The Nicholson 32 Mk10 Sailboat
Specs & Key Performance Indicators

According to the Nicholson 32 Association, 369 Nicholson 32s were built between 1963 and 1981. The boats went through 11 model upgrades, from Mk I to Mk XI, with various changes to the hull, deck, cockpit, rig, engine, interior and windows. Some of the most noticeable differences are the raised freeboard and lowered coachroof of the Mk X and XI models, the enlarged cockpit and centreline companionway of the Mk X models, and the different window shapes of the Mk I to VIII and Mk X and XI models.

The Nicholson 32 has a length overall of 9.75m (32ft) for the Mk I to IX models and 10m (33ft) for the Mk X and XI models. The beam is 2.82m (9ft 3in) and the draft is 1.68m (5ft 6in). The displacement is around 6.5 tonnes (14,330 lbs) and the ballast is around 3.2 tonnes (7,055 lbs). The sail area is around 46 sq m (495 sq ft).

The Nicholson 32 is a lovely boat to sail, with a sea-kindly motion, good stability and balance, and a moderate speed. It can handle rough weather well and has a good track record of ocean crossings. It is not very agile or fast in light winds or tight manoeuvres, but it can be improved with a larger genoa or a bowsprit. The original engine was a BMC 1.5 diesel with 35hp, which was adequate but noisy and smoky. Many owners have replaced it with more modern and reliable engines, such as Beta or Yanmar.

Some of the advantages of owning a Nicholson 32 are:

• It is a beautiful boat with classic lines and a timeless appeal.
• It is well-built, strong and durable, with a high-quality finish.
• It is comfortable and spacious inside, with a traditional layout and plenty of storage.
• It is easy to handle and maintain, with simple systems and fittings.
• It is affordable and holds its value well, with a loyal following and an active association.

Some of the disadvantages of owning a Nicholson 32 are:

• It is prone to osmosis and may require peeling, drying and re-gelling.
• It has a low freeboard and may take water over the toe-rails or windows in heavy seas.
• It has a limited headroom of around 1.8m (5ft 11in) in the saloon and less in the forecabin.
• It has a small cockpit that can be wet and cramped for more than two people.
• It has a slow performance in light airs or upwind, especially with the original rig and engine.

Some recommended upgrades for a Nicholson 32 may depend on the model and condition of the boat, but here are some general suggestions:

• Replacing the original engine with a more modern and reliable one, such as Beta or Yanmar. This can improve the performance, fuel efficiency, noise and emissions of the boat.
• Installing new winches or upgrading the existing ones to self-tailing or electric models. This can make handling the sails easier and safer, especially for short-handed sailing.
• Adding a bowsprit or a larger genoa to increase the sail area and improve the light wind performance. This can also balance the helm and reduce weather helm.
• Updating the electronics and navigation equipment, such as GPS, AIS, VHF, radar, autopilot, etc. This can enhance the safety, communication and convenience of the boat.
• Renewing the upholstery and cushions, or adding more insulation and ventilation to the interior. This can make the boat more comfortable and cosy, especially for long-term cruising.