Blue Dane 32 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Blue Dane 32 is recognized for its "stiff" sailing characteristics, a result of its high ballast ratio, which often approaches 43% of its total displacement. This design choice ensures that the boat carries its sail area well into freshening breezes before requiring a reef. According to historical design notes from Jan Kjærulff Design, the hull was engineered to provide a balanced helm even when pressed, making it an excellent choice for short-handed sailors.

The boat features a masthead sloop rig and a fin keel with a spade rudder. While it lacks the extreme surfing capabilities of modern light-displacement cruisers, its narrow entries and "fat" midsection allow it to punch through North Sea chop with minimal hobby-horsing. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well on a beat, though the double-ended stern requires some attention when running in heavy following seas to prevent the following waves from "pushing" the quarters.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Blue Dane 32 reflects the classic Scandinavian approach to yacht joinery, utilizing generous amounts of solid teak and mahogany. The layout is traditional for a 32-foot cruiser of its vintage: a V-berth forward, followed by a transverse head (toilet) compartment that separates the sleeping quarters from the main salon. The salon features two longitudinal settees with a central folding table, providing sleeping accommodations for two additional adults.

The galley is typically located to the starboard side of the companionway, featuring a compact two-burner stove and a deep sink, while a dedicated navigation station sits to port. Variations in the interior are rare, as the model was produced with a relatively standardized layout, though some later hulls featured updated electrical panels and improved insulation. The headroom is adequate for sailors up to approximately 6 feet, though the tapering towards the bow and stern naturally limits vertical space in the extremities.

While the Blue Dane 32 is the most prominent model in the range, it shares design DNA with the smaller Blue Dane 28. Jan Kjærulff also applied similar hull philosophies to his work with the Luffe and Elvstrøm brands, making these boats "cousins" in terms of performance and aesthetic lineage.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Blue Dane 32 with a focus on its age-related maintenance. While the hulls are robustly built, the following areas are known "gotchas" for this specific model:

1. Volvo Penta Engine Maintenance: Many original units were fitted with the Volvo Penta MD7A or MD11C. These engines are reliable but parts are becoming increasingly difficult to source. Buyers should check for signs of "scaling" in the raw-water cooling passages, which can lead to overheating.
2. Deck Core Integrity: The Blue Dane uses a balsa or foam sandwich construction for the decks to save weight. Inspect the areas around the chainplates and stanchion bases for "soft spots," which indicate water ingress into the core.
3. Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder configuration can develop play in the bushings over decades of use. If there is significant "clunking" felt through the tiller or wheel while underway, the bearings likely require replacement.
4. Osmotic Blistering: Like many yachts from the late 1970s, some Blue Dane 32s have shown signs of osmosis in the gelcoat. A professional moisture meter test is recommended during the survey.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical knowledge and social gathering is the Blue Dane Klubben, a Danish-based owner's association. The club maintains historical records, sail plans, and a community of owners who share advice on restoration and maintenance. Technical drawings and original brochures are often preserved through the designer’s legacy archives at Jan Kjærulff Design.

The Verdict

The Blue Dane 32 remains a highly respected cruiser for those who value traditional Scandinavian aesthetics and seaworthy performance over the high-volume interiors of modern production boats.

Pros:

• Excellent ballast ratio provides a stable and safe sailing platform.
• Timeless "double-ender" design that stands out in a crowded marina.
• High-quality interior woodwork that ages better than modern veneers.
• Capable of serious offshore passages in the right hands.

Cons:

• Limited interior volume compared to modern 32-footers with wide transoms.
• Original engines may require expensive repowering or extensive overhauls.
• Small cockpit space can feel cramped for more than four adults.