In Stock
Cleveland, Ohio

1981 Ontario Yachts 32 | 32ft

$18000
Well-maintained cruiser with newer sails, full maintenance history, and custom winter cover. Spacious, stable, and ready to sail!
1981 Ontario Yachts 32 | 32ft

The Ontario 32 was conceived as a comfortable cruising yacht for group of four or five. Her generous beam of 11 feet and flaring topsides gives lots of sail carrying power as well as making the interior very spacious. The fin keel / spade rudder arrangement was chosen to keep wetted surface at a minimum and to help light air performance.

Blue jacket could be a great starter boat, or a trusted cruiser for someone looking to for an inexpensive cruising sailboat that has been well maintained. Boat comes with a custom winter cover and, full maintenance history and newer sails.

Additional Description:

The 1981 Ontario 32 is a sailing classic that continues to captivate sailors with its exceptional design, solid performance, and undeniable charm. A true bluewater cruiser in its prime, this 32-foot sailboat combines a well-balanced hull with a practical interior, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned sailors and those looking for a reliable, yet affordable, entry into the world of cruising.

Launched in the early ’80s by Ontario Yachts, the Ontario 32 was built to stand the test of time. Nearly four decades later, it remains a beloved vessel in the sailing community for its ease of handling, solid construction, and comfortable living spaces. With its timeless lines, rugged build, and seaworthy design, the 1981 Ontario 32 is a yacht that holds up beautifully in the modern world of cruising.

Design and Build: Classic and Seaworthy

The Ontario 32 features a moderate displacement hull designed by George Cuthbertson of Cuthbertson & Cassian, known for his focus on creating boats that balance performance with comfort. The hull is solidly built with a fiberglass layup, giving the boat durability and strength. With a length overall (LOA) of 32 feet, a beam of 9 feet 8 inches, and a draft of 5 feet, the Ontario 32 is an ideal size for a variety of sailing conditions—from coastal cruising to weekend getaways.

One of the key design elements of the Ontario 32 is its long, full keel, which provides excellent stability and makes for predictable, responsive handling. This design allows the boat to perform well even in heavier seas, making it a great choice for sailors who value a reliable cruiser with a bit of character. The boat’s moderate displacement gives it a comfortable, balanced ride without sacrificing speed—ideal for those looking to cruise at a comfortable pace or take on more adventurous passages.

While the Ontario 32 was built for performance, it was also designed with safety and comfort in mind. The deep cockpit provides protection from the elements while underway, and the boat’s lines are clean and simple, making her easy to handle for short-handed crews or solo sailors.

Interior: A Cozy, Practical Cruiser

Below deck, the Ontario 32 offers a well-thought-out interior that maximizes space without sacrificing comfort. The cabin is finished in warm, rich wood, giving the interior a traditional, inviting feel. The layout is functional and efficient, with a large saloon, a forward V-berth, and an aft quarter berth—making it an ideal setup for a couple or small family.

The main salon features a settee to port and starboard, with a folding table at the center, providing ample seating for meals or relaxing. The boat’s galley is compact but fully functional, with a two-burner stove, a small refrigerator, and a sink, giving you all the essentials for preparing meals onboard. The head, located forward of the galley, is well-appointed with a marine toilet, shower, and vanity, making it ideal for extended cruising.

The V-berth forward offers a comfortable sleeping area, while the aft quarter berth provides an additional private space for rest or storage. Overall, the Ontario 32 is designed to feel spacious despite its 32-foot length, offering a surprising amount of room for a boat of its size. There’s also generous storage throughout the boat, making it well-suited for longer trips or extended cruising.

Performance: A Well-Balanced Sailboat

Under sail, the Ontario 32 offers a solid, responsive ride. With a masthead rig, a large genoa, and a mainsail, the boat has plenty of sail area for catching the wind, and the rig is designed for easy handling by a small crew. Whether you’re sailing in light winds or tackling stronger gusts, the Ontario 32 is easy to balance and offers great control. The long keel adds stability and makes the boat forgiving in a variety of conditions, while the efficient sail plan and manageable size make her an excellent choice for coastal cruising or more ambitious offshore passages.

The boat’s moderate displacement and manageable size also mean that she’s easy to dock and maneuver, even in tighter spaces. The rudder is responsive, and the helm provides good feedback, making the boat enjoyable to sail in all types of conditions.

The Ontario 32’s engine—typically a 20 to 25 horsepower inboard diesel—is reliable and provides enough power for docking or motoring through light winds. While the boat is clearly a sailing vessel at heart, the engine ensures you won’t be stuck when the wind dies down or when you need to make time to your next destination.

A Boat for the Long Haul

The 1981 Ontario 32 is more than just a boat—it’s an enduring testament to the art of boatbuilding. The strong construction, reliable performance, and classic design make this sailboat a true favorite among cruising enthusiasts, especially those who value simplicity and durability.

For sailors seeking an affordable cruiser that offers plenty of potential for long-term cruising or weekend escapes, the Ontario 32 provides an excellent option. It’s a boat that has stood the test of time and will continue to provide enjoyment for years to come. Whether you’re a first-time boat owner or a seasoned sailor looking for a dependable cruiser, the Ontario 32 offers a timeless combination of performance, comfort, and value.

Specifications:

  • Length Overall (LOA): 32 feet
  • Beam: 11 feet
  • Draft: 5 feet
  • Displacement: 9,500 lbs
  • Sail Area: 379 sq. ft.
  • Engine: Typically 20-25 HP inboard diesel engine
  • Designer: George Cuthbertson (Cuthbertson & Cassian)

If you’re looking for a sailboat with a classic feel, solid performance, and a price point that won’t break the bank, the 1981 Ontario 32 is a vessel that delivers on all fronts. A true gem among cruising sailboats, it offers everything a sailor could ask for—comfort, reliability, and the opportunity to explore new horizons.

ENGINE
Yanmar
ENGINE HOURS
1525
CLASS
Cruiser/Racer
LENGTH
32ft