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Westsail 32 Shipmaster Review | The Legendary Bluewater Cruiser Explained - ep 350 Lady K Sailing

October 6, 2025 · 9 min · 27K views · Indiantown, Florida

What this video covers

The Westsail 32, a 32-foot fiberglass cutter-rigged cruiser, maintains a reputation for heavy-weather capability and offshore stability. Designed with a 20,000-pound displacement, 11-foot beam, and 5-foot draft, the vessel features a full keel and a hull thickness reaching nearly one inch.2:32 While the design lacks light-air performance, its comfort ratio and predictable tracking make it a popular choice for long-distance passage making.3:01 Approximately 830 units were produced between the early 1970s and 1979, with half sold as factory-finished boats and half as kits, leading to significant variance in interior quality.1:37

The specific 1979 Hull 802, named Montana, underwent a comprehensive refit between 2000 and 2006, involving a complete stripping of legacy systems and structural reinforcement.3:55 Upgrades include a Beta Marine BV1505 engine, new bronze through-hull fittings, epoxy-sealed hull and bilge, and modern interior cabinetry.4:55 Recent additions include a 2023 Hydrovane self-steering system, solar panels, and a third reef in the mainsail.6:46 The vessel is configured for independent, long-term cruising without reliance on modern electronic weather forecasting or constant connectivity.7:36

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Boats in this video

Chrysler Marine 22Their boatHughes 35Their boatWestsail 32Reviewed

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