Spirit 32 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Spirit 32 is widely recognized for its pedigree as a Van de Stadt Design, a firm famous for pioneering the transition from heavy displacement to modern, efficient hull forms. The boat typically features a fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, a configuration that provides a high degree of maneuverability in tight quarters and responsive feedback at the helm. Its performance is characterized by a high ballast ratio, which allows the vessel to carry its sail area longer than many of its contemporaries before needing to reef.

On the water, the Spirit 32 is known for its "stiff" sailing characteristics, meaning it resists excessive heeling in a breeze, providing a sense of security for coastal cruising. The hull's narrow entry allows it to punch through head seas without the slamming often associated with flatter-bottomed modern designs. While it may lack the sheer surfing potential of a modern lightweight racer, its ability to maintain a high average speed across a variety of conditions makes it a favored choice for offshore passage-making among European owners.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Spirit 32 is a reflection of its era, prioritizing functionality and the warmth of traditional joinery. The layout generally follows a standard offshore arrangement: a V-berth forward, a central saloon with a folding table, and a galley and navigation station situated near the companionway for better ventilation and communication with the helm. The use of high-quality teak veneers was a hallmark of the Boom shipyard, and many vessels have retained a high-luster finish decades after their launch.

There were subtle variations during the production run, particularly concerning the aft section of the boat. Some models were configured with a dedicated aft quarter berth on the port side, while others utilized that space for increased cockpit locker storage. The sibling models in the range, such as the smaller Spirit 28 and the larger Spirit 36, share this design language, but the 32 is frequently cited by owners as the most balanced iteration, offering standing headroom for sailors up to approximately 6'1" (1.85m) without compromising the boat's sleek exterior profile.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Spirit 32 should focus their surveys on several age-related areas common to GRP yachts from the 1980s.

• Deck Hardware Bedding: The aluminum toe rails and stanchion bases are known to develop slow leaks over time as the original bedding compound dries out. If left unaddressed, this can lead to saturation of the balsa or foam core in the deck.
• Rudder Bearings: Because the Spirit 32 uses a spade rudder, the bearings are subject to significant lateral loads. Any "thumping" felt through the tiller or wheel while sailing should be investigated as a sign of worn bushings.
• Engine Maintenance: Many Spirit 32s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta or Bukh diesel engines. While these are reliable units, parts for older Bukh models can be expensive and harder to source outside of Northern Europe.
• Chainplate Inspection: The shroud chainplates are bolted through the bulkheads. These should be checked for signs of water ingress, which can rot the structural plywood of the bulkhead and compromise the rig's tension.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical information and historical documentation is the Spirit Yachts Owners Association (Spirit Yacht Club), which remains active in the Netherlands and Belgium. This group maintains archives of original manuals and rigging schedules for the Spirit 24, 28, 32, and 36 models. Technical support is also frequently found through the broader Van de Stadt design community, as many of the Spirit 32's components were standardized across other designs from the same office.

The Verdict

The Spirit 32 is a conservative but highly capable cruiser that offers a level of build quality often missing from modern entry-level yachts. It is an ideal vessel for a couple or small family looking for a seaworthy boat that can handle offshore conditions with grace.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Superior GRP lay-up and interior joinery compared to many contemporary production boats.
• Seaworthy Design: Van de Stadt hull form ensures balanced handling and good windward performance.
• Timeless Aesthetics: A classic profile that has aged significantly better than the "wedge-shaped" designs of the following decade.

Cons:

• Limited Market Presence: Harder to find outside of Northern Europe (Belgium, Netherlands, Germany).
• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers should expect to re-bed deck hardware and possibly update original electronics or plumbing.
• Brand Confusion: Often requires explanation to distinguish it from the unrelated UK-based luxury builder of the same name.