Fulmar 32 MH Twin Keel (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

It is important to note that while this vessel bears the "Westerly" name, it was built by Westerly Marine Construction Ltd. (UK), a prominent European production builder of fiberglass composite sailboats from the mid-1960s. This entity is distinct from Westerly Marine Inc., based in Santa Ana, California, which focused on custom, high-performance vessels using advanced composite materials like carbon fiber.

The Westerly Fulmar 32 began its production run in 1979, with the first boat launched that year and first exhibited at the London Boat Show in 1980. The main production of the standard Fulmar 32 continued until 1992. As the second design for Westerly by Ed Dubois, the Fulmar was specifically engineered to offer substantially higher performance than preceding Westerly models such as the Berwick, Renown, and Pentland. Dubois' philosophy for this model was to create a fast, yet highly manageable 32-foot sloop, combining elegant aesthetics with superb sailing qualities, positioning it as a fast cruising yacht that is "no slouch."

Westerly Marine Ltd. (UK), the builder, was known for its first-class construction during this era. The Fulmar 32 was offered with various keel configurations, including the twin keel (bilge keel) variant, as seen in this specific model, and also a fin keel version. A small number of boats were even delivered with a lifting keel option.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly Fulmar 32, with a length overall of just under 32 feet and a waterline length of 26 feet, offers a balanced performance profile. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio is approximately 18.04. This ratio suggests a boat with good light-air performance, indicating it can move well in lighter winds without feeling sluggish. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at approximately 251.48, positions the Fulmar 32 as a medium-light cruising boat, striking a balance between lighter, more performance-oriented vessels and heavier, more traditional cruisers.

While specific ballast-to-displacement data is unavailable for interpretation, anecdotal accounts consistently praise the Fulmar's handling characteristics. Owners and reviewers describe it as a fast yet highly manageable vessel that "sails well" and boasts "excellent handling while sailing." Its design ensures a comfortable motion in a seaway, making it suitable for longer cruises and opening up new horizons for deep-water sailing as well as club racing. The twin keel version, in particular, is noted for its versatility, offering good performance while still allowing for shallower draft capabilities beneficial for coastal and estuary cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Westerly Fulmar 32 is renowned for being spacious and thoughtfully arranged, making ingenious use of available space. The layout typically features accommodations for four to seven berths, commonly configured with six berths spread across the saloon and a comfortable V-berth in the bow cabin. The interior boasts a comfortable headroom of around 6 feet 2 inches, which is generous for a boat of this size from its era.

The cockpit is a closed aft design, providing a secure and well-protected area for sailing. The deck layout is also well-planned, contributing to ease of handling. While specific details on the finish quality or materials like extensive wood trim are not always highlighted in general reviews, Westerly's reputation for solid construction would extend to the interior fit-out, suggesting a practical and durable finish.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Fulmar 32 consistently praise its robust construction and its comfortable motion even in challenging sea states. Many find it to be a very satisfying family cruising yacht, capable of serious sailing across various European coasts. The boat is often described as easy to maintain and work on, adding to its appeal for long-term ownership. Its excellent handling and balanced performance are frequently highlighted, affirming its design as a capable and rewarding vessel for both experienced sailors and those seeking a reliable cruiser.

While general concerns like osmosis can be a factor for any fiberglass hull of this vintage, there are no specific widespread issues uniquely attributed to the Fulmar 32 beyond those common to boats of its age. Owners appreciate the Fulmar's blend of speed and family-friendly practicality, often noting that it lives up to its reputation as an "all-rounder."