Henry Mohrschladt shaped the hull and rig and determined the engine placement and ballast, while the deck came from another hand. Often called the Down East D32 Cutter, the boat combines traditional styling with a cutter rig.
Design and Construction
The Downeaster 32 was built of hand-laid fiberglass, with a thick, solid-laminate hull constructed to Lloyd’s specifications. That substantial layup gives the keel-hung rudder and propeller real protection. The hull was built with a thick, solid fiberglass layup
The mold incorporated faux planking lines convincing enough that many early admirers mistook the hull for wood. Below the waterline, the underbody combines a cutaway forefoot with a wine-glass stern. This arrangement helps handling and performance without giving up the offshore steadiness associated with the long-keel form.
The full keel carries 5,500 pounds of lead ballast. Set low in a boat displacing 17,000 pounds, that ballast contributes to a steady, stable platform.
Rig, Sailing and Handling
The cutter rig carries a clipper bow and a 4-foot bowsprit. Externally mounted chainplates and elegant woodwork near the stem complete the classic appearance. The mast steps on a compression post rather than directly on the keel.
Owners describe the Downeaster 32 as forgiving and seakindly enough for novices, yet still capable of satisfying experienced crews. They report reasonable speed on all points of sail and exceptional behavior in heavy weather, without hobbyhorsing. Owners report forgiving handling and exceptional heavy-weather behavior The beamy hull and full keel provide smooth, comfortable motion even in 25 knots, while the lead ballast keeps the boat nicely balanced.
Accommodations and Tankage
Every Downeaster 32 was finished below decks to its owner’s specifications, so no two interiors are alike. Each boat received an owner-specified interior The 11-foot beam provides plenty of space below. Headroom is 6 feet 4 inches in the galley and 6 feet 10 inches in the saloon, a welcome feature for tall sailors.
The U-shaped galley includes a gimbaled stove, refrigerator/freezer, icebox and stainless-steel double-basin sink. Fresh water is carried in a stainless-steel tank holding 50 to 100 gallons, while the wastewater holding tank has a 30-gallon capacity. Aluminum fuel tanks hold 50 to 75 gallons.
Known Issues
Period reviews widely criticized the original 24-horsepower Farymann diesel as underpowered, although they praised its emergency hand-cranking feature. The Farymann diesel was considered underpowered Many owners have since replaced it with an engine offering more thrust.
Owners also report that the compression post can soften and sag just below the cabin sole when the wood block between the post and keel deteriorates.
Deck delamination is among the most common problems, and deck leaks are typical, very likely caused by through-deck fittings whose caulk has failed and allowed water into the composite deck. Some owners have also said that replacing the aluminum fuel tanks requires extensive carpentry.
Refits and Ownership
Engine replacement is the most common refit, usually replacing the underpowered Farymann with something more powerful. The boat was designed with tiller steering, though some owners have converted to a wheel.
Because each interior was custom-finished, a buyer gets a unique layout. That individuality can be appealing, but it also means buyers must assess the carpentry and systems work aboard the particular boat they’re considering.
The Verdict
Inspired by classic Maine workboats, the Downeaster 32 is a rugged, heavy-displacement bluewater cruiser. Its solid, hand-laid hull and forgiving behavior at sea suit both new and experienced sailors. Custom interiors, generous headroom and the composed motion of the full-keel hull are genuine strengths.
The trade-offs are equally clear. The original engine was underpowered, while compression-post sag, deck delamination and water intrusion are recurring ownership concerns.
Pros
- Thick, hand-laid fiberglass hull built to Lloyd’s specifications
- Full keel with 5,500 pounds of lead ballast, contributing to stable, seakindly motion
- Roomy, individually finished interiors
- Forgiving handling and strong heavy-weather performance
Cons
- Original Farymann diesel was widely considered underpowered
- Compression post can sag when the wood block above the keel deteriorates
- Deck delamination and leaks around through-deck fittings are common
- Fuel-tank replacement can require extensive carpentry
