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10 New Cruising Sailboats Under 35 Feet

• By Cruising World Staff
• Updated: November 3, 2020

It wasn’t so long ago that 30- to 35-foot cruising sailboats were likely to be the largest yachts found in many a harbor. And while 40-something and even 50-something footers are all the rage at boat shows today, there’s a lot to be said for setting sail on a boat big enough to carry family and friends, but still small enough to be easily maintained and handled alone from time to time. Small cruising sailboats are simple to dock or tie up to a mooring, and finding long-term marina space is easier as well.

Choosing a cruising sailboat, no matter the size, is a big decision. And it helps to have a trusted list of boats to get started. Here, then, is a look at 10 of the best daysailers , weekenders and coastal cruising sailboats under 35 feet that are all in production and can be purchased new.

Alerion Sport 30

A quarter-century ago, Garry Hoyt launched what would come to be known as the daysailer genre with the introduction of the Alerion Express 28, a boat designed by the late Carl Schumacher that featured a minimal interior and a large cockpit where an owner and guests could enjoy the simple joy of sailing. Traditional and lovely looking—but with a quite modern underbody and a powerful sail plan—Hoyt, ever the marketer, proclaimed the boat to be “the prettiest girl at the dance.”

Since then, a number of siblings ranging from 20 to 41 feet have been added to the Alerion family, including the Alerion Sport 30, which retains the graceful sheer line, oval ports and stylish overhangs of the original Schumacher design. Yet with input from naval architect Langan Design Partners, it also embraces a solid measure of performance-oriented DNA.

Read more about the Alerion Sport 30 »

Bavaria Cruiser 34

In every Boat of the Year contest, it seems, a boat rises up after sea trials to make a lasting impression on the judges. For 2018, that boat was the Bavaria Cruiser 34.

Says Boat of the Year Judge Tim Murphy, “The Bavaria was a lovely boat to sail. It has a single rudder, and she answered her helm just beautifully in the conditions we had today. We started off with around 10 knots of breeze that built to 13 to 15 knots. As a sailboat, it was just a pleasurable sailing experience, among the best we had during our judging. It was among the boats that felt like a really happy sailing experience.

Read more about the Bavaria Cruiser 34 »

Beneteau Oceanis 30.1

Sailed as part of the 2020 Boat of the Year sea trials, the 31-foot-3-inch Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 was the compact yacht best-equipped and spec’d out as a dedicated cruising boat, and not coincidentally, it was also awarded the title of Best Performance Cruiser for 2020. But don’t let her cozy interior accommodations fool you; this is also one peppy little vessel.

Read more about the Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 »

The 2017 Boat of the Year (BOTY) contest featured a stellar crop of crossover cruiser/racers; however, when all the testing was said and done, our independent panel of judges was sold on the Dehler 34, naming it the year’s Best Performance Cruiser. Designed by the highly regarded Judel/Vrolijk naval-architecture consortium, whose reputation was fostered by longtime success in international yacht-racing circles, the 34-footer combined contemporary good looks and a sweet turn of speed with better-than-average comfort and accommodations below. It didn’t hurt that the boat, nicely equipped at $215,000, was the least-expensive entry in the entire 2017 fleet. All in all, it proved to be a winning formula.

Read more about the Dehler 34 »

Dufour Grand Large 360

Dufour Yachts introduced its new 360 Grand Large model to CW’s Boat of the Year team in 2018 as a coastal cruiser intended for a couple or perhaps a small family. With that in mind, judge Alvah Simon found numerous clever elements to praise within the boat’s 35-foot-2-inch hull—a relatively modest LOA compared to the many 40-, 50- and 60-footers on display at the U.S. Sailboat show in Annapolis, Maryland.

Read more about the Dufour Grand Large 360 »

After a roughly 10-year hiatus from the U.S. marketplace, the Slovenian builder Elan is back in a big way. For the 2017 Boat of the Year contest, the company launched a pair of new boats in the States, including the Elan E4, a 34-foot-9-inch performance cruiser with an emphasis on performing, designed by renowned British naval architect Rob Humphreys. The brand has been in business for seven decades and lately is perhaps even better known in America for its skis. Not surprisingly, given its complementary product lines—lots of sailors are fine skiers—its boats are as sleek and sporty as its boards.

Read more about the Elan E4 »

Grand Soleil 34

Way back in the 1970s, when the well-known Italian boatyard Grand Soleil was just getting started, its first model was a Finot-designed 34-footer. With over 300 units sold, it was an instant success, and launched the company on an upward trajectory that spanned the intervening decades, mostly with an ongoing series of much larger, more complex racer/cruisers. For 2020, the builder decided to return to its roots with a completely revamped Grand Soleil 34, and it’s a terrific boat.

Read more about the Grand Soleil 34 »

Value. How does one determine it? Price is most certainly a factor. In the case of new boats, and our Boat of the Year competition, it means something more. As sailors, we wish to recognize good boats that not only are affordable but offer other, tangible rewards. The ability to get couples and families out on the water, to have a weekend escape, to take them on coastal vacations and even maybe a sabbatical to the islands, all without breaking the bank. For 2019, the judging panel determined that one boat had the potential to do these things better than the rest, which is why they awarded the Best Value prize to the Hanse 348.

With a price tag under $200,000, during sea trials the Hanse 348 wowed the judging team from the get-go. “In only about 8 knots of breeze, we were seeing 5.7 knots upwind and pointing very nicely, and even registered 6.5 knots once we cracked off,” said Tim Murphy. “It’s a pretty sweet little boat.”

Read more about the Hanse 348 »

Italia 9.98

Of the performance cruisers that made their North American debut in 2020, in terms of sheer appearance, the futuristic 34-foot Italia 9.98 was easily the most distinctive. There are actually two versions of the boat: the 34 Club—which is the cruising alternative, the primary features of which are its twin wheels—and the 34 Fuoriserie—the racing model, and the one we tested, with its tiller steering being the identifying characteristic.

Read more about the Italia 9.98 »

Beginning with the popular little J/24 way back in 1977, J/Boats has become famous for its steady introduction of terrific racing and cruising boats, almost all of which shared one main characteristic: They sailed like a witch. More than four decades later, having built more than 50 separate, mind-boggling models, the Johnstone family that designs, markets and sells the brand shows no signs of slowing down. Their latest offering, for 2020, was another fast and fun racer/cruiser: the 32-foot-7-inch J/99.

Read more about the J/99 »

• More: boty , coastal cruiser , new boats , Sailboats
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Thinking of a Shift to Power?

