ETAP 32I Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the ETAP 32i is characterized by its stiffness and predictable tracking, largely due to the buoyancy distribution of its hull and a balanced fractional rig. With a Displacement/Length ratio typically hovering in the moderate cruiser range, the boat is not a light-air specialist, yet it maintains momentum well once the breeze exceeds 10 knots. The 7/8 fractional rig allows for precise mainsail control, which is essential for depowering the boat in gusty conditions without the immediate need for a headsail change.

The boat was offered with multiple keel configurations, including a standard deep fin and a highly popular tandem keel. This tandem keel, a hallmark of ETAP’s collaboration with researchers at the University of Delft, utilizes two smaller foils joined by a bulb, allowing for a shallow draft of approximately 1.3 meters without the significant loss of lift usually associated with short keels. In a retrospective evaluation by Yachting Monthly, the 32i's successor (the 32s) was praised for its sea-kindliness, a trait that originated with the 32i's hull form. Owners frequently report that the 32i feels "bigger" than its 32 feet, handling offshore chop with a dampening effect provided by the foam-core hull, which significantly reduces the "drumming" noise common in single-skin fiberglass boats.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the ETAP 32i is a masterclass in late-20th-century marine ergonomics, defined by its "clean" aesthetic and the absence of exposed fiberglass. Because of the double-hull construction, the interior is finished with a complete inner liner, which eliminates condensation—a major advantage for northern European sailors. This construction also provides exceptional thermal and acoustic insulation, keeping the cabin warmer in winter and quieter at anchor.

The layout features a standard V-berth forward and a surprisingly generous double aft cabin, which benefited from the beam being carried well aft. The salon utilizes a folding central table with settee berths on either side. A notable sibling variant is the 32i "Exclusive," which often featured upgraded upholstery, additional cabinetry, and sometimes a more comprehensive electronics suite from the factory. While the 32i was the primary production model, its hull design heavily influenced the later Etap 32s, though the latter moved to a J&J Design interior and a revised deck mold. The 32i’s woodwork is typically light oak or mahogany veneer, which, combined with the white inner hull liner, creates a bright, airy atmosphere even in overcast conditions.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the ETAP 32i is built to a high standard, there are specific technical areas that prospective buyers should investigate.

• Foam Saturation: Although the closed-cell foam is intended to be water-resistant, if the outer hull has suffered significant osmotic blistering or impact damage that was left unrepaired, there is a risk of moisture ingress into the foam. A moisture meter check on both the inner and outer skins is essential.
• Window Seals: The panoramic windows are a signature feature but are known to develop leaks over decades. Because the windows are through-bolted and sealed against a double-skin structure, re-bedding them can be more labor-intensive than on a standard hull.
• Rudder Bearings: Owners on technical forums have noted that the rudder post can develop play over time. Given the unsinkable design, the rudder assembly is integrated carefully with the inner hull, and replacing the bearings requires specific ETAP-sourced or custom-machined parts.
• Saildrive Diaphragm: Most 32i models were fitted with Volvo Penta or Yanmar engines using saildrives. The rubber sealing diaphragm has a recommended replacement interval (usually 7 years) that is frequently ignored by owners; this should be a primary inspection point.

Community & Resources

The ETAP 32i enjoys strong support from a dedicated European community. The ETAP Owners Association serves as the primary repository for technical manuals, wiring diagrams, and specific advice on maintaining the double-hull structure. There are also active national branches, particularly in the UK, Belgium, and Germany, where the majority of these vessels were sold. These associations are instrumental in sourcing specialized parts that are no longer in production since the shipyard's closure.

The Verdict

The ETAP 32i remains one of the most logical choices for a safety-conscious coastal cruiser. Its unique construction provides a level of security that few modern boats can match, while its Harlé & Mortain hull ensures that it remains a pleasure to helm.

Pros:

• Unsinkable Construction: Provides unmatched peace of mind for offshore or night passages.
• Thermal Insulation: The double-hull prevents condensation and regulates cabin temperature.
• Shallow Draft Capability: The tandem keel option allows for exploration of thin water without sacrificing significant windward performance.
• Resale Value: Due to the brand's reputation and the cessation of production, well-maintained 32i models hold their value remarkably well.

Cons:

• Repair Complexity: Damage to the hull core can be more difficult and expensive to repair than in a traditional single-skin boat.
• Storage Volume: The double-skin design necessarily eats into some of the internal volume that might otherwise be used for deep lockers.
• Aging Acrylics: The large, wrap-around windows are prone to crazing and leaking if not meticulously maintained.