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Sailboat Specifications

Chesapeake 32

Masthead Sloop · Modified Full Keel

Designed by Philip Rhodes · Built by Danboats (Den) · First built 1960

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LOA 32.00 ft  ·  Beam 8.75 ft  ·  Displacement 11,500.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 468.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Modified Full Keel
About the Chesapeake 32 Sailboat

Designed by renowned naval architect Philip Rhodes in 1960, this classic cruiser represents the era when sturdy construction and seaworthiness took precedence over racing performance. Built by Danboats in Denmark between 1960 and 1965, only 95 hulls were completed during this brief production run, making the Chesapeake 32 a relatively rare find in today's market. The modified full keel design delivers exceptional directional stability and tracking ability, making her particularly well-suited for offshore cruising and coastal passages where comfort and safety matter most. With a displacement of 11,500 pounds and substantial ballast ratio, she offers the reassuring feel that experienced cruisers appreciate in challenging conditions. The masthead sloop rig provides versatile sail handling options and reliable performance across varying wind conditions. Her comfort ratio of 39.45 indicates excellent motion characteristics at sea, while the conservative capsize screening formula of 1.55 reflects Rhodes' emphasis on seaworthiness over speed. The generous beam of 8.75 feet creates comfortable interior volume despite the relatively modest 32-foot length overall. Hull speed capabilities of 6.30 knots align perfectly with relaxed cruising expectations rather than racing ambitions, making this an ideal choice for sailors prioritizing comfort and security over outright performance.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 32.00 ft / 9.75 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.08 ft / 6.73 m
Beam 8.75 ft / 2.67 m
Max Draft 4.75 ft / 1.45 m
Displacement 11,500.00 lb / 5,216 kg
Ballast 3,750.00 lb / 1,701 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 468.00 ft² / 43.48 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Modified Full Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Philip Rhodes
Builder Danboats (DEN)
First Built 1960
Last Built 1965
Number Built 95
Related Sailboats Bristol 32 · Westsail 32 · Nicholson 32 · Gulf 32 · Contessa 32
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Chesapeake 32's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Chesapeake 32 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 14.75. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Chesapeake 32's comfort ratio?

The Chesapeake 32 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 39.45. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Chesapeake 32 safe for offshore sailing?

The Chesapeake 32 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.55. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Chesapeake 32?

The theoretical hull speed of the Chesapeake 32 is 6.30 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Chesapeake 32 weigh?

The Chesapeake 32 has a displacement of 11,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 32.00 ft.

Who designed the Chesapeake 32?

The Chesapeake 32 was designed by Philip Rhodes, first built in 1960.