Laurin 32 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Laurin 32 is a heavy-displacement vessel designed for stability and "sea-kindliness" rather than out-and-out speed. With a full keel and a significant displacement-to-length ratio, the boat exhibits exceptional tracking, making it an ideal candidate for windvane self-steering systems. On the water, the L32 feels incredibly solid; it does not "slam" into head seas but rather slices through them, a trait frequently noted in historical Swedish sailing journals.

In light air, the boat can be sluggish due to its high wetted surface area, but as the breeze freshens to 15 knots and above, the hull reaches its stride. The "Koster" hull shape—specifically the wide beam carried well aft—provides significant initial stability, allowing the boat to carry full sail longer than more modern, narrow-stern designs. Owners often report that the boat feels most at home in Force 5 or 6 conditions, where its weight and balanced helm provide a sense of security that is rare in contemporary 32-footers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Laurin 32 typically features a traditional and functional layout designed for life at sea. The use of high-quality Scandinavian joinery—usually mahogany or teak—creates a warm, sturdy environment. Most configurations include a V-berth forward, a compact head (often located between the mast and the salon), and a main cabin with two longitudinal settees that double as excellent sea berths.

The galley is usually positioned near the companionway for ventilation and ease of use while underway. Headroom is generous for a boat of this era, typically hovering around 6 feet (1.85m) in the main salon. There are minor variations depending on the year of build; earlier models may feature more utilitarian finishes, while later versions often incorporated more refined cabinetry. Unlike its smaller sibling, the Laurin 28, which can feel cramped for extended voyages, the 32-foot hull offers enough internal volume for a couple to live aboard comfortably for several months.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Laurin 32, the primary concern is the age of the fiberglass and the specific construction methods of the era.

1. Osmosis: As with many GRP boats from the 1960s and 70s, the hull should be checked for osmotic blistering. While Swedish builds of this period were generally robust, the thickness of the laminate does not make them immune to moisture ingress.
2. Chainplates and Rigging: The original stainless steel chainplates are often glassed into the hull or bolted through thick sections of the deck. These should be inspected for crevice corrosion, particularly if the boat has spent significant time in tropical waters.
3. Deck Core: Many L32s utilized a sandwich construction for the decks. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a "tap test" with a phenolic hammer to check for delamination or soft spots, particularly around the mast step and stanchion bases.
4. Engine Access: While the engine is generally located under the cockpit sole, access can be tight. Prospective buyers should check the condition of the engine mounts and the stern gland, as these are difficult to reach for maintenance in some interior configurations.
5. Rudder Attachment: The rudder is hung on the trailing edge of the keel. The pintles and gudgeons should be inspected for play or wear, as repairing these underwater components requires hauling the vessel.

Community & Resources

The Laurin 32 enjoys a dedicated following, particularly in Northern Europe. The most prominent technical resource is the L-Båtsförbundet (The L-Boat Association), based in Sweden. This organization provides a repository of technical drawings and historical data for the Arvid Laurin "L" series, including the L22, L28, L32, and L38. While much of their technical documentation is in Swedish, the community is known for being highly supportive of international owners seeking to restore or maintain these classic hulls.

The Verdict

The Laurin 32 is a "sailor’s sailboat," designed for those who prioritize safety, durability, and classic aesthetics over modern interior volume and planing speeds. It remains one of the most capable offshore cruisers in the 30-to-35-foot range.

Pros:

• Exceptional heavy-weather performance and sea-kindliness.
• Timeless, rugged "Koster" design with high aesthetic appeal.
• Robust build quality capable of high-latitude or blue-water voyaging.

Cons:

• Relatively slow in light winds due to high wetted surface area.
• Limited maneuverability in tight marinas because of the full-keel configuration.
• Potential for high maintenance costs associated with older GRP and rigging.