Tradewinds debuts 59-foot twe6 smart electric yacht, sailboat preview: dufour 44, new to the fleet: pegasus yachts 50, good bread for good health, center of effort, the halfway point: sailing to bermuda, st. thomas international regatta winners announced.

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Unlock Your Sense Of Adventure On Our 32-Foot Cabin Cruiser

Arrowcat 320 coupe.

Now in its third generation, the ArrowCat 320 express cruiser has literally defined the high end cruising cat market! At the helm you find the experience more refined, from the custom hardwood steering wheel to full digital controls and instrumentation and carbon fiber accents. Every ArrowCat power catamaran features our signature luxurious interior cabin with creature comforts other boat companies have only dreamed about. Add to this that the ArrowCat 320 is trailerable with a 10’ beam and your cruising grounds expand exponentially. Winter in Florida, summer up north and plan the trip of a lifetime around the Great Loop.

Specifications

Express Cruiser Catamaran Hull Planing Hull Design Twin Outboard Motors LOA Length over all: 31′ 2″/9.50 meters Length at the waterline: 25′ 11″/7.9 meters Beam: 10’/3.05 meters Draft: 20″/.508 meters Fuel: 196 gal/742 liters Water: 44 gal/167 liters Waste: 14 gal/53 liters Displacement Dry: 9,900 lbs (approx.)

Click here to view 3D model

The essentials - standard equipment.

• All weather bulkhead enclosure with locking door between salon and aft deck  
• Stowable companionway floor panels boards  
• Opening side windows  
• Hullside lights fixed (4)
• Fridge/Freezer: Isotherm drawers style or XL C130 refrigerator, stainless finish  
• One piece acrylic galley counter top with stainless steel sink, hot/cold faucet with four wood finish drawer
• Bedside reading lights with light switches(2)  
• Mattresses: one forward berth, one port side berth in the high quality foam with durable breathable fabric covers  
• 110v outlet, USB power source
• Automatic shower and sink (grey water) pump with manual override  
• Hot/Cold sink faucet and shower mixer  
• Fully equipped head: electric toilet, hot/cold shower, sump pump, sink, mirror, shelves, and vanity  
• Fresh water flush toilet
• 14gal blackwater holding tank self draining discharge (no macerator required)  
• Heavy duty three speed intermittent wind- shield wiper & fresh water wash system  
• Digital controls  
• Electric power assisted hydraulic steering. Helm pump, engine mounted cylinders, steering wheel, alignment valve and premium hydraulic hoses  
• Electric horn, ABYC certified
• Custom helm chair with flip-up bolster, slider, pedestal in matching upholstery with height adjustable pedestal  
• LED interior lighting: salon down lights (6), head compartment down- light (1), main berth lights, quarter berth light, walkway and cockpit floor lighting, spot light on the bow with dash mounted remote control  
• AFT deck/exterior, AFT overhead light  
• 12v accessory outlet and dual USB charging station mounted on dash  
• Battery management system: 3 independent battery banks, (2) engine and house battery. Emergency cross-over with automatic charging relays to allow engines to charge house batteries  
• CombiMaster 2000 watt inverter wired to AC/ DC voltage, battery state of charge  
• Electric water heater 6 gallons  
• Galvanic Isolator (30A)  
• Generator 3.5kw w/13gal fuel tank  
• Group 27 AGM start batteries (2)  
• Group 31 AGM house batteries (2) 220AH  
• Shore power 110VAC 30A inlet, (4) 110V outlets: galley top, head, 8-way breaker with shore/ship power interlock switch  

Fuel tanks 2X 98GAL, total of 196GAL Marine certified twin tanks with independent spin on fuel filters  

• Deck cleats (7), (2)-bows, (2)-sterns, (2)- midship and a deck cleat at windless  
• Deck hatches at bow for ground tackle access  
• Windlass Lewmar (7mm-1/4″) chain gypsy, foot helm switches on the bow, bow roller  
• Automatic bilge pumps: 1100ghs (2) 750ghs (2)  
• Aluminum Folding dive ladder (4) step count  
• Two aft seats with storage compartments with removable cushions  
• Fresh water tanks: 44 gallon USA FDA certified, 2x 22 GAL  
• Hot and cold water galley sink, head sink, shower in head, aft-deck shower  
• Raw water (wash down) and outlet fitting in aft deck  

Take It To Another Level, Enhance Your Experience With Our Optional Upgrades

• Tuna Tower with second stations control
• Hardtop rocket launcher rack – 6 rod holders
• Insulated fish box
• Offshore 30 gallon bail tank & high volume pump mat transom 
• Power socket for 12v electric fishing reel 
• Built in electric 2-burner cooktop 120vac, induction style microwave 
• Entertainment package – stereo AM/FM/Aux, Bluetooth 
• 2 interior, 2 exterior speakers
• Stereo remote located aft deck
• Sea deck for cock pit sole 
• Table base in cockpit 
• Joystick control – single station by SeaStar
• Garmin or Raymarine Electronics package 
• Dual display with charts and sounders, VHF radio at helm with 8′ antenna on ratchet mount .50/200khz dep
• Upgrade primary electronics to dual 16″ displays 
• USCG safety package
• Docking kit
• Anchoring kit

Smooth, Fast, And Stable Ride

Talk To One Of Our Sales Experts To Schedule A Sea Trial & Experience The Feel For Yourself

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RM 970+: our 32-foot / 10m sailboat

The ideal 32ft yacht for family cruising.

With the RM970, you’re entering the serial cruiser category! Conceived as the perfect family liveaboard, this 32-foot sailboat will be your best companion to create great memories.

Port-hopping in the Med, coastal cruising in Ireland or Brittany, whatever your sailing plans, the RM970 will take care of your entire family in an optimum comfort, by providing true sensations of a lively, fast, and fun yacht to all crew members.

“THE RM970+, a concentrate of elegance and performances in a 32-footer”

Bright and modern interior, where everyone will find their own place

The RM970 embodies the RM Yachts fundamentals: a large and soft companion way, a 180-dregree visibility from the saloon (for comfort, safety and natural light), a pattern of soft and elegant tones for the furniture, and a massive volume for a yacht of about 10 meters!

The standard layout offers two cabins: a large aft one, closed by a door, and an open one at the front. Add to these two lateral bunks around the saloon table, an en-suite head with shower and toilets, and a large technical storage area. Loads of light and space, for all family members to find their own space on board of this comfortable liveaboard yacht.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The RM970+’s hull has been designed for performance: volume at the bow and raised forefoot will increase planning capacity. Have a look at the numbers below, and you will see how her specific design speaks for itself.

