1972 Contessa 32 | Exceptional Single-Owner Example of a True Offshore ClassicCOSANTES 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. Currently lying in Itchenor, West Sussex. Construction Navy Blue GRP hullPale Blue GRP integrated non-slip deckPale Blue and White GRP superstructureFin keel with encapsulated lead ballastSkeg-hung rudderTiller steering2016 last structural survey2 coats Micron 350 antifouling May 2026Osmosis treatment completed late 1990s / early 2000s2023 serviced and checked seacocks Machinery 1997 Beta Marine BD 722 20 hp diesel engineFreshwater cooledShaft drive transmissionFixed propeller2026 last engine serviceAnnually serviced and winterised engine Electrics 12v onboard systemBattery monitor2 x Varta batteries 2020Engine charged battery systemCombined domestic and engine battery arrangement Tankage 30 litre stainless steel fuel tank55 litre GRP water tank Accommodation Sleeps 2 in forward cabin, 3 in saloon and 1 in pilot berthHeads with Manual flush WC1.98m approximate headroomTeak varnished interior joineryCream original upholsteryNavigation desk Domestic Plastimo gas cooker2 Burner hobOven fittedGrill fittedFitted fridge2 x stainless steel sinks Deck Plough anchor with 30m anchor chain6 x mooring warps6 x fendersSprayhood fittedSun awning fittedBoat hook included Navigation Raymarine speed/log systemRaymarine depth sounderRaymarine Smartpilot autopilotI-Com VHF radioFuruno GPS Navigator 30/35Clipper GPS repeater2 x Plastimo bulkhead compasses2017 Raymarine i50 and i60 speed/depth/wind system Tenders Avon Redcrest tender6 person tender capacityMercury 2.5hp outboard engine2020 last outboard serviceDinghy with hand trolley included if required Safety 2 x Fire extinguishersFire blanketManual bilge pumpJack staysLife buoyRadar reflectorEmergency tillerGas 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. Rig & Sails Sloop rigKeel-stepped mastZ Spars aluminium spars 2008Dyform / Compact Strand standing rigging 20202017 Single Dyform backstay backstay2020 replaced chainplatesSailtec hydraulic backstay tensioner2020 Furlex genoa furling system with new forestaySpinlock clutchesSome control lines led aft to cockpit 2 x Anderson 46ST 2-speed self-tailing primary winches2 x Anderson 10ST secondary winches2 x Anderson 12ST self-tailing coachroof winches1 x Anderson mast winch Sails WardrobeWhite sails all DacronMainsail – Slab reefing, Sanders – Good conditionFurling Genoa With UV protection panel – Good condition No. 1 Genoa – Cord for foil forestay – Good condition but well usedNo. 2 Genoa – Cord for foil forestay – Good Condition but well usedNo. 3 Genoa – Cord for foil forestay – Good ConditionNo. 4 Blade Genoa – Cord for foil forestay – Good conditionStorm Jib Light Weight Spinnaker – Good ConditionHeavy Weight Spinnaker – Good Condition
This 1972 Contessa 32 is listed for sale in West Sussex, , England. With a 32ft layout, inboard engine setup and new condition, this boat is suited to buyers looking for sail options in this location. View full details, photos and specifications for reference RB698418 on Rightboat.