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Hi would appreciate any information about Phantom 32's. This would be a first boat [other than a trailer sailor]; with the plan being to cruise the north coast of KI and Spencer Gulf and if all goes well up the east coast and down to Tassie. There's not a lot of info on the web about them so any comments would be welcome. Chrs Nik  

phantom 32 yacht review

Hi Nik, I really like the Phantoms. They have a reputation for being well built capable sea boats. Nice liveable interior as well for this size boat. The Phantom 33(An updated version of the 32) is a touch roomier and would be my pick, albeit for a touch more money. They also made a Phantom 34 which was the same boat again but with the sugar scoop, not many of those built though I believe. We looked at several Phantom 33's before buying our boat. There was a Phantom 33 that did quite a bit of sailing around the Pacific IIRC. Certainly capable of doing everything you want. Like most boats of that era in comes down to finding one in the best possible condition.  

chall03 said: Hi Nik, I really like the Phantoms. They have a reputation for being well built capable sea boats. Nice liveable interior as well for this size boat. The Phantom 33(An updated version of the 32) is a touch roomier and would be my pick, albeit for a touch more money. They also made a Phantom 34 which was the same boat again but with the sugar scoop, not many of those built though I believe. We looked at several Phantom 33's before buying our boat. There was a Phantom 33 that did quite a bit of sailing around the Pacific IIRC. Certainly capable of doing everything you want. Like most boats of that era in comes down to finding one in the best possible condition. Click to expand...

And welcome to Sailnet. A couple of us Aussie's on here.  

Best of luck! We were up in Lake Macquarie a couple of weeks back. Back in Broken Bay now.  

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phantom 32 yacht review

The Phantom 32s were built to high specifications in solid GRP by Nick Shein. They enjoy an unsurpassed reputation as comfortable, easily managed offshore cruising yachts and this one has led the way. She is Aust Registered and has cruised extensively including Melbourne to Nelson NZ then up the North Island and return, Melbourne – Bowen in FNQ including the Whitsundays, many Bass Strait Crossings, all through the Bass Strait Islands, Melbourne-Adelaide, South Aust waters & return and at least three circuits of Tasmania including one earlier this year. She has had only two owners since new in 1984 and her original owner enjoyed cruising aboard her for 27 years!

Offered with an impressive inventory including a later model Volvo Penta D1 20 3 cylinder diesel engine, HF and VHF radios, new GPS and Plotter 2015, Course Master autopilot, new Raymarine wind instruments 2015, Solar panel, new Smart charger and regulator 2015 ,new Windlass 2015, six winches, spray dodger, life raft and an 8ft Nylex dinghy, 406 EPIRB plus safety equipment.

Sails include a mainsail with 3 reefs, three headsails, spinnaker, storm jib and trysail. Her standing and running rigging were all renewed in 2013. She has a double spreader mast with fore and aft lowers and all controls lead aft to the cockpit.

She has comfortable accommodation for up to 7 with plenty of headroom, enclosed toilet, good sea going galley with lots of storage, a dinette table and a separate, decent sized, chart table.

If you are serious about cruising or just want a solid, safe family yacht for weekends away or twilight fun, then this is a yacht you should inspect soon.

For further information or to arrange your inspection in Williamstown, please call Chris Furey on 0410 551 977.

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Fairline Phantom 32

Post by stuart mc » Wed Nov 16, 2005 8:56 pm

Post by andisa » Mon Sep 11, 2006 4:27 pm

Post by stuart mc » Sat Oct 14, 2006 6:54 pm

Post by andisa » Tue Jun 12, 2007 10:01 pm

stuart mc wrote: Thanks for your reply, the delay in my reply is because my computer has been offline for a while. I bought her from Naburn and pretty much know that side of it, the info I wanted was more to do with the actual boat design/workings etc, I have done a lot of work to her in the last year and struggled through because of my inexperience. I have got used to her now and love her to bits but don't use her as much as I would like to, how do you find yours and are you enjoying using her on the humber? Cheers Stuart

Post by rob brierley » Sat Jun 16, 2007 11:02 am

Post by butlpau » Wed Jun 20, 2007 10:59 am

Post by andisa » Tue Aug 14, 2007 2:33 pm

Post by butlpau » Mon Oct 22, 2007 3:39 pm

andisa wrote: Stuart I have a Phantom 32 with Diesels. Its based ion the humber. Your boat was in Naburn Marina York for a while. Any help I can give, just contact me. Where are you based now?

