speed both upwind and off the breeze. The large wheel is a notable feature, providing an excellent feel for the helm and contributing to responsive maneuvering. Its modern non-overlapping rig and large open cockpit further enhance its performance-oriented character. The versatility of the Sydney 32 is a recurring theme, with many noting its capability as a "very good harbour, short offshore, twilight, shorthanded racer" while still being enjoyable for cruising. She has also proven her mettle in competitive events, including the Sydney-Gold Coast Race.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Sydney 32 offers a surprisingly spacious and comfortable interior for a yacht of its size, designed to meet IRC requirements. The cabin is characterized by a roomy, well-ventilated, and open-plan layout, enhancing the feeling of space. With approximately 6 feet, 2 inches of headroom throughout, the interior feels bright and airy.

Compared to its larger sibling, the Sydney 38, the 32 is noted to have comparatively larger galley unit and a more attractive finish. The interior features quality timber trims and clean white finishes, creating a light and inviting atmosphere. Essential amenities include a designated navigation area equipped for electronics, a functional galley, and a 12-volt DC electrical switch panel with interior lights. The settee cushions are made of medium-density foam and allow for owner-selected fabric. The overall impression is one of a welcoming and practical living space, designed to balance the boat's racing prowess with comfortable cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sydney 32 frequently highlight its versatility, appreciating its dual capability as a capable racer and a comfortable cruiser. The boat is particularly praised for its performance when sailed short-handed, offering flexibility in crew numbers without sacrificing speed or enjoyment. Many owners find it an excellent choice for a variety of sailing activities, from competitive club racing and twilight series to short offshore passages and entertaining guests in the harbor. The Sydney 32 has also fostered a community around one-design racing, reflecting its design intent and popularity in this segment. While general positive sentiment is evident regarding its solid construction and handling, specific recurring weaknesses or common maintenance issues are not widely reported in owner forums.