Marc Lombard Design Group

Edouard Delamare Deboutteville

hull length

Single keel draft, twin keel draft, light displacement, engine in board sail drive.

Volvo Penta 20 CV

fuel capacity

Water capacity, holding tank capacity, furling genoa, asymmetric spinnaker, virtual tour.

Enter the saloon, find out about space and light, the soft and dry atmosphere, the perfect proportions of the interior of this modern 32-foot sailboat.

A powerful hull, with a modern and elegant design

At first glance, you can see that the RM970 is not the ordinary sailing yacht. Her hull volume, her raised forefoot, her reverse sheer line, her large transom, are many distinctive apparels of a performant yet elegant cruising yacht.

Certainly modern, and clearly seducing, the design of this beautiful plywood 32-footer immediately captures the attention. Then, you understand that this seduction is primarily serving performance and comfort at sea. Although she has been designed for families, the RM970 remains a seriously capable yacht!

GUIDED TOUR RM970+

Keep in touch' restons en contact.

We will send you RM Yachts News (Only) to make sure you are up to date. Recevez (seulement) nos infos, pour être sûrs de ne rien rater !

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32 Sport Power Catamaran

Discover a sea of possibilities with the Aquila 32 Sport Catamaran. This sleek and sporty model features several stand-out features and enhancements, making it the perfect platform for waterborne adventures—namely, high style, strength, quality, and exciting performance. This model includes a longer waterline length, resulting in an improved ride, comfort, and more space. The fixed swim platform incorporates a fully stowed “best in class” custom swim ladder for ease of access in or out of the water. And, with more space, you’ll enjoy your days on the deck or your nights sleeping below in the air-conditioned cabin (air conditioning optional with shore power or optional generator). Explore exciting destinations, enjoy dockside restaurants, visit local islands, or just relax and entertain family and friends aboard.

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The 32 sport in action.

Aquila 32 Sport | Sea of Possibilities

Discover a sea of possibilities with the all-new Aquila 32 Sport Power Catamaran. The Aquila 32 Sport features several new stand-out features and enhancements making it the perfect platform for waterborne adventures namely high style, strength, quality plus exciting performance.

Aquila 32 Sport BoatTEST

View a full, in-depth Captain's report and test video of the Aquila 32 Sport, by BoatTEST - the most credible, independent source for reviewing test data and performance.

Aquila 32 Sport | Full Walkthrough Video

Join us on a full walkthrough tour of the versatile and family friendly Aquila 32 Sport, featuring stand out features and enhancements making it the perfect boat for entertaining, visiting local islands or just relaxing.

Aquila 32 Sport Owners

It's our Happy Place

Meghan and Jacob grew up on the water and enjoy the boating lifestyle, one which they want to pass down to their three daughters. Listen to their story as to why they chose the comfortable and spacious Aquila 32 Sport for their family.

Boating with Family and Friends is a Breeze with a Joystick

Going out alone with children is easy and safe onboard the Aquila 32 Sport. Meghan shares her experiences with the joystick piloting, the easy maneuverability, and the closed cockpit - all stand out features that make the Aquila 32 Sport the ideal model for managing the boat alone.

I Don’t Just Sell Aquilas. I Own One Too!

As a representative for Aquila Power Catamarans, Jacob was excited when Aquila came out with this new smaller model ideal for day boating. As a brand focused on family, the Aquila 32 Sport checked off almost every box that this young family was looking for in a boat. Explore the standout features that convinced Meghan too that this was the boat of choice including enjoying the wind in her hair while riding on the comfortable bow seating, her favorite spot on the boat.

It's All Within Reach

Specifications

• DOWNLOAD SPECS

• Fuel Tank (Approx.) 2X 530 = 1060 L / 2X 140 = 280 GAL
• Water Tank Standard (Approx.) 110 L / 29 GAL
• Holding Tank (Approx.) 1X 80 L / 1X 21 GAL

• Standard - 2X Black Mercury Verado V6 225 HP
• Optional - 2X White Mercury Verado V8 300 HP with Joystick Piloting Control
• Propellers - Stainless steel

Take a Virtual Tour

Aquila Models

Aquila 70 Luxury

Aquila 54 Yacht

Aquila 50 Yacht

Aquila 47 Molokai

Aquila 44 Yacht

Aquila 42 Yacht

Aquila 36 Sport

Aquila 32 Sport

Aquila 28 Molokai

Aquila 28 Molokai Cuddy

A Better Breed of Boat

If you are ready for a change to a better breed of boat, one that offers greater dependability, more peace and quiet, more comfort at anchor and underway, come aboard the new legacy 32., performance & engineering.

Despite her beauty at anchor, the Legacy 32 is made to move and designed to perform.

Interior Amenities

Discover a luxurious and embracing interior with brilliant accommodations below deck on the Legacy 32.

Schedule a Test Drive!

There's nothing like getting a Legacy out on the water. Go ahead and schedule your test sail today!

Interior Gallery

Exterior gallery, specifications.

Despite her beauty at anchor, the Legacy is made to perform. With a deep v and wide chine flats, the Legacy is able to plane at comfortable cruising speeds. A ride aboard a Legacy is smoother, quieter, and more stable – and the Legacy is able to do all of this with an energy savings.

For complete specifications on the Legacy 32,  please download this PDF .

