1990 Contessa 32
$59,000
Boat in San Francisco, CA 94107 US
Built in 1990
32
1 Engine (VOLVO PENTA)
32 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
NEW STANDING RIGGING & Running Rigging
NEW Mast wiring and lighting
NEW Main Sail
Fresh Engine Service
NEW Interior cushions
NEW Battery Charger
NEW Batteries
NEW Dodger eisenglass
Sailing dinghy with sails included
METEOR was designed by David Sadler, built in Canada by J.J. Taylor to Lloyds Standards. This Blue Water Cruiser is well equipped to go offshore or across the Bay. The Contessa 32 is modern classic, which has become the benchmark for seaworthy offshore cruising yachts. These elegant yachts are fast, comfortable, sea kindly and ever-popular.
1. The Contessa 32 has proven itself in extreme ocean racing
The Contessa 32 shot to fame in the 1972 OSTAR (Observer Single-Handed Trans-Atlantic Race)-a brutal solo race from England to the U.S.
"Assent," a Contessa 32, finished 4th overall, beating many much larger and more powerful boats.
Even more impressive: several Contessa 32s finished, while many bigger, more "modern" designs retired or broke.
This race cemented the boat's reputation as exceptionally seaworthy, tough, and trustworthy offshore.
2. A benchmark of seaworthy design
Designed by David Sadler, the Contessa 32 became a textbook example of what people now call a "proper little ocean boat":
Long keel, moderate displacement
Narrow beam by modern standards
Strong fiberglass layup
Kind motion at sea and excellent tracking in heavy weather
In an era when some designers were chasing lighter, racier shapes, the Contessa 32 showed that balance, strength, and seakeeping matter more than raw speed offshore.
3. Changed how people viewed "small" offshore boats
Before boats like the Contessa 32, many sailors believed you needed much larger yachts to cross oceans safely. The Contessa helped prove that:
A well-designed 32-footer could cross oceans, survive storms, and bring its crew home.
That idea influenced decades of cruising and offshore yacht design.
4. Hugely popular and long-lived
Hundreds were built, and many are still sailing today-some with multiple ocean crossings under their keels.
They developed a reputation for outliving owners rather than the other way around.
Even now, surveyors, sailors, and designers often point to the Contessa 32 as a gold standard of small offshore cruisers.
5. A cult classic with a serious reputation
The Contessa 32 isn't just nostalgic-it's respected because it earned that respect in real oceans, real storms, and real races. Its history is tied to:
The rise of modern offshore cruising
The proof of concept for small, tough ocean boats
A shift toward valuing seaworthiness over marketing specs
In short
The Contessa 32 is historically significant because it proved, in the hardest possible way, that a small, well-designed yacht could be a serious ocean-going vessel-and it helped shape what sailors still look for in offshore boats today.
It is considered to be one of the "bulletproof cruiser" family ⛵
- 12 V System 1 x 12V Group 27 Start and 1 x 12V Group 27 House
- ProMariner 30 Battery Charger
- 12V Panel at the Nav Station
- 12V Lighting throughout
- 30 Amp Shore Power inlet and cable
- 120V Panel at the Nav Station
- Single basin Stainless sink
- Ice Box
- Taylor kerosene stove with two burners
- Taylor kerosene Cabin heater
- Raymarine ST-60 Speed, Depth and Wind instruments
- VHF ICOM IC-M45
- Garmin GPS map 128
- Jensen Stereo
- FATTY KNEES 8' hard dinghy
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. Buyer should assume that items on the vessel at the time of viewing, but not specifically listed on this specification sheet, are not included with the sale of the yacht, and should instruct his agents, or his surveyors to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. Buyer assumes responsibility to verify all speeds, consumptions, capacities and other measurements contained herein and otherwise provided, and agrees to instruct his surveyor to confirm such details prior to purchase. This vessel is subject to sale, price and inventory changes, and withdrawal from market without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2/17/26 | Initial price | $59,000 |
1990 Contessa 32 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1990 Contessa 32
Customers consistently praise the 1990 Contessa 32 for its classic design, solid construction, and exceptional seaworthiness
Many highlight its robust build quality, noting that the boat handles rough seas with confidence and provides a comfortable, stable ride. Owners appreciate the timeless aesthetic and spacious interior layout, which balances functionality with charm. The sailing performance is often described as reliable and rewarding, making it a favored choice for both coastal cruising and longer passages. Overall, feedback reflects a strong sense of satisfaction with the Contessa 32’s durability, handling, and enduring appeal.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1990 Contessa 32 is a classic cruiser that continues to attract sailors with its timeless design and solid performance. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Sturdy Construction: Built with a robust fiberglass hull and traditional lines, the Contessa 32 offers excellent durability and seaworthiness.
Excellent Seaworthiness: Known for its ability to handle heavy seas with confidence, making it a favorite for bluewater cruising.
Classic Design: The elegant, timeless styling appeals to sailors who appreciate traditional aesthetics combined with practical functionality.
Good Sailing Performance: The boat offers balanced handling and respectable speed for a cruiser of its size.
Comfortable Interior: Efficient use of space provides comfortable accommodations for extended trips, with a well-laid-out interior that maximizes usability.
Cons
Limited Interior Volume: Compared to modern designs, the interior space can feel somewhat cramped, particularly for taller individuals or larger crews.
Older Equipment: Being a 1990 model, some systems and fittings may require updating or maintenance to meet current standards.
Heavier Displacement: The solid construction results in a heavier displacement, which can impact light wind performance.
Limited Storage: Storage space is more modest than contemporary boats, requiring careful organization for longer voyages.
Made For
The 1990 Contessa 32 is ideal for sailors who appreciate classic design combined with robust performance. It suits those seeking a reliable and seaworthy cruiser capable of handling coastal voyages and offshore adventures. Whether you're an experienced sailor looking for a sturdy and responsive vessel or a couple desiring a comfortable and manageable boat for extended cruising, the Contessa 32 offers timeless appeal and proven craftsmanship for a rewarding sailing experience.
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Address
Boat Location
Contact Rubicon Yachts about 1990 Contessa 32
3300 Powell Street, Suite 105, Emeryville, CA, 94608
Contact Rubicon Yachts
3300 Powell Street, Suite 105, Emeryville, CA, 94608
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