The Boat
Contessa 32
Specifications
LOA: 9.75 m (32 ft)
LWL: 7.31 m (24 f)t
Beam: 2.98 m (9 ft 6 in)
Draft: 1.65 m (5 ft 6 in)
Windward sail area: 52.2 sq m (562 sq ft)
Displacement: 4300 kg (9500 lb)
Lead ballast: 2045 kg (4500 lb)
Contessa 32's are known as one of the best offshore sailboats in the world. They were designed by David Sadler in 1970 as a sturdy sailboat that could put out impressive performance in all conditions. The 32 is similar to the S&S 34, but with better downwind performance and a slightly faster design. Soon after they were introduced to the market, Contessa 32's developed a reputation as a boat that could sail well just about anywhere.
In 1979, A Contessa 32 named Assent became the only boat in the 28 to 32 foot range to complete the famous Fastnet race despite hurricane force wind and huge seas. Five years later, John Kretschmer sailed another Contessa, Gigi, from New York to San Francisco around Cape Horn the against the prevailing winds and currents. Several have sailed around the world, including a nonstop circumnavigation from California by Guy Druce. The Contessa 32's smaller sister the 26 was chosen by Tania Aebi and Brian Caldwell for their solo youngest circumnavigation records.
Given their extensive resume and outstanding performance, I believe the Contessa 32 will be the best choice of boat in her size range for the Solo, Nonstop circumnavigation.