CHALLENGER 32
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 32.83 ft |
| LWL | 28.33 ft |
| Beam | 11.08 ft |
| Draft | 4.83 ft |
| Displacement | 11,000 lb |
| Ballast | 3,500.2 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.1 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 39 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 13 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 33.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 13.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 13 ft |
| Mainsail | 497.7 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 253.5 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 431 sq ft |
Engine
| Perkins | 4-10742 hpSee all 302 parts → |
About the CHALLENGER 32
Perkins 4-107 diesel available as an option. Challenger Yachts Corp. was located at Wilmington CA, USA and ceased operations in 1980. Not to be confused with Challenger Yachts Ltd, which was a Canadian firm.
Designed by Hector Ballester and built by Challenger Yachts Corp. (USA), the Challenger 32 is a classic 1969 masthead sloop with a production run of unknown hull count. It features a 32.83 ft LOA, 11.08 ft beam, and 11000.0 lb displacement, offering a balanced performance profile with a comfort ratio of 23.27.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize a manageable 32-foot package with a proven fin-keel design. Its moderate displacement and beam make it suitable for couples or small families seeking a classic sailing experience without excessive complexity.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.0 and a displacement of 11000.0 lb, the Challenger 32 is primarily designed for coastal cruising rather than extended bluewater passages. Its fin keel and moderate ballast ratio suggest it is best suited for protected waters and short offshore trips.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats from this era include the Cal 32 and O'Day 32, which share similar dimensions and target the same coastal cruising market. These vessels offer similar interior volumes and performance characteristics, making them direct competitors for buyers seeking a 30-33 foot classic sloop.
Performance
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 32.83ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 8 systems for the CHALLENGER 32, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CHALLENGER 32? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 10 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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Engine Parts & Maintenance
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Used sails that fit the CHALLENGER 32
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