MacWester Wight Mk II 32 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Wight Mk II are defined by its heavy displacement and its signature twin (bilge) keels. With a weight often exceeding five tons, the boat is not a "greyhound" and typically requires a moderate breeze to overcome its inertia. Once moving, however, it is remarkably stiff and predictable. Owners frequently note that the boat feels "safe as a house" in a blow, a sentiment echoed in accounts from the MacWester Owners Association, where members detail voyages as far as the Azores.

Under sail, the Wight Mk II is a modest performer to windward; the bilge keels result in more leeway than a fin-keeled counterpart, particularly in light air. However, the ketch rig allows for a versatile sail plan, enabling the crew to drop the mainsail and sail comfortably under "jib and jigger" (mizzen and foresail) when conditions freshen. Tracking is generally excellent due to the long, shallow keel profile, though the boat can be heavy on the helm if the sail plan is not properly balanced.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Wight Mk II is often described as "caravan-like" due to its generous beam and high coachroof, providing headroom that was class-leading at the time of its launch. The most common configuration is a center-cockpit layout, which allows for a private aft cabin accessed separately from the main saloon. This separation is a major draw for families or those looking for a liveaboard platform, a use case highlighted in editorial reflections on Yachting Monthly.

Materials are traditional, featuring extensive teak and mahogany joinery. The main saloon typically houses a galley to one side and a dinette that converts into a double berth on the other. Storage is abundant, with lockers tucked into almost every available space under the settees and in the forecabin. While the Wight Mk II focuses on the center-cockpit experience, its sibling, the Malin, offers a more integrated interior flow by moving the cockpit aft, which many buyers prefer for more conventional cabin access.

Popular Mentions & Media

While MacWesters rarely appear in high-speed racing documentaries, they have a significant footprint in the "slow-sailing" and liveaboard communities. The boat was a staple in the writings of former Practical Boat Owner contributors, who often cited the 32-foot MacWesters as the entry point for blue-water cruising on a budget. The model has also gained modern visibility through YouTube sailing channels like Polar Seal, which featured a detailed tour of a 1974 MacWester Wight named Roamer, showcasing its viability as a full-time residence.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Wight Mk II with an awareness of its age and the construction methods of the 1970s.

• Osmosis: Like many early GRP boats, "MacWester pox" (osmosis) is a common find. While rarely structural on these thick hulls, it is a significant factor in valuation and maintenance planning.
• Gate Valves: The technical library of the MacWester Owners Association notes that the original brass gate valves used for seacocks are prone to failure and should be replaced with modern bronze or DZR ball valves.
• Deck Integrity: While the hulls are solid, the decks were often a sandwich construction. Areas around stanchion bases and the windlass should be checked for "sponginess," which indicates water ingress and core rot.
• Engine Access: While the center cockpit provides good top-down access to the engine (originally often Volvo MD2B or Perkins units), side access can be cramped, making peripheral maintenance difficult.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and historical data is the MacWester Owners Association. This group maintains an extensive technical library that includes original rigging plans from the designer, C.S.J. Roy, and guides for specific modifications such as fitting bowsprits or converting mizzens to gaff rigs.

The Verdict

The MacWester Wight Mk II 32 is a rugged, honest cruiser that trades performance for security and living space. It remains an excellent choice for coastal exploration and tidal drying-out, provided the owner is not in a hurry to reach their destination.

Pros

• Exceptional Stability: A very stiff boat that handles heavy weather with ease.
• Volume: Remarkable interior space and headroom for a 32-foot vessel.
• Tidal Versatility: Bilge keels allow the boat to sit upright in drying harbors, saving on mooring fees.

Cons

• Slow Performance: Requires significant wind to reach hull speed and lacks windward agility.
• Aging Systems: Most examples require updates to original wiring, plumbing, and engines.
• Leeway: The twin-keel design results in noticeable sideways drift when tacking into the wind.