HELMS 32
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 32 ft |
| LWL | 25.5 ft |
| Beam | 10.5 ft |
| Draft | 4.83 ft |
| Displacement | 9,500 lb |
| Ballast | 3,800 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.8 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 40 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 13 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 35 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11 ft |
| FLforestay | 13 ft |
| Mainsail | 467.9 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 260 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 442 sq ft |
About the HELMS 32
The Helms 32 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising sloop designed by Stuart Windley and built by Jack A. Helms Co. (USA) between 1983 and 1985. With only 10 hulls built, this model represents a niche entry in the late-80s market, characterized by its substantial build quality and conservative design.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers who prioritize comfort and stability over high-speed performance, particularly those seeking a quiet, well-built vessel with a low production run.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 9500.0 lb and a low capsize ratio of 1.99, the Helms 32 exhibits strong offshore potential, offering excellent stability and motion comfort for protected coastal passages and short offshore trips.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 32 and O'Day 32, which share similar beam dimensions and cruising-oriented layouts from the same era, though the Helms distinguishes itself with a significantly higher displacement and heavier ballast ratio.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the HELMS 32 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 32ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
We don't have enough data on the HELMS 32yet to publish model-specific findings we'd stand behind — but here's a free general inspection checklist, built from our research into what actually goes wrong on boats of this kind.
Drawn from 7,029 documented issues across 2,391 models, ordered so the areas that most often turn up problems come first.
Own a HELMS 32? Reports from owners are what turn this into a model-specific checklist — and they're the reason the boats above it have one.
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your HELMS 32?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the HELMS 32
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…