Westsail 32 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Westsail 32 begins with Lynne and Snyder Vick's acquisition of the molds for the Kendall 32 from Kendall Yacht Corporation, a design based on William Atkin's 32-foot "Thistle." William Crealock was instrumental in modifying these lines for fiberglass production and advising on design details. The Westsail Corporation commenced production in 1971, rapidly establishing a reputation for building exceptionally strong and heavily constructed fiberglass cruising yachts in the United States. The company's philosophy, deeply embedded in the Westsail 32, prioritized safety and comfort for offshore passages, often at the expense of outright speed.

Production of the Westsail 32 spanned from 1971 to 1981, with a remarkable 834 hulls built. Notably, approximately half of these vessels were sold as kits or bare hulls, allowing owners to complete their own boats, which led to variations in interior layouts, rig dimensions, and even ballast materials. An earlier design, the Kendall 32, featured a flush deck, while Westsail added its distinctive trunk cabin. The very first completed Westsail 32 hull was #33, with #32 following, showcasing initial variations, including both ketch and cutter rig configurations, often with wood masts on early models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westsail 32's design parameters clearly indicate its intended role as a robust offshore cruiser rather than a light-air performer. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.7, she is classified as a heavy displacement vessel, meaning she will require more wind to get moving and will not excel in light air conditions. Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.359, contributes to a decent level of stability, allowing her to stand up to a good amount of wind and maintain an upright position. However, the most defining characteristic is her very high displacement to length ratio of approximately 418.6, which places her firmly in the category of a very heavy, traditional cruiser. This heavy displacement, combined with a full keel and canoe stern, results in a comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent tracking ability in challenging conditions.

Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Westsail 32 as forgiving and predictable, known for its ability to hold a course well, especially off the wind. While not built for speed, particularly upwind, her inherent stability makes her a confidence-inspiring vessel in rough weather. Some reports suggest she might roll a bit more easily initially compared to some lighter, narrower designs, but she is exceptionally difficult to knock down, reinforcing her reputation for ultimate seaworthiness.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 32 feet, the Westsail 32 is renowned for its surprisingly spacious interior volume, a direct benefit of its heavy displacement. The boat offers a maximum headroom of 6.17 feet, allowing most individuals to stand comfortably upright below deck.

The interior layout typically features a traditional arrangement well-suited for extended cruising. Common configurations include a V-berth forward, a marine head (often to port or starboard, aft of the V-berth), and a main salon with settees that frequently convert into berths. The galley is usually located aft in the main salon, often to port or starboard, providing a functional space for meal preparation. Storage is generally ample throughout the vessel, with numerous lockers, shelves, and bins designed to accommodate provisions and gear for long voyages. The finish quality, particularly on factory-finished boats, often showcases classic wooden joinery, contributing to a cozy and timeless aesthetic. Due to the significant number of kit-built boats, interior finishes and exact layouts can vary considerably from one Westsail 32 to another.

Owner's Perspectives

The Westsail 32 has cultivated an extremely loyal and active owner community, largely through the Westsail Owners Association (WOA), which serves as a vital resource for both current and prospective owners. Owners consistently praise the boat's solid construction, ruggedness, and reliability, affirming its reputation as an ideal vessel for blue-water cruising, particularly for two people. Many value its comfortable motion in a seaway and its ability to handle demanding offshore conditions with confidence.

However, common recurring themes among owners also highlight areas for consideration. The boat's heavy displacement, while beneficial for seaworthiness, means it is not a fast boat, especially in light air, and can be frustrating for those prioritizing speed or day sailing over long-distance cruising. A frequently noted maintenance issue involves the original deck fittings, which owners report can be prone to developing leaks over time, often requiring re-bedding. Some older models have also shown signs of rudder saturation or delamination, necessitating attention. Despite these potential issues, the collective owner sentiment emphasizes a deep appreciation for the Westsail 32's design and its enduring capability as a true cruising yacht.