Technical Specs

• Legacy white iso-npg gelcoat
• Epoxy Modified Vinylester backup resin
• Epoxy Modified Vinylester Resin Infused hull w/ PVC foam core sandwich
• Epoxy Modified Vinylester Resin Infused foam core stringer system
• Modified deep vee/wide chine hull design
• LP (PPG) boot top
• Full Skeg protects prop and rudder
• Epoxy Modified Vinlyester Resin infused w/ PVC core sandwich structure
• Mooring cleats forward, aft and spring line cleats
• Stainless steel Chocks bow and spring line cleats
• Anchor locker w/ground tackle storage
• Running Lights
• Custom stainless steel mooring line hawse pipes
• Custom 1-1/4” 316L stainless steel perimeter rail
• SS handrails on hard top, port and starboard
• Compressed air horn on hardtop
• (6) stainless steel opening Port lights w/ insect screens
• Port & starboard molded steps leading to side & fore deck
• Molded cockpit seating w/ storage, forward facing
• Transom Door on centerline
• Swim platform w/ SS mount swim ladder
• Hot and cold cockpit shower
• Self draining cockpit
• Epoxy sealed and gloss LP varnished Sapelle toe rails and exterior trim
• Cummins QSB 380hp electronic engine and marine gear
• Cummins Smartcraft display
• 2” Aquamet shaft
• 4 Blade 5 axis CNC precision machined NiBrA1 propeller
• PYI Dripless shaft log
• Binnacle mount electronic single lever engine control
• Engine sea water strainer
• (2) 103 Gallon fuel tanks w/ 2” fill and 1 ½” valved crossover
• Racor Fuel Filter
• 6” Exhaust w/ two stage muffler underwater exhaust
• Electric actuated trim tabs port and starboard w helm controller
• Hydraulic steering w/ tilt helm
• Bow thruster w/ joy stick control
• Hot and Cold pressurized water
• 11 gallon hot water heater w/ heat exchanger
• Marelon sea valves on underwater thru hulls
• Automatic fire extinguisher system w/ manual back-up
• (1) 8D Engine start battery with emergency parallel to house
• AC and DC control panels with polarity indicator
• Remote battery switches
• DC breakers for electronics
• Emergency cross over remote switch
• 30 VAC amp shorepower w/ 50 foot cord set
• AC shorepower system ELCI protected
• Galvanic isolator
• GFI protected 110V circuits
• Combi Inverter/Battery Charger
• (2) 8D AGM house batteries
• Electric two burner cook-top with cover
• SS Drawer style AC/DC fridge compartment
• Large SS Gallery sink w/ single level faucet
• Solid surface countertop
• Built-in microwave
• Large cabinet outboard
• Legacy pull out storage compartment
• Built in coffee maker
• Head w/ separate shower stall
• Seat in shower stall w/ storage outboard
• Built-in vanity w/ sink and storage
• Stainless Steel hatch w/ Ocean Aire Screen
• Stainless steel opening ports (2) w/ insert screen & shade
• Cherry framed mirror
• Single lever faucet
• Shower drain sump pump system
• Fresh water electric MSD w/ holding tank
• Waste tank monitor
• Macerator for holding tank overboard discharge as permitted
• Holding tank pump out fitting on deck
• Overhead lighting and vanity lighting
• LP Finished anodized aluminum windows w/ opening windows port, starboard and center
• (3) windshield wipers w/ fresh washer system
• Stainless steel hatches w/ Ocean Air Skyscreens
• Compass, illuminated
• Stainless steel steering wheel
• Electrically adjustable Helm and Nav seating
• Engine hatch opens by gas spring linear actuator
• Settees convert to berths
• Storage beneath settee benches
• Large off set drop leaf table
• Helmdeck trimmed with varnished Sapelle
• Helm console and nav table, varnished Sapelle
• Varnished cherry interior
• Island double berth w/ dovetail drawers and storage below
• Shelves above berth
• Hanging lockers to starboard and port
• Shelf lockers to port and starboard
• Cherry hull sides
• Overhead lighting
• AM/FM/CD stereo
• Interior/Helm Deck speakers
• Solid Sapelle varnished cabin sole
• Solid stock cherry raised panel cabinet and passage doors

  C.W. HOOD 32  

This is where function and beauty coexist.

The C.W. Hood 32 is a “stand out from the crowd” sailboat. Light and nimble, she can climb to windward with exceptional grace. She is easy to single hand and roomy enough for a crew if she finds herself in a skirmish with her sisters.

This is a true daysailer. There is nothing onboard to distract from her purpose. A beautiful, comfortable sailboat with the finest pedigree.

S end us an email or give our office a call at 781.631.0192 to learn more about this yacht.

  RECOGNITION  

WINNER, Sailing World’s Daysailor of the Year, Boat of the Year Awards 

“When I first saw the drawings of the Hood 32, I was taken with its beautiful lines. I have been a lifelong sailor/racer and after a few years hiatus, was looking for a performance-oriented Daysailer. Working with Chris Hood and his crew during the building has been a pleasure. Now that I have sailed the boat, it is everything I had hoped it would be both in appearance and handling. It is a true home run!” – Dr. Frank Morse, owner

WINNER, Sail Magazine’s Daysailor of the Year, Best Boats Awards

“Quite simply, as a day sailor the boat is perfection… I have sailed faster boats, more sophisticated boats, more challenging boats, roomier boats, etc. However, I have never experienced the ease, performance, comfort and beauty of this 32’ boat. Easy to rig, easy to sail, easy to enjoy, easy to put away.” – Joshua Summers

Click here to read Bob Perry’s review of the C.W. Hood 32 in Sailing.

  Click for Specs...  

  galleries  , construction ​.

DETAILS & LINE HANDLING

UNDERBODY & TRAILERING

SAILS &

GENERAL GALLERY

VIDEO - Hood 32 "Ruby" in the Vineyard

Video - hood 32 "fireball" in florida.

C.W. HOOD 32' Fireball

13 Popular Full Keel Sailboats Worth Considering

Full keel sailboats are very stable and durable - they are great for cruising long distances. But there are disadvantages too. Let's look at what models to consider, and why.

Here are 13 good full keel sailboats that are worth considering:

Nicholson 32

Island packet 380, folkboat 25, cape dory 36, vancouver 32, tradewind 33, endurance 50, westsail 32, hans christian 52.

First of all let's have a look at why you should even be preferring full keel sailboats to a more traditional, widespread classical fin keel design.

Full Keel Advantages

As with everything, there are plenty of pros and cons on each side. Full keels generally provide better handling if the weather gets tricky, they track better, provide more stability downwind, and generally stabilize the boat movements better.

Furthermore, they are way more robust, thus less prone to damage. Running ashore isn't as big of a deal as it is with a fin keel and your rudder and propeller will be more protected with the mass of the keel in front of them.

Full Keel Disadvantages

With more mass and drag comes less speed. Plus the large surface area underwater holding the direction will result in a wider turning radius, which might be annoying in smaller spaces.

Fin Keel vs Full Keel: Pros and Cons & When to Choose Which

Fin keel advantages.

The largest advantage of fin keels is their speed. They also provide better maneuvering and a better turning radius.

Fin Keel Disadvantages

It is inevitably more prone to damage though, wear and tear will be a way bigger issue than a full keel. They won't have your back when a gust comes since the water-resistance to the side will be smaller.

It seems then that for serious longer passages, liveaboards, and long-term sailing, full keels are better. As long as you don't care for speed as much, but are concerned about the boat having your back, this is the answer. So let's now look at the superstars of the full keel universe.

The very prototype of a long-distance tough cruiser. It has been with us since 1963 and happens to be among the first fiberglass boat models produced on a mass scale. Nicholson 32 went out of production in 1981 and it was a model approved for the 2018 Golden Globe Race, proving that even older Nicholsons are still standing strong due to their toughness and ease of repair.