Post by Babbels007 » Sun Oct 31, 2010 10:54 am

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Forums > Sailing > > General

Cavalier 32 or similar - 1st boat, nsw, 18 posts.

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QLD, 387 posts

Benjie Some general advice for a new boat from a Cav 28 owner * Good on you for your ambition - you will get a lot of advice, much of it confusing, however, don't let it stop you getting out on the water * Talk to as many people as you can, and get out on their boats as much as you can. The information you get from this will be much better than a forum chat. Listen to the folks at the boat clubs, marinas and ramps - most boats will be known to the "regulars", who can usually tell which boats have been looked after well, and which have not * Boat prices are inflated at present * Get a professional survey - a half slip and survey will cost around $1000, but it will be money well spent. * Either the Cav 32 and Phantom 32 is a nice boat. You'll get plenty of comments here about why you should prefer one over the other. However, no two will be the same. After 30 to 40 years of the previous owners' attentions (some of it applied well, and some not) you'll be hard pressed to find two that are the same. * If you have narrowed your search to these models, get the one in the best condition. Do not get a project. It will be more expensive, but it is a case of pay once and weep once. * Be prepared for time and money fixing the stuff you didn't know needed to be fixed at purchase (say, 20% of the purchase price). If you live aboard, its the seemingly small stuff, like a leaky window, that will consume your time and budget. When I was in your position a couple of years back (after owning a trailer-sailer) I followed the advice at the boat club about my current boat, which was well known by the folks there and was smaller than what I thought I needed, but worked out well. I've been wrangling an annoying drip from the Diesel engine for several weeks. Everything takes way longer than you'd think.

Select to expand quote Achernar said.. Benjie Some general advice for a new boat from a Cav 28 owner * Good on you for your ambition - you will get a lot of advice, much of it confusing, however, don't let it stop you getting out on the water * Talk to as many people as you can, and get out on their boats as much as you can. The information you get from this will be much better than a forum chat. Listen to the folks at the boat clubs, marinas and ramps - most boats will be known to the "regulars", who can usually tell which boats have been looked after well, and which have not * Boat prices are inflated at present * Get a professional survey - a half slip and survey will cost around $1000, but it will be money well spent. * Either the Cav 32 and Phantom 32 is a nice boat. You'll get plenty of comments here about why you should prefer one over the other. However, no two will be the same. After 30 to 40 years of the previous owners' attentions (some of it applied well, and some not) you'll be hard pressed to find two that are the same. * If you have narrowed your search to these models, get the one in the best condition. Do not get a project. It will be more expensive, but it is a case of pay once and weep once. * Be prepared for time and money fixing the stuff you didn't know needed to be fixed at purchase (say, 20% of the purchase price). If you live aboard, its the seemingly small stuff, like a leaky window, that will consume your time and budget. When I was in your position a couple of years back (after owning a trailer-sailer) I followed the advice at the boat club about my current boat, which was well known by the folks there and was smaller than what I thought I needed, but worked out well. I've been wrangling an annoying drip from the Diesel engine for several weeks. Everything takes way longer than you'd think. Hi Achernar, Thanks for that advise... I definatly will be getting a survey once I come across one that I like... I am slightly leaning towards the Cav 32 but I've still got aleast a month or so to go before I need to purchase as I would like to head overseas say around SEPT. If not then il sail locally and up to QLD for the meantime... How do you find the Cav 28? Do you sail her locally or have you done a few hops overseas nearby? I have seen quite a few online that come up and maybe more so then the 32... I quite like the layout of the 28 especially with the head toilet being near the cockpit. Although I do think it may be a little small for live aboard however again the layouts of a cavalier 28-32 are well thought out. One other thing that I prefer on the Cav 28 over the 32 is the tiller... On most 32's that I have come across, they seem to be wheel based... and id much prefer a tiller... (I wonder if there are a few 32s with tillers instead of wheels?) Benjie.

