Chance 32 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Chance 32 is a product of the early IOR era, characterized by a deep, high-aspect fin keel and a "bustle" or "kick-up" in the hull shape near the rudder. Because Britton Chance Jr. was a master of the math-heavy design approach, the boat feels exceptionally "stiff" and technical. With a high ballast-to-displacement ratio—often cited at approximately 45%—the vessel stands up well to its canvas in heavy air, a trait discussed in the historical archives of Wauquiez Forever, the official association dedicated to the brand’s heritage.

To windward, the Chance 32 is a scalpel. Its narrow waterlines and deep draft allow it to point higher than many contemporary 32-footers. However, like many early IOR designs, it requires an active hand on the helm when sailing off the wind in a following sea. The "pinched" stern and wide midsections can cause the boat to oscillate or "roll" if over-canvased in a blow, a characteristic often noted by owners of the sibling Chance 33 and the smaller Chance 30/30. Handling is responsive, bordering on twitchy for the uninitiated, but rewarding for those who enjoy the nuances of sail trim and rig tension.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its racing DNA, the Chance 32 was fitted by Wauquiez with a level of interior luxury rarely seen in 1970s production racers. The cabin is defined by rich, solid teak joinery and a layout that maximizes the 10-foot beam. A traditional V-berth is located forward, followed by a head and hanging locker that separate the sleeping quarters from the main salon. The salon typically features two settee berths with a center-line table, providing a social atmosphere that belies the boat's aggressive exterior lines.

The primary sibling to this model is the Chance 33, which entered production in 1972 and saw approximately 100 units built. While the 32 was a tighter, more development-focused hull, the 33 added volume and length, primarily to improve the interior's ergonomics and broaden the boat's appeal to the cruising market. Some 32s were built with a more Spartan, race-oriented layout, while those finished by Wauquiez for the European market often featured the "Luxe" interior packages with pressure water and more sophisticated galleys.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Chance 32 should focus on the structural integrity of a design that was built to be pushed hard in offshore races.

1. Hull-to-Deck Joint: Like many Wauquiez yachts of this era, the joint is robust but can develop leaks after decades of rig tension. Inspect the interior teak cabinetry for water staining, especially in the areas beneath the chainplates.
2. Deck Delamination: The Chance 32 used a balsa core in the deck for weight savings. Moisture ingress around the stanchion bases or the mast step can lead to soft spots. A thorough percussion test or moisture meter reading is essential.
3. The "Chance Bustle": The complex hull shape near the rudder can be a point of stress. Check for osmotic blistering or stress cracks where the rudder skeg meets the hull.
4. Original Engine: Many units were originally fitted with small Arona or Farymann diesel engines. Most have since been repowered, but if the original unit remains, parts are notoriously difficult to source.
5. Rigging Loads: Because the boat is capable of carrying high loads to windward, the mast step and the structural floor grid (which carries the keel bolts) should be inspected for signs of compression or movement.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support for this model is the Wauquiez Forever association. This organization, founded by the descendants of Henri Wauquiez, maintains an archive of original brochures and technical specifications for the Chance series. Additional technical support can often be found through the Britton Chance Jr. design archives, which highlight the vessel's relation to his larger America’s Cup projects.

The Verdict

The Chance 32 is a "sailor’s sailboat," offering a rare blend of America’s Cup-level naval architecture and Old World French craftsmanship. While it requires more attention at the helm than a modern wide-stern cruiser, its performance in a breeze remains legendary among IOR enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Exceptional windward performance and pointing ability.
• High-quality Wauquiez teak interior that ages beautifully.
• Robust construction suitable for serious offshore work.
• Classic, aggressive IOR aesthetic that stands out in any marina.

Cons:

• Can be temperamental and prone to rolling on downwind legs.
• Limited production run (approx. 15 units) makes parts-sharing difficult.
• Aging balsa-core decks require careful monitoring for moisture.
• Complex hull shapes can make haul-outs and bottom painting more labor-intensive.