They were supposedly as durable as if made out of steel. Though I'll leave up to you whether you want to see that as a marketing claim or reality, such a statement can not be made without some base.

Plus the newer models have a lot of interior space, are manageable for solo sailing, and provide a sturdy ride to take one around the world.

The story here is similar to the above Nicholson - meaning that we are looking at one long-lasting high-quality cruiser. Not just because of this specific model's build - Island Packet in general was always known for this. And it is among the very few companies that, in the modern era, keep making full keel boats.

In other words, you don't see many shipyards focusing on full keels these days, so if you want one and you would rather go with a new boat, Island Packet will be one of the stops you will very probably make when doing your research.

If you are looking for reliable cruisers, you will like this one, since cruising is what it was built for, even if it meant sacrificing some performance aspects. It has a wide beam, a lot of interior space, all of the amenities a comfy cruiser should have, such as a big refrigerator with a freezer, as well as a fully equipped kitchen. The long keel here serves as a comfort helper, since, as mentioned before, it adds to the stability and reduces motion.

Not to sound repetitive, but the word 'reliability' has to be mentioned again. It seems that boat builders who choose the full keel design have something in common.

But since this particular boat was born during the Second World War and has been going strong to this very day, what other words to describe it? It has the Nordic blood in its veins since it was thought into existence by the Scandinavian Yacht Racing Union and since it prefers just about everything over comfort.

The boat is very stable, not just because of its full keel, but also because of its insane 55% ballast ratio. For those who haven't come across this before, the ballast ratio is the ratio of the ballast weight relative to the boat weight. So for instance the nearly 9 tonne Bavaria 40 with its almost 3 tonne ballast has a ballast ratio around 30 percent.

Thus you can imagine that a boat that 'wastes' more than half of its weight on ballast is serious about rigidity. These are performance racer numbers. But of course, if you are designing a boat that has to withstand the Scandinavian storms, you don't have a choice than to go overboard with specs. So if this toughness is what you seek, look no further.

...although as far as I know, all Cape Dory boats have full keels, regardless of their length. Their 36-foot model is just their most popular one. Cape Dories are known for their sturdiness, ability to cross the oceans because of their stability, and relative ease of handling.

They were engineered by Carl Alberg, who was inspired by the Scandinavian Folkboat, where reliability is worth more than comfort, or the interior space. This boat rocks a heavy rig for hardcore traveling, but its 1.5-meter draft makes it ideal for coastal cruising as well.

What's quite interesting about this particular model is that during its lifespan it went through very few changes. Boats usually evolve, sailors' feedback is taken into consideration for upgrades, but Cape Dory 36 remained relatively unchanged inside or out. This is a big compliment, since the brand started out in 1963, stopped production in 1991, and sold its blueprints so that they could be built further. Talk about longevity.

Let's progress in technology! Just because a long keel is an old-fashioned or more traditional approach, it doesn't mean it remains monolithic in its ideology. There were innovations in the concept, such as cutaways in the keel, to reduce the biggest drawback of this design, the drag.

So it only makes sense that Vancouver, a company that had distinctiveness and innovation in its mission and vision, would take part in this. Their 32-foot model that begun its lifespan in the early eighties, had a deeply cutaway forefoot, plus a rudder that was wider the deeper it was underwater, meaning its widest point was at its lowest point. This was to increase efficiency, and rudder response.

Technicalities aside, this boat was very well made, no corners cut, no expenses spared. This resulted in quite pricey vessels, out of reach of many, but much time has passed since, so today it can be yours for around 40 000 USD and up. And since the build quality was so high back then, you can still enjoy a proper boat, usually at a higher quality than boats equal its age.

The great thing about Australian sailboat makers is that they design their boats for long passages. How else would they get off of the continent? Freya 39 is a good example of this since it has not only circled the globe many times but also won the Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race three times consecutively. And that's a famously hard race.

The boat is built like a tank, with thicker fiberglass walls than you would find in its rivals. Despite that, its owners claim to have crossed over two hundred miles per day on it, a figure that is well known when it comes to this model. Which sounds plausible with its 7.8 kts of hull speed.

Its construction makes her one stable boat since it has been noted that during races, it was able to carry a spinnaker longer than its competitors, well into the 30 knots of wind speed.

The only drawback here is that if you fancy it, since it is so highly valued, and in demand, it will be tricky to find one to buy. And once you do, prepare to pay around 60 000 - 90 000 USD for it.

This one comes with a story attached to it. Once upon a time, a naval engineer Nick attempted to sail around the world. Halfway through, his boat gave up, which meant a lot of trouble for Nick, but he exited this disaster with a pretty precise idea for what his next project would be. He set on to design a boat that would be so sturdy that his sailing misfortune would never repeat.

Out of this incident paired with a smart brain, Wylo 2 was born. To make sure his design stands, after putting this boat on the water, he proceeded to live on it, while circling the globe a few times.

Others, seeing this success, bought his designs and they became quite widespread. As you might have guessed, this boat has a lot of space for living, for storing equipment and provisions, so it is comfy to live on, not only for your body but because of its sturdiness, for your mind too. These designs have accomplished some astonishing feats in all corners of the world, so if you put your trust in this design, you won't be making a mistake.

If I said this boat is sturdy and ready for just about any destination, I'd really be repeating myself now. So while that's true, let's talk about what's special about Tradewinds 33.

It has a rather small cockpit, so on-deck dinners while watching the sunset with the whole crew might be a bit improvised, but the space saved is used for an impressively spacious interior as well as a nearly flat deck. So moving about is a pleasure.

For liveaboards, this is a good idea, since storage space will be plentiful. Plus it's an elegant looking boat, with a forestaysail as a default setup. So rock on.

Time for a larger boat. So that if you want something that won't lack anything you might wish for, including space, I have something for you too. All Endurances are full keels, so if you fancy a smaller model, there is a way.

Even though it is relatively new, (you will find models from around 1995) it will make you feel like a medieval pirate, with its old-school helm, wooden interior, and a spacious aft cabin that has large windows facing back!

It is a proper bluewater cruiser, built in South Africa based on a famous Peter Ibold's Endurance blueprint. It sleeps a whole family, so if a circumnavigation with a few friends is what you seek, this is one for you.

If you are up for some single-handed sailing, pause here for a bit. Small sailboats are usually nimble, on the top of it, this one is also quite sturdy and stable, as full keels are.

