Temptress 32 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Temptress 32 is celebrated for its balanced helm and exceptional tracking ability, a hallmark of Kim Holman’s design philosophy. Unlike modern flat-bottomed cruisers that tend to slam in a head sea, the Temptress features a deep-V hull section that slices through chop with minimal loss of momentum. This hull shape, combined with a heavy displacement-to-length ratio, provides a "big boat" feel, offering a sense of security when the wind rises above Force 6.

In terms of handling, the boat is a steady performer rather than a sprinter. It requires a decent breeze to come alive, typically finding its stride in 12–15 knots of wind. While the long keel makes backing under power a challenge requiring practice, it provides a level of directional stability that makes it an excellent platform for self-steering gear. Technical discussions often highlight the boat's high ballast ratio, which ensures a stiff, upright sailing posture. According to historical design notes from the Holman & Pye archive, the hull was intended to offer a "dry" ride, achieved through well-calculated flare in the bow and a high cockpit coaming.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Temptress 32 is characterized by traditional craftsmanship, typically finished in rich teak or mahogany. The layout is a standard offshore configuration of the era: a forward V-berth, a heads compartment spanning the width of the boat, and a main saloon with a central folding table. Because these boats were often semi-customized or finished by different yards, variations exist in the galley and chart table arrangements. Some models feature a dedicated pilot berth to starboard, while others prioritize a larger galley.

Headroom is generally adequate for sailors up to six feet, though the cabin can feel snug compared to modern 32-footers due to the narrow beam and significant tumblehome. The stowage is notably robust, designed for long-term provisioning rather than weekend trips. Sibling designs, such as the Northney 34 or the larger Holman 35, share many of these aesthetic traits but offer more expansive aft-cabin options that the Temptress 32 lacks.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the structural longevity of the GRP layup and the integrity of the original hardware.

1. Osmosis and Hull Blistering: As with many early GRP boats from the late 60s and early 70s, the Temptress 32 can be prone to osmotic blistering. While rarely structural on hulls of this thickness, it remains a significant negotiation point during a survey.
2. Chainplate Anchorage: The chainplates are bolted through the hull/deck join. Over decades, stress and water ingress can lead to "crevice corrosion" in the stainless steel or rot in any wooden backing pads. Inspecting these for rust streaks or movement is critical.
3. Engine Access and Replacement: Many units originally shipped with Volvo Penta or Yanmar engines that may now be at the end of their service life. Replacing the engine in the Temptress 32 can be difficult due to the tight engine box and the way the cockpit sole is integrated into the structure.
4. Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid laminate, some decks utilized balsa or plywood coring for stiffness. Spongy sections around stanchion bases or the mast step often indicate core saturation and require specialized repair.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Temptress 32 often find a home within broader classic boat communities. The Kim Holman Association serves as a repository for technical drawings and historical data for various Holman designs, including the Temptress. Owners often share refit logs and sailing anecdotes through regional classic yacht clubs in the UK and Northern Europe, where the majority of the fleet remains active.

The Verdict

The Temptress 32 is a "sailor’s sailboat," designed for those who appreciate the aesthetic of a classic yacht but desire the reduced maintenance of a fiberglass hull. It is a formidable long-distance cruiser that sacrifices interior volume for superior sea-kindliness.

Pros:

• Exceptional seaworthiness and stability in heavy weather.
• Timeless, elegant lines that stand out in any marina.
• Heavy-duty construction capable of serious offshore work.

Cons:

• Limited interior volume and narrow beam compared to modern designs.
• Sluggish performance in light winds (under 8 knots).
• Difficult handling in reverse due to the long keel configuration.