Fulmar 32 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

The Westerly Fulmar 32's production commenced in 1979, with the first boat launched that year and publicly exhibited at the London Boat Show in 1980. Over its production run, which concluded in 1992, a substantial 437 units of the Fulmar 32 were built. Ed Dubois, responsible for the Fulmar 32, delivered this as his second design for Westerly. The design marked a strategic shift for Westerly, as they aimed to "step up a gear" in performance, influenced by the success of racier cruisers imported from France during that period. Dubois's philosophy for the Fulmar was to create a yacht that was not only fast and exciting but also highly manageable, offering a blend of speed, sleek lines, and graceful performance under sail, without compromising on cruising comfort.

Westerly Marine Construction Ltd., the builder, was a prominent European manufacturer of fiberglass sailboats, operating from the mid-1960s into the 1980s, under the continued leadership of its founder, Harry Rubin. The company was well-regarded for its commitment to solid construction and seaworthiness, attributes that are evident in the Fulmar 32. The model was offered in both a fin keel version, with a maximum draft of 5.25 feet (1.60 meters), and a twin keel variant, featuring a shallower draft of 4.0 feet (1.22 meters). The twin keel option provided enhanced stability for beaching, catering to those who desired access to shallower anchorages and drying out. A limited number of Fulmar 32s were also equipped with a lifting keel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly Fulmar 32 exhibits a well-balanced set of performance characteristics for a cruising yacht of its size. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.15, the Fulmar 32 offers decent performance across a range of wind conditions, providing a spirited yet forgiving ride without being excessively powered in heavy air. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 42.5% is indicative of a stiff and stable hull, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze effectively and maintain an upright position. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 251.46 places her in the category of a medium-heavy cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion through a seaway, reducing pitching and hobby-horsing in rougher conditions.

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Fulmar 32 as a "relatively high-performance cruising yacht that is no slouch," capable of covering distances efficiently. She is described as a "fast yet highly manageable" sloop with a well-planned, manageable rig that simplifies handling. This combination of speed and ease of control makes her suitable for both challenging club racing and more relaxed, longer cruises. Anecdotal evidence suggests that a well-sailed Fulmar can even outperform a Contessa 32 in certain conditions, highlighting its unexpected turn of speed for a cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Westerly Fulmar 32 is known for being spacious, well thought-out, and making "ingenious use of all" available space. Designed for comfort during extended cruising, the layout typically features two cabins. Upon entering, there is generally a galley to one side, equipped with essential cooking facilities, and a navigation station or quarter berth on the opposite. The saloon area forward offers comfortable seating, often with settees that can convert into berths, and a central table. Further forward, a V-berth in the bow provides the primary sleeping accommodation, while a dedicated head compartment typically includes a marine toilet and a basin.

The interior finish often incorporates wood trim, contributing to a warm and traditional marine ambiance, with some boats featuring elegant wood flooring. Good ventilation and ample storage are characteristic features, addressing the practical needs of cruisers. The maximum headroom within the cabin is generous, reportedly around 6 feet 2 inches, enhancing the sense of space and comfort below deck. The cockpit and deck layout are also well-planned, contributing to both ease of handling and comfort while underway or at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Fulmar 32 consistently laud its robust construction and seaworthy characteristics, making it a trusted vessel for various sailing conditions. Many consider it to be "the best boat Westerly ever built," a testament to its successful blend of performance, stability, and comfort. The Fulmar's solid build quality contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, a highly valued attribute for cruising. Its manageable rig and overall handling characteristics are frequently cited as strengths, making it an approachable boat for new owners while still offering rewarding sailing to more experienced sailors.

While generally well-regarded, like many fiberglass yachts of its era, some Fulmar 32 owners have reported instances of osmosis. However, this issue is often considered typical for GRP hulls of a certain age and is not necessarily more prevalent on the Fulmar than on comparable vessels. Modern osmosis treatments can effectively address this if it arises. Overall, owners appreciate the Fulmar 32 as a "sensible entry point into boat ownership" due to its robust nature and the ability for "muscle power to overcome most parking mishaps" at 32 feet. The active Westerly Owners Association also provides a strong community and resource for those seeking advice and support for their Fulmar 32s.