You won't find much space below the deck, so don't expect to have a party of more than around two people, but at least it's a good looking interior, with charming round windows and many of the usual amenities.

They say that Mason sailboats are premium quality for a non-premium price. I wonder whether them being built in Taiwan has something to do with it.

Here is a quote by an owner of a 1986 model that says it all: "I am absolutely captivated by the boat and am not objective at all in my feelings toward her. The general construction is of the highest standard. Like an Irish hunter, she is a workhorse and a lady-maybe not quite as fast around six furlongs as a racehorse, but for the long pull, through timber, brush, and over walls, she is really something."

Now although this owner admits subjectivity, this boat indeed was built with quality in mind. Sturdiness too - not only is its fiberglass hull properly solid, but it also features longitudinal stringers to add further rigidity.

There is a lot of brightwork, which might sound nice at first glance, but since it requires quite a lot of maintenance, some owners even said they could do with less wood if it meant less upkeep.

All in all though, when it comes to getting a lot of boat for not a lot of money, this is it.

Does it make sense to even praise how heavy and sturdy this boat is built? Probably not at this point. Just know it ticks all the boxes. It is made of 12 layered fiberglass for Pete's sake.

The design was based on ideas of the Norwegian engineer Colin Archer, who made his boats such that they could withstand the northern seas. Pair that with the fact that the interior here is surprisingly spacious with 6 ft 2 in of headroom and you've got yourself one comfortable circumnavigator.

The issue stemming from the heavy build and a full keel, which is a slower pace, applies here more than usual though. This boat is absolutely reliable, but don't expect winning speed races.

Sadly, Westsail 32 was in production only for some 9 years. Sales were booming, they made over 800 boats, but bad business practices and cash flow issues resulted in its demise.

Not the author, the boat. If beauty and elegance are what you are after, this one will catch your eye. Just as was the case with Mason, these boats were produced in Taiwan. But since the goal of the engineers was to create the 'ultimate cruising sailboat' and they spared no expense, expect to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for these boats, even though decades old.

The gorgeous classical design paired with the high build quality makes these exclusive pieces of work, plus quite a modern one since they ceased production in the 90s. So if you don't mind the higher price mark and are looking for something relatively new, that will, thanks to the build quality, last you for many years to come, this might be your choice.

Full keel sailboats are sturdy. Not only is that because of the full keel which itself provides a lot of structural integrity. But also because the choice of putting the full keel in means you are building something that prefers ruggedness and reliability over anything else. So it is logical that the rest of the boat will be built in the same fashion.

So if you don't mind sacrificing the few knots of extra speed, if you don't mind the smaller pool to choose from, if you want a boat that will have your back in pretty much any situation and place you will choose to go to, if you want to sail the Scandinavian design, go for it.

Arthur Rushlow

What a great page. Both my wife and I sailed Faulk Boats out of Canada prior to our moving to Florida. Once we arrived in Florida we had a Soveral 26 built we raced for three years prior to my returning to College and now 5 degrees later I am an Anglican Bishop with no boat.

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You may also like, 5 surprising advantages of a full keel sailboat.

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• Sailboat Reviews

The PDQ 32: A Comfortable Cruising Cat

Fast and full of unique features, the pdq 32 continues to impress..

PDQ Yachts in Whitby, Ontario, Canada, launched the Alan Slater-designed PDQ 32 catamaran in 1994 and built 53 of the boats in the following eight years. Practical Sailor first reviewed the PDQ 32 catamaran in April 1997, which happened to be when the test boat for this review update rolled off the production line. Heres a look at what testers have learned from coastal cruising this boat for 18 years and from other owners who live aboard.

The PDQ 32 has proven to be a high-quality boat-bashing through rough seas without a groan-with bulletproof basics. It remains pretty darn quick (PDQ), outpacing much larger boats, and most PDQ 32s today sell for what they cost 15 to 20 years ago ($85,000 to $110,000).

Photo by James Forsyth

The PDQ 32 was kept lightweight- 7,200-pound displacement-through efficient design and the smart use of triaxial cloth, acrylic modified epoxy resin (AME 5000), Klegecell core, and even carbon fiber (in the main beam). As a general rule, fast cats have displacement-to-length (D/L) ratios between 50 and 70, and slow cruisers about 100 to 120. With a D/L ratio of 108, the PDQ 32 could be on the slow side, but the D/L doesn’t tell the entire story.

Its sail area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio of 19 indicates ample power to drive the hulls; the SA/D increases to 23 with the addition of a genoa. The beam-to-length ratio is 0.52, meaning length overall is nearly twice the beam. While some catamarans, such as the Lagoon 37 (0.60 beam to length ratio) come in much higher, this is a compromise. Ratios greater than 0.5 can lead to bow-burying and increased dockage rates.

Ample bridgedeck clearance and a good ratio of clearance to beam (the wider the boat, the more clearance she will require to avoid slapping) are vital; with 23 inches of minimum clearance over an 8-foot span, the PDQ 32 is nearly immune to bridgedeck slamming, the curse of catamarans that have accepted low clearance in exchange for increased salon headroom and convenience dockside.

Rigs on cruising catamarans usually look rather stubby, and the standard masthead rig on the PDQ 32 is no exception. With an I dimension (the distance along the front of mast from the highest genoa halyard to the main deck) of 40 feet, 10 inches and a sail area of 443 square feet, the PDQ 32 rig is a bit smaller than rigs on monohulls of similar length and has less sail area. For example: The Beneteau First 325 has an I of 41 feet, 7 inches and a 489-square-foot sail area; the Catalina 320 has an I of 43 feet, 7 inches and a 521-square-foot sail area. Also, the Gemini 105M cat carries 515 square feet of sail. However, the PDQ is by far the lightest of these boats, managing to still do well in light air and really scooting when the breeze hits 15 knots.

A tall rig was a PDQ 32 option, most common on the heavier long-range cruising (LRC) version. However, it has not proven to be faster through a range of wind strengths.

The PDQ 32 has a clever, unique cockpit design that allows three levels of seating-all under a hardtop. To help solve the headroom problem in the saloon, the companionway hatch is very wide and slides forward so that just aft of the dinette table, there is full headroom (6 feet, 11 inches) under the hardtop. When the hatch is closed (a rare occasion in most conditions, if you have vinyl windows connecting the hardtop to the deck), most crew must stoop with only 5 feet, 2 inches of headroom. However, when the slider is open, the saloon becomes a delightfully airy place.

Some owners have rigged mosquito netting from the hardtop to the main bulkhead, allowing for great ventilation, even on steamy nights. While the area is not very large, theres plenty of seating, good visibility on the top tier, easy access to the deck, and yet a feeling of protection and shelter.

