1972 Contessa 32 | Exceptional Single-Owner Example of a True Offshore Classic COSANTES is a truly special example of the legendary Contessa 32 — built in 1972, launched in 1973 and remarkably still in her original ownership from new. Few Contessa 32s can claim such provenance, making her an increasingly rare find. Designed by David Sadler and built by Jeremy Rogers, the model earned an outstanding reputation for offshore capability and seaworthiness, becoming one of the most respected cruiser-racers of her generation. COSANTES has clearly been carefully maintained throughout her life and remains presented in good, tidy condition with maintenance fully up to date.
Her classic navy-blue hull, encapsulated lead keel and skeg-hung rudder deliver the balanced sailing performance for which the Contessa 32 is renowned. Upgrades include Z Spars mast and spars, 2020 Dyform standing rigging and chainplates, Furlex genoa furling system and Sailtec hydraulic backstay tensioner. Power comes from a well-maintained 1997 Beta Marine 20hp diesel engine with annual servicing and winterisation, most recently completed in 2026. Below decks, the traditional teak interior with original cream upholstery offers comfortable accommodation, excellent headroom and a practical cruising layout.
COSANTES is well equipped for coastal cruising and offshore passages alike, with Raymarine navigation electronics, autopilot, Furuno GPS, sprayhood, sun awning and Avon Redcrest tender with Mercury outboard. Her seacocks were serviced in 2023, antifouling renewed in May 2026 and previous osmosis treatment completed, reflecting the attentive ownership she has enjoyed for over five decades. Combining genuine pedigree, original ownership history and the timeless appeal of the Contessa 32, COSANTES represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Britain’s most iconic yachts in thoroughly cared-for condition.
Construction Navy Blue GRP hull Pale Blue GRP integrated non-slip deck Pale Blue and White GRP superstructure Fin keel with encapsulated lead ballast Skeg-hung rudder Tiller steering 2016 last structural survey 2 coats Micron 350 antifouling May 2026 Osmosis treatment completed late 1990s / early 2000s 2023 serviced and checked seacocks
Machinery 1997 Beta Marine BD 722 20 hp diesel engine Freshwater cooled Shaft drive transmission Fixed propeller 2026 last engine service Annually serviced and winterised engine
Electrics 12v onboard system Battery monitor 2 x Varta batteries 2020 Engine charged battery system Combined domestic and engine battery arrangement
Tankage 30 litre stainless steel fuel tank 55 litre GRP water tank
Rig and Sail Sloop rig Keel-stepped mast Z Spars aluminium spars 2008 Dyform / Compact Strand standing rigging 2020 2017 Single Dyform backstay backstay 2020 replaced chainplates Sailtec hydraulic backstay tensioner 2020 Furlex genoa furling system with new forestay Spinlock clutches Some control lines led aft to cockpit
2 x Anderson 46ST 2-speed self-tailing primary winches 2 x Anderson 10ST secondary winches 2 x Anderson 12ST self-tailing coachroof winches 1 x Anderson mast winch
Sails Wardrobe White sails all Dacron Mainsail - Slab reefing, Sanders – Good condition Furling Genoa With UV protection panel – Good condition
No. 1 Genoa - Cord for foil forestay - Good condition but well used No. 2 Genoa - Cord for foil forestay - Good Condition but well used No. 3 Genoa - Cord for foil forestay - Good Condition No. 4 Blade Genoa - Cord for foil forestay - Good condition Storm Jib
Lightweight Spinnaker – Good Condition Heavy Weight Spinnaker – Good Condition
Accommodation Sleeps 2 in forward cabin, 3 in saloon and 1 in pilot berth Heads with Manual flush WC 1.98m approximate headroom Teak varnished interior joinery Cream original upholstery Navigation desk
Domestic Plastimo gas cooker 2 Burner hob Oven fitted Grill fitted Fitted fridge 2 x stainless steel sinks
Deck Plough anchor with 30m anchor chain 6 x mooring warps 6 x fenders Sprayhood fitted Sun awning fitted Boat hook included
Navigation Raymarine speed/log system Raymarine depth sounder Raymarine Smartpilot autopilot I-Com VHF radio Furuno GPS Navigator 30/35 Clipper GPS repeater 2 x Plastimo bulkhead compasses 2017 Raymarine i50 and i60 speed/depth/wind system
Tender Avon Redcrest tender 6 person tender capacity Mercury 2.5hp outboard engine 2020 last outboard service Dinghy with hand trolley included if required
Safety 2 x Fire extinguishers Fire blanket Manual bilge pump Jack stays Life buoy Radar reflector Emergency tiller Gas alarm fitted
The condition or level of safety equipment on board is not to be negotiated on following survey. It is likely to be listed by most surveyors but is not structural or an integral working part of the vessel and is not to be used to further negotiate the price down after survey. We strongly suggest that for your own personal safety that when purchasing a yacht you provide new safety equipment rather than relying on second hand gear.
Should you become the new owner of this yacht then the responsibility to re-register or update official bodies for items such as EPIRB, VHF, MMSI or AIS becomes yours.
