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Sailboat Specifications

Westsail 32

Cutter · Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder

Designed by William Crealock/W. Atkin · Built by Westsail Corp. (Usa) · First built 1971

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Westsail 32 sailboat — on the water
Photo: Johantheghost / CC BY-SA 3.0
LOA 32.00 ft  ·  Beam 11.00 ft  ·  Displacement 19,500.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 753.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder
About the Westsail 32 Sailboat

Built from 1971 to 1981, this William Crealock-designed cruiser earned legendary status among bluewater sailors for its exceptional seaworthiness and traditional sailing characteristics. With 834 hulls produced by Westsail Corp., the design became synonymous with serious offshore cruising during the 1970s cruising renaissance. The boat's heavy displacement of 19,500 pounds and conservative sail plan create a remarkably stable platform that excels in rough conditions. Its long keel configuration with transom-hung rudder provides excellent directional stability and emergency steering options, while the cutter rig offers tremendous sail handling versatility for shorthanded crews. The substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio contributes to exceptional ultimate stability, making this design particularly well-suited for ocean crossings and extended cruising. While not built for speed, with a hull speed of 7.03 knots, this sailboat compensates with predictable handling and the ability to carry sail in heavy weather when lighter boats would be overpowered. The high comfort ratio of 42.85 reflects the design's seakindly motion, though this translates to slower passages in light air. For sailors prioritizing safety and comfort over performance, particularly those planning offshore adventures, this classic design remains highly regarded in the used boat market.

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Early Westsail 32s were sold as kits or partially completed hulls, resulting in highly variable build quality. Deck hardware backing plates, through-hull installations, and bulkhead tabbing are often owner-completed and may be structurally inadequate or non-standard.
1971–1976 models
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The hull-to-deck joint on many Westsail 32s was completed by owners or small finishing shops and frequently shows poor bonding, inadequate fastening, and water intrusion. This joint should be carefully inspected for separation and leaking, particularly at the bow and stern.
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Deck core material, typically balsa or plywood, was used in owner-finished or yard-finished boats with inconsistent quality control. Core rot around chainplates, stanchion bases, and deck hardware is common and widespread.
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Market Price Estimate Beta
$7,000 – $59,900
typical asking price
Median $29,900  ·  13 listings used (2 outliers excluded)
All listings
$7,000 – $59,900 13
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 32.00 ft / 9.75 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 27.50 ft / 8.38 m
Beam 11.00 ft / 3.35 m
Max Draft 5.00 ft / 1.52 m
Displacement 19,500.00 lb / 8,845 kg
Ballast 7,000.00 lb / 3,175 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 753.00 ft² / 69.96 m²
Headroom 6.17 ft / 1.88 m
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long keel w/trans. hung rudder
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer William Crealock/W. Atkin
Builder Westsail Corp. (USA)
First Built 1971
Last Built 1981
Number Built 834
Associations Westsail Owners Association
Related Sailboats Contessa 32 · Bayfield 32 · Bristol 32 · Downeaster 32 · Gulf 32
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Volvo or Perkins
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 36
Fuel Capacity 42 gals / 159 L
Water Capacity 80 gals / 303 L
Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Westsail 32 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.69. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Westsail 32's comfort ratio?

The Westsail 32 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 42.85. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Westsail 32 safe for offshore sailing?

The Westsail 32 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.64. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Westsail 32?

The theoretical hull speed of the Westsail 32 is 7.03 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Westsail 32 weigh?

The Westsail 32 has a displacement of 19,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 32.00 ft.

How much does a used Westsail 32 cost?

Based on 13 recent market listings, used Westsail 32 sailboats typically sell for between $7,000 and $59,900, with a median asking price of $29,900. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.

Who designed the Westsail 32?

The Westsail 32 was designed by William Crealock/W. Atkin, first built in 1971.