This setup also means that foul-weather gear is seldom used, as the boat is easily sailed from under the hardtop, and the deck stays dry aft of the beam. In winter, sweaters and windbreakers are the rule in all but sub-freezing weather, since wind is effectively blocked from the helm on most courses.

There is no exterior brightwork-music to a liveaboards ears-and the handrails are stainless steel. The double lifelines, on 24-inch stanchions, have gates at the aft corner and sugar-scoop transoms. Cleats are 10-inch anodized aluminum.

Most of the sail-handling equipment is Harken brand: blocks, cam cleats, and travelers for the self-tending jib, mainsheet, and slider. Primary and secondary winches are located on either side of the cockpit, a mix of two-speed, self-tailing Harken 32s and Lewmar 40s. Rope clutches are Spinlock Easylocks. Some boat owners lead lines back to the cockpit, while others have twin, two-speed winches mounted on the mast.

The PDQ 32s pull-pull steering is by Whitlock. There is also a very workable emergency tiller, and jammed rudders are easily isolated thanks to access through a stern locker. Seacocks are Marelon by Forespar.

Factory ground tackle was most often a 25-pound Delta or Bruce anchor, backed with 50 feet of quarter-inch G4 chain and 150 feet of half-inch, nylon three-strand line led to a windlass and a bow chain locker. Cruising owners have generally upgraded to a 35-pound Rocna or Manson Supreme anchor and 100 feet of quarter-inch G4 chain, again backed with line.

Since these boats typically anchor in shallow water, this allows anchoring on all-chain about 90 percent of the time. A bridle constructed from half-inch line is typically used to secure the anchor rode, as the anchor rollers are mounted on the bows and the crossbeam is not designed for anchoring loads. Windlasses vary, but are most commonly vertical Lewmar Sprints with a combination rope/chain gypsy.

Tankage consists of a 30-gallon aluminum or polyethylene fuel tank aft of the cockpit, a 44-gallon polyethylene water tank under a shelf forward of the dinette, and a 30-gallon fiberglass holding tank that can be emptied offshore by means of a Y-valve and hand pump. The fiberglass holding tanks on our test boat have proven permeation-free after 18 years.

The gasoline tank is located in a sealed, bottom-vented bridgedeck compartment that can serve double-duty as safe storage for portable gas cans and propane cylinders.

The propane system is engineered to current standards, with a forward vented locker sized for two 12-pound tanks. Leak detection in both hulls is tied to a controller and a locker-mounted solenoid valve. Some of these boats have as many as four propane appliances fed from the locker-stove, refrigerator, water heater, space heater-each with a separate propane line.

PDQ thoughtfully located all through-hull fittings and head-related plumbing (except for about 10 inches of waste and intake hose) in a ventilated bulkhead compartment. If the hoses do permeate-as they did on the test boat (see PS April 2012 online)-the odor is isolated from the cabin. However, the holding tank vent is located in an unfortunate position, upwind of salon hatches, but this is easily managed with either proper holding tank treatments or a vent filter (see PS February 2012 and March 2012 online).

The contained through-hulls location proved its worth when the test boat was delivered shortly after its current owner purchased it in 2008. After sea trials, the speed transducer was removed and replaced with a plug; in the process, the O-ring was positioned improperly. Some hours into the two-day trip up the Chesapeake in December (think actual freezing water), the crew noticed a little water dripping past one of the head hoses. Investigation revealed that the forward through-hull compartment had flooded 2 feet deep. The crew pumped it out and realized it was still leaking, but rather than struggle with freezing plumbing in what had become gale conditions, they sailed the boat with the leak for two more days, because the flooding was so well contained. The boat has crash tanks fore and aft (the rudder post is in the latter), a glassed-in holding tank on starboard, and another sealed bulkhead before the cabins begin on each side.

The electrical panel, located in the starboard hull, contains numerous spare breakers; weve not heard of any owner running out. Wiring is well organized and labeled. An inverter with automated transfer switching feeds a 110-volt system sufficient for heating and air-conditioning loads; however, a generator is not standard, so you must be plugged in to shore power or invest in a generator in order to use them.

Batteries include three group 27, deep-cycle wet cells (or an equivalent bank) located in lockers surrounding the cockpit, which makes watering and replacing them easy. Most owners have added solar panels to the hardtop, and some have additional panels above the davits; 170 to 400 watts is typical.

courtesy of Brian Munroe and Lynn Bamberger

The classic PDQ 32 is powered by twin, high-thrust Yamaha 9.9-horsepower outboards mounted in cockpit wells. This central location, 12 feet forward of the transom, places the engines near the boats center of gyration, virtually eliminating cavitation in all conditions and offering the ability to push into 30-knot headwinds.

The LRC version of the 32 has twin, inboard 20-horsepower Yanmar diesels mounted under the aft-cabin bunks. (About 20 percent of PDQ owners opt for the twin diesels.) The diesels offer less noise than outboards and add just a little more speed under power (7.4 knots versus 7.2 knots for the classic), but they reduce speed under sail slightly (about 1 knot), due to increased weight and prop drag. The diesel-LRC version gains a little storage in the cockpit (the outboard wells) but forfeits the cavernous space under the bunks for a net loss in storage.

Whether this storage loss and the weight gain is a fair trade for better propulsion and more reliability depends on whether you sail or motor most of the time, so opinions vary. With twin screws, either version will spin in its own length, and backing into a slip is common practice as boarding the boats is easiest from the stern quarter. However, the twin outboards can be retracted, significantly enhancing performance. Plus, theyre less expensive and can be taken to a shop for service.

Owners of the classic PDQ 32 compensate for lost battery charging power by adding solar panels and a small generator. A rare few add wind generators, but it is pretty common to see a Honda 2000 generator on a PDQ 32. Those who have opted for the new, high-thrust 9.9-horsepower Yamaha outboard conversions can expect a charging capacity of 6 amps at 12 volts each. This, with solar supplementing, is more than sufficient for a cruising couple.

Headroom is 5 feet, 2 inches in the saloon with the slider closed), 7 feet, 2 inches in the amas, and 6 feet, 5 inches in the aft cabins.

In warm weather, the salon bunks become premium, comfortable in dimension and bathed in breeze from well-

positioned fans and overhead hatches. Aft cabins get stuffy owing to their location aft of the cockpit, but hatches provide airflow on even the steamiest night.

While theres a good deal of white fiberglass showing, the overhead liner is vinyl. The cabin sole is teak and holly. Plywood is used for under seats and bunk access boards.

