Sailing Performance & Handling
The Sirius 32 DS is built for stability and sea-kindliness rather than raw speed. With a moderate-to-heavy displacement, the hull is designed to "shoulder" aside coastal chop, providing a dry and predictable ride. The yacht’s ballast ratio and hull form prioritize a stiff sailing attitude, which is essential given the slightly higher center of gravity inherent in a deck saloon design. According to historical technical data from Sirius Yachts, the vessel was frequently equipped with various keel configurations, including a deep fin keel for better windward performance or a shallow-draft Scheel keel for exploring tidal estuaries.
Under sail, the 32 DS is noted for its balanced helm, though the high-profile deckhouse does introduce a degree of windage that can be felt when maneuvering in tight marinas during a crosswind. The sail plan is typically masthead-rigged, often featuring a self-tacking jib which significantly eases short-handed sailing—a primary use case for this model. While it may not excel in light airs due to its wetted surface area, it comes alive in a Force 4 or 5, where its momentum and robust construction allow it to maintain speed when lighter coastal cruisers would begin to hobby-horse.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Sirius 32 DS is where the shipyard's craftsmanship is most evident. The layout is centered around the raised deck saloon, which provides 360-degree panoramic views through toughened glass windows. This design allows the crew to remain sheltered from the elements while maintaining a visual watch, a feature that pioneered the "inside steering" options seen in later models. The joinery is typically finished in high-quality mahogany or teak, reflecting the shipyard’s roots in bespoke cabinetry.
The 32 DS was built on the same successful lineage as the Sirius 31, but it utilized the hull length more efficiently to improve the flow of the living spaces. Sibling variations include the "Workshop" layout, where the space beneath the raised saloon is utilized as a technical room or a deep storage locker, and the "Guest Cabin" variant, which fits a double berth tucked under the saloon floor. This "mid-cabin" arrangement is a hallmark of the Sirius design, allowing for a voluminous owner’s cabin forward and a functional galley and head aft without compromising the social space of the saloon. Headroom is exceptional throughout, often exceeding 1.90m (6'3") in the main areas, a rare feat for a boat of this length.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When inspecting a pre-owned Sirius 32 DS, the focus should remain on the integrity of the deck saloon structure and the age of the specialized systems.
- Window Seals: The large panoramic windows are structural. Buyers should check for evidence of crazing in the acrylic (if not glass) or weeping around the frames, as re-seating these large panes is a specialized and costly task.
- Deck Core: Sirius uses a sandwich construction for the deck to provide thermal and acoustic insulation. Potential buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a percussion test around the stay chainplates and stanchion bases to ensure no water ingress has softened the core.
- Engine Access: While Sirius is known for clever packaging, the engine is often located under the saloon floor. Ensure that the soundproofing is still intact and that the secondary access points allow for the inspection of the stern gland and exhaust elbow.
- Rudder Bearings: Given the age of these vessels, the rudder stock bearings should be checked for play. Sirius boats are built to last, but the bushings are wear items that, if neglected, can lead to a heavy or "notchy" steering feel.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Sirius 32 DS benefit from the shipyard’s unusual longevity and commitment to its legacy fleet. Unlike many defunct builders, Sirius-Werft maintains records of nearly every hull produced and remains a primary resource for technical queries and spare parts. The "Sirius Owners Group" and German-centric sailing forums are the primary hubs for technical exchange, where owners discuss everything from interior varnishing to the installation of modern navigation electronics in the original console.
The Verdict
The Sirius 32 DS remains a highly sought-after vessel on the secondary market, often fetching prices significantly higher than mass-produced cruisers of the same era due to its superior build quality and "all-weather" capability.
Pros:
- Exceptional visibility and light from the raised deck saloon.
- Superb thermal insulation and heating systems, ideal for high-latitude cruising.
- High-end cabinetry and semi-custom interior finishes that have aged well.
- Safe, predictable handling in heavy weather conditions.
Cons:
- Higher windage due to the deckhouse makes docking in gusts challenging.
- Not a performance boat; will be outperformed by lighter cruisers in light winds.
- Premium price point on the used market compared to equivalent-length hulls.