Jode5

QLD, 853 posts

Can not go wrong with a Cav 32. For cruising a wheel is probably better in the long term. The CAV 28 is a good boat, but that extra 4 feet does make A difference. CAV 32's had no major problems. They tend to wander around going down wind but that is topical of most boats of that era . Most had Bukh diesels which are pretty Bulletproof. The CAV 32 sails good in all conditions including light airs and are very good to windward. As an all round older boat they would be very hard to go past.

garymalmgren

garymalmgren

Hi Ben just a simple bit of advice. Try to get your hands on a boat that has already done something like what you plan to do. That way you will end up with the really important gear like extra anchors, larger fuel tanks. and lots of other little nik naks. A boat that has just sat around for ages and is going cheap might be a good project, but if you are looking at getting away in September you need to think about gear more than the head's location. Gary

Ramona

NSW, 7556 posts

Forget osmosis. Boats that age if they had osmosis it would have been rectified by now. I would suggest concentrating a search on yachthub in the 30 to 36 range. Use the Contessa 32 as the benchmark, it's the Rolls Royce of cruiser racers and consider other boats like the Nicholson 32 and the Miura 31 for your intended use. Nothing wrong with Cav 32s though.

jbarnes85

VIC, 290 posts

Select to expand quote Bennjo_1 said.. Achernar said.. Benjie Some general advice for a new boat from a Cav 28 owner * Good on you for your ambition - you will get a lot of advice, much of it confusing, however, don't let it stop you getting out on the water * Talk to as many people as you can, and get out on their boats as much as you can. The information you get from this will be much better than a forum chat. Listen to the folks at the boat clubs, marinas and ramps - most boats will be known to the "regulars", who can usually tell which boats have been looked after well, and which have not * Boat prices are inflated at present * Get a professional survey - a half slip and survey will cost around $1000, but it will be money well spent. * Either the Cav 32 and Phantom 32 is a nice boat. You'll get plenty of comments here about why you should prefer one over the other. However, no two will be the same. After 30 to 40 years of the previous owners' attentions (some of it applied well, and some not) you'll be hard pressed to find two that are the same. * If you have narrowed your search to these models, get the one in the best condition. Do not get a project. It will be more expensive, but it is a case of pay once and weep once. * Be prepared for time and money fixing the stuff you didn't know needed to be fixed at purchase (say, 20% of the purchase price). If you live aboard, its the seemingly small stuff, like a leaky window, that will consume your time and budget. When I was in your position a couple of years back (after owning a trailer-sailer) I followed the advice at the boat club about my current boat, which was well known by the folks there and was smaller than what I thought I needed, but worked out well. I've been wrangling an annoying drip from the Diesel engine for several weeks. Everything takes way longer than you'd think. Hi Achernar, Thanks for that advise... I definatly will be getting a survey once I come across one that I like... I am slightly leaning towards the Cav 32 but I've still got aleast a month or so to go before I need to purchase as I would like to head overseas say around SEPT. If not then il sail locally and up to QLD for the meantime... How do you find the Cav 28? Do you sail her locally or have you done a few hops overseas nearby? I have seen quite a few online that come up and maybe more so then the 32... I quite like the layout of the 28 especially with the head toilet being near the cockpit. Although I do think it may be a little small for live aboard however again the layouts of a cavalier 28-32 are well thought out. One other thing that I prefer on the Cav 28 over the 32 is the tiller... On most 32's that I have come across, they seem to be wheel based... and id much prefer a tiller... (I wonder if there are a few 32s with tillers instead of wheels?) Benjie. Just on the tillers. The older NZ version typically had a tiller. The newer Australian version had wheel steering. As far as I can tell. I own a NZ version. Its pretty old and crusty. I have looked at some Australian versions and they have moulded furniture and a V-berth and seperate toilet. They are a fair bit nicer and more comfortable. If I had my time again I should have spent the extra money and got one in better condition. Saying that I do have a near new motor. wikiyachts.org/index.php/Cavalier_32 See my above attempt at recording some of this information including some common issues. Balsa core in hull. Ply core deck. I previously had a Compass 28. Solid glass everything. For a cheap boat I would say these are pretty ideal. Not as much to go wrong.

Select to expand quote garymalmgren said.. Hi Ben just a simple bit of advice. Try to get your hands on a boat that has already done something like what you plan to do. That way you will end up with the really important gear like extra anchors, larger fuel tanks. and lots of other little nik naks. A boat that has just sat around for ages and is going cheap might be a good project, but if you are looking at getting away in September you need to think about gear more than the head's location. Gary +1. Good strategy

PS I should add that on a short passage, you will need crew. Its a safety thing, and I would not contemplate an over-night passage on my own. More experienced sailors with the right gear will feel more comfortable, but the key difference is experience and gear. I don't have wind-vanes, and the auto-helm will drain the battery if I run it continuously, which means manual steering*, which is fine for day-trips. I mainly use the tiller-pilot to keep the boat on course while I need a break to do important stuff, like having a toilet-break, eating lunch, phoning the Admiral etc. Although the boat is rated for 8 persons, it begins to feel cramped with four people on board for a day-trip. If you have been tiller-steering for 8 hours, you will definitely need a rest. Do the math on the shifts and breaks. (PPS * Others might post something about sheet-to-tiller steering - I'd like to try it some day, but without the experience and set-up, its not a viable option for me, yet)