The sleeping cabins are primarily carpeted and have cherry and ash trim. Each has a small hanging locker and several enclosed cabinets for stowage.

There are two private staterooms, complete with six opening ports, numerous cabinets, and cavernous storage areas under the bunk (on the LRC models, this is an easy-to-access engine bay). The mattresses take standard queen bedding. The salon table converts into either a king berth or two twins; there are several versions. We recommend adding quality mattress toppers to the bunks.

With so much interior volume-and no factory air-conditioning (or heat)-good ventilation is a must, and the PDQ does not fall short. Two Bomar hatches above the amas ventilate the forward compartments, and two over the dinette provide salon ventilation; there are four smaller hatches aft, and three in the cockpit. Smaller Bomar side windows line the flanks (13) for a total of 24 opening hatches and ports.

There also are four solar vents in the forward compartments and cabins. Additional light pours in through the smoked acrylic windows surrounding the saloon, providing a rare 270-degree forward panorama, sufficient for watch-keeping during a quick meal.

Galley appliances include a Plastimo propane stovetop, a microwave, and a refrigerator (either a Dometic propane fridge or a top-opening icebox with a cold plate). Because catamarans do not heel much, the propane fridge actually works well, even if its less efficient than an icebox.

While galley counterspace and stowage is limited (there is a large cabinet under the propane fridge, and the bilge in the adjacent cabin is easily accessed), PDQ has worked in a few clever aids such as a pullout spice rack, hinged cutting board, and many shallow cabinets. Its best to keep the gelcoated countertops covered to prevent wear.

Performance

The PDQ 32 is basically a 7- to 10-knot boat. Weve seen 14 knots in non-surfing conditions, using either a spinnaker or genoa, but we don’t recommend it. Although we have long experience with performance cats and know their habits, we only push for short periods and with full attention. We prefer to back off just a little, staying comfortably within the boats performance envelope and enjoying the day.

As a good rule, reefing begins at about 9 knots of boat speed or 20 knots of apparent wind to windward, starting with the main. The LRC model is about a knot slower. Upwind in sustained 15 knots true, expect about 6 to 7 knots with the jib and 8 knots under genoa. Beam reaching in the same winds, weve made 7 to 8 knots and 9 to 10 knots, respectively.

Most PDQ 32 owners buy 90-percent asymmetrical spinnakers for off-the-wind sailing. The tack is controlled with a 2:1 purchase tack line led to each bow cleat, allowing the tack to be moved from side to side to optimize set; it is generally centered through jibes. With a sleeve, setting and dousing the spinnaker is fail-safe, and the sleeve provides sufficient protection while the sail is stored in a bow locker, eliminating the need for a separate sail bag.

It is not hard to see double-digit speeds on the PDQ, but caution is warranted-in a breeze downwind, there is hidden power, and the tack should be kept to windward and the sheet well eased. The spinnaker is best considered a light- to moderate-wind sail, and returned to its bag in favor of the genoa when the true wind is over 15 knots. In a breeze, wing-and-wing dead downwind makes for solid velocity made good and glass-smooth sailing-what cruising in these boats should be about.

In any case, youll pass cruising monohulls up to 45 feet when reaching in a breeze, and pace 40-footers under most conditions. To windward, youll tack through a wider angle, but youll stay with considerably larger boats when the breeze is up. The PDQ 32s PHRF ratings range from 135 to 234, depending on equipment and location.

The PDQ 32 has a deeper draft than its big sister, the PDQ 36-3 feet, 2 inches compared to 2 feet, 10 inches-improving windward performance by a few degrees. Tacking though 100 degrees over ground is possible, if the boat is sailed well and kept moving. The profile view reveals that the keels are unusually far forward; perfect for drying out, but all wrong for tacking.

The keels center of lateral resistance (CLR) is too far forward, relative to the sails center of effort (COE), causing the boat to snap into irons and stay there if given a chance. Back-winding the jib to force the bow through the eye of the wind is a sloppy solution; the boat nearly stops, control is lost, and it may pop back into irons. Backing her to one side, wearing ship, is not reliable either.

The savvy PDQ owner has a different tacking procedure: Accelerate to maximum windward speed by cracking off a few degrees, throw the wheel nearly hard over, release the jib the moment it luffs, and dump the main traveler all the way to leeward when the main breaks (the traveler cleats separately on each tack-pre-set the traveler on the new tack down). Steer well beyond the normal 100-degree tack, placing the true wind on the beam, haul and grind the jib in as soon as it can fill to keep the bow off, and then steer back up to proper course and haul the traveler up as the boat accelerates. The process is simple and quick, once dialed in.

Because the CLR is in front of the COE, keep the traveler a few inches below centerline in lumpy conditions, centered when powered up on flat water. Never place the traveler over center, and always ease the mainsheet enough to preserve twist. Reef the main first; this also helps move the COE forward.

Some owners have added genoas to supplement the stock self-tacking jib. This is a real turbo-charge for the PDQ 32 all around the course, as the keels are large enough to support the additional loading and the genoa brings the COE better in line with the CLR, greatly improving balance.

Because the boat is catamaran rigged (no backstay, shrouds to the extreme beam), the genoa is generally rigged outside the shrouds and sheeted to the extreme beam. The resulting sheeting angle (24 degrees) is too wide for efficient windward work. A successful solution has been to add an inner track and a second set of sheets. The genoa is then sheeted tight against the hardtop, reducing the sheeting angle to 15 degrees and giving a good angle of attack without overpressing the low-aspect keels. The boat can’t point as high as a good monohull, but it can really stomp at 50 degrees true. When reaching, the outer tracks provide beautiful sail shape.

If youre a performance-oriented sailor considering a PDQ 32, look for a boat with a genoa and inside tracks. The difference is real.

Compared to other cats in the same class, the PDQ 32 is as fast in base form, and even faster when tweaked, something the strong but light design seems to encourage. Quality construction has proven to be a boon to owners as well. Sails and moving parts require replacement and upgrade, but the structure and basic systems have been bulletproof.

The center-cockpit setup is different, but testers like the privacy of queen cabins and the expansive forward view, something missing in most cats this size. The salon slider is a unique feature that allows incredible openness in warm weather, requires some stooping in cold weather, and is the cost of high bridgedeck clearance and superior helm visibility. All compromises. Among the few cruising cats of this size, the PDQ 32 offers excellent value.

• PDQ: Rugged Quality

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Best, detailed, comprehensive review that I can recall reading. Thank you so much!!!

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