Looking at Wayfarer Islander 32...

[Max Sail]

Next up in boat shopping is an original version of the Islander 32 by McGlasson.

Anything I ought to be on the lookout for? How do they sail? Any input on how 'blue water' vs 'coastal cruiser' these boats are?

Thanks!

ISLANDER 32 sailboat specifications and details on sailboatdata.com

[Max Sail]

***crickets***

[snort]

Just an opinion, but I like the design very much. The only problem I've seen is leaks at the hull to deck joint towards the stern around the companionway area. I didn't notice too much else on the one that I looked at and don't know if that's a typical problem with this boat.

[Celestialsailor]

I think the Pearson Vanguard is a better boat

[Max Sail]

Originally Posted by Celestialsailor

I think the Pearson Vanguard is a better boat

In terms of performance? Construction quality? There is something about the wayfarer islander that looks unusually wide and flat...

[Celestialsailor]

Definately construction. Especially hull to deck joint. The Vanguard sails well. The Islander, I have never sailed. Where are you located?

[Max Sail]

Lake Michigan, but ideally would like to get a 'go anywhere' boat capable of passage making... Are these Wayfarer islanders generally considered up for the task of ocean crossing? Seem to have a reputation for thick hulls.

[Cheechako]

The Vanguard is beamier and nearly two feet more waterline, both of which are nice things in that size boat. Other than that they look pretty similar, low narrow stern on both... not a good point really, but nothing is perfect . Is the Vanguard the one offerred as DIY finish also? If it is, some of those were built without cored decks which could be a big plus.... Blue water? alot of similar desgns have done it. However that low easily submerged stern would bother me bit in heavy following seas.... Like alot of those long overhang/short waterline designs I imagine she will hobby horse quite a bit in a heavy chop.

[sailorchic34]

The islander 32, 33 and 34 are all basically the same. The 33 and 34 have oh about 6-8 inches added each to the boat's hull, but the basic hull form, lines and performance is the same across the group.

They are sturdy being solid glass hulls. In the case of my 34 the deck is solid too. They are not fast by today's standard and the cabin is cozy (read small) compared to newer vessels.

The rudder located close to the center of motion, tends to make the boat twitchy er that is responsive. On the plus side it can turn around very smartly. The wide full bow tends to keep the cockpit a bit dryer when going to weather.

The barn door rudder makes backing exciting if your new to it. Though it no longer worries me. On the plus side the cutaway full keel and aperture prop means groundings and running over lines are less of a problem

They are a bit tender at first but seem on rails with a 15-20 degree heel. Easy too sail and reef. With sails balanced they track and hold the line with little input at the helm.

The low freeboard at the stern is of some concern, though it makes docking singlehanded easier. Though the 32's cockpit is smaller then the 34's ( which is too larger in my mind). More cockpit drains will be your friend there. The standard two will not be enough. Mine has four. Its not a perfect design for sure. more state of the art circa 1950

Can the boat cross oceans, yes, but tankage may not be up to par. I would have no worries about heading to the crib, or across the pond in a well found Islander 32 to 34. BTW I love my 34.

[Max Sail]

Thanks for the input!

[Cheechako]

Originally Posted by Cheechako

The Vanguard is beamier and nearly two feet more waterline, both of which are nice things in that size boat. Other than that they look pretty similar, low narrow stern on both... not a good point really, but nothing is perfect . Is the Vanguard the one offerred as DIY finish also? If it is, some of those were built without cored decks which could be a big plus.... Blue water? alot of similar desgns have done it. However that low easily submerged stern would bother me bit in heavy following seas.... Like alot of those long overhang/short waterline designs I imagine she will hobby horse quite a bit in a heavy chop.

SORRY, I GOT THAT SWITCHED! Should read :The Wayfarer is Beamier and nearly two feet longer on the waterline.....

[Celestialsailor]

There's an old VHS and now DVD I think, called 600 days to Coco's Island. A pearson Vanguard doing an offshore trip. 600-Days-to-Cocos-Island - Trailer - Cast - Showtimes - NYTimes.com
It looks like "Sailorchic" is a good point of reference for the Islander's line. Here are a few Vanguards...
Phillip Rhodes Sail Boat 33' Pearson Vanguard Project
32.5ft Pearson Vanguard
1966 Pearson Vanguard Sail Boat For Sale - www.yachtworld.com
1964 Pearson Vanguard Sail Boat For Sale - www.yachtworld.com
http://www.yachtworld.com/core/listi...g_id=64229&url=

[Max Sail]

Unfortunately no cheap vanguards for sale near me, although there is a decent lookin Pearson renegade 27 with an outboard in a well for 5k at the same marina.

[245270th]

I have one for sale in Saugatuck MI. Owned her for 29 years and she is in very good shape. We have cruised with this vessel many times to North Channel, Green Bay, and made over 20 Lake crossings.