Select to expand quote Achernar said.. PS I should add that on a short passage, you will need crew. Its a safety thing, and I would not contemplate an over-night passage on my own. More experienced sailors with the right gear will feel more comfortable, but the key difference is experience and gear. I don't have wind-vanes, and the auto-helm will drain the battery if I run it continuously, which means manual steering*, which is fine for day-trips. I mainly use the tiller-pilot to keep the boat on course while I need a break to do important stuff, like having a toilet-break, eating lunch, phoning the Admiral etc. Although the boat is rated for 8 persons, it begins to feel cramped with four people on board for a day-trip. If you have been tiller-steering for 8 hours, you will definitely need a rest. Do the math on the shifts and breaks. (PPS * Others might post something about sheet-to-tiller steering - I'd like to try it some day, but without the experience and set-up, its not a viable option for me, yet) Hmmmmm yeah as I said once I get started I'll be doing a short 1-2 day trip here and there (SYD-BRIS) for the moment and then later this year I will hopefully be doing the FNQ up to Indonesia/East Philippines (Surigao) then onto Palau and back down... Again I will be doing about 50% solo sailing especially until I get to the Philippines. With this for sure I will need a wind vane and maybe a tiller pilot. Although I do know that wind vanes are hard to come by and seems to be quite expensive? Also I have noticed a few friends who have used a tiller pilot and have said they break easily or after a few months use. I think they both had the ray marine T2000 tiller for about 4-6 months... Although I don't know as to what extent they have used this... Ultimately in the end I would need to consider one especially for the solo passages but I wouldn't be using it for 24hr periods... most likely I would use it for 2-3 hours if need be so I can rest and then use the wind vane if I can find one... A lot to consider.

Select to expand quote Bennjo_1 said.. Achernar said.. PS I should add that on a short passage, you will need crew. Its a safety thing, and I would not contemplate an over-night passage on my own. More experienced sailors with the right gear will feel more comfortable, but the key difference is experience and gear. I don't have wind-vanes, and the auto-helm will drain the battery if I run it continuously, which means manual steering*, which is fine for day-trips. I mainly use the tiller-pilot to keep the boat on course while I need a break to do important stuff, like having a toilet-break, eating lunch, phoning the Admiral etc. Although the boat is rated for 8 persons, it begins to feel cramped with four people on board for a day-trip. If you have been tiller-steering for 8 hours, you will definitely need a rest. Do the math on the shifts and breaks. (PPS * Others might post something about sheet-to-tiller steering - I'd like to try it some day, but without the experience and set-up, its not a viable option for me, yet) Hmmmmm yeah as I said once I get started I'll be doing a short 1-2 day trip here and there (SYD-BRIS) for the moment and then later this year I will hopefully be doing the FNQ up to Indonesia/East Philippines (Surigao) then onto Palau and back down... Again I will be doing about 50% solo sailing especially until I get to the Philippines. With this for sure I will need a wind vane and maybe a tiller pilot. Although I do know that wind vanes are hard to come by and seems to be quite expensive? Also I have noticed a few friends who have used a tiller pilot and have said they break easily or after a few months use. I think they both had the ray marine T2000 tiller for about 4-6 months... Although I don't know as to what extent they have used this... Ultimately in the end I would need to consider one especially for the solo passages but I wouldn't be using it for 24hr periods... most likely I would use it for 2-3 hours if need be so I can rest and then use the wind vane if I can find one... A lot to consider. I have a Raymarine ST2000 on my Cavalier 32. I would say it is not suitable for offshore sailing. It cannot handle the waves, down wind etc. Also the boat displacement is higher that what the ST2000 recommends. I am likely going to buy a Palagic auto pilot and I wish I did this from the beginning. It has a gyro so will handle waves better.

"Cavalier 32 Or Similar - 1St Boat" started by Bennjo_1

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Targa 41 review: The offshore weapon you can take to the Med

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Can a raft of fresh features take Targa’s all-new offshore cruiser to the top? Alex Smith gets behind the wheel to see how she performs

Very few boat-building blueprints are so woven into the fabric of maritime folklore as that of the original “4×4 of the Sea”. Targa has been a huge success over the years with its fleet of dry, soft-riding, four-season offshore pilothouse boats, so it makes plenty of sense that, while the rest of the industry frets and sweats over the latest trends, the freshest buzzwords and the most diverting reinventions of perfectly functional features, Targa marches serenely on with a subtly evolved Mark II of this and an even more subtly evolved Mark III of that. But while the new Targa 41 might look much the same as everything else in the fleet, a closer look reveals that the changes, at least by Targa standards, are actually quite significant…

The new stuff

As you look at the Targa 41 from the outside, a couple of key Targa firsts make themselves known. There are hull windows, rather than just compact portlights, and while their integration is subtle (almost to the point of imperceptible) they promise a major upgrade in terms of light and views down below.

phantom 32 yacht review

Fresh features on the Targa 41. Photo: Paul Wyeth

The windows in the superstructure are also different in that, for the first time, what we have here are inset panels, bonded into the pilothouse structure without the need for the usual aluminium frames. Again, that promises uprated light and views from the saloon; and ease of movement has been uprated here too – firstly through the use of twin side gates in the cockpit (another first for Targa); and secondly, through the integration of much larger side doors in the forward part of the pilothouse.

It’s also worth noting that the engine access is nothing short of spectacular. Instead of a single deck hatch that hinges aft, we get two symmetrical hatches, that hinge forward, creating completely unobstructed access to every element of the engines, with such a generous arc of travel that you can stand bolt upright, even when you’re down in the engine bay. But the one thing that really differentiates this boat from other craft, both in the fleet and in the broader sector, is the sheer flexibility of the external spaces.

Article continues below…

Now it’s no secret that boats of this kind, Targa included, have become known for some pretty one-dimensional outdoor layouts over the years. Think wide-open decks and simple bench seats that do nothing to cater for large gatherings and you’re pretty close.

Well it’s fair to say that the Targa 41 bucks that trend in a major way. At the aft end, for instance, there are two L-shaped seating sections, one on either side of the central boarding gate. These look forward to an additional bench along the pilothouse’s aft bulkhead that includes a cleverly integrated seat across the lower rung of the flybridge steps.

You can rig a large table between these three sections; you can install extra flip-down seats between the two L-shaped units to create an unbroken bench right across the aft end; and you can drop the table into the space to create a huge sunpad, while still getting easy movement between the side decks and boarding gates.

phantom 32 yacht review

Engine access is better than anything else in the class. Photo: Paul Wyeth

Things are less impressive at the bow, where the spatial requirements of the walkaround decks and the seamanship practicalities of the forepeak inevitably limit the day boating features to a simple raised island sunbed but there’s still space up here for four people to nestle beneath the optional sunshade. And up on the flybridge , compact though it is, the flexibility is again uncommonly well sorted.

You get a single helm seat to port and a C-shaped dinette to starboard, with a swing-over backrest at the forward bench so a couple of people can join the skipper up front. There’s also a table stowed beneath the seat plus the option of an infill to create a third sunbed, which is an extraordinary thing on a proper offshore pilothouse cruiser like this. Of course, the arrangement could still be improved if the fixed helm seat could rotate inboard to face the dinette, but even so, by the standards of the sector, the Targa 41 is the most gifted and versatile day boating platform around.

phantom 32 yacht review

The teak-lined saloon features a long starboard galley and a large raised dinette. Photo: Paul Wyeth

Upmarket internals

Step into the saloon and the starboard side is dominated by a fore-and-aft galley every bit as large as that on the flagship 46. Though tapered at its aft end for easy access through the pilothouse’s starboard door, it is deep, long and substantially elevated, providing plenty of storage and lots of fiddle-lined work surface.

In terms of features, there’s a two-ring gas hob, a large fridge and an integrated oven, as well as a satisfying slot for the chopping board that is precisely the right size and shape for the matching sink lid. And although most of the galley sits beneath the dipping deckhead of the flybridge, headroom is remarkably good too, with plenty of space, even for someone of 6ft 6in.

phantom 32 yacht review

The big raised dinette can be used as an extra double berth. Photo: Paul Wyeth

Across from the galley, the seats of the big starboard dinette are also subtly raised – this time to improve headroom in the mid cabin and to open up the views through those big frameless windows. Positioned between the aft stairwell for the mid cabin and the transverse co-pilot bench, it’s a huge space, and in a marked departure for Targa, there’s a TV on a teak plinth that lifts sheepishly from a cabinet at the dinette’s aft end.

The standard of finish is also very strong, particularly if natural teak is your favoured option for the cabinetry. It’s everywhere in here, either in the form of teak-faced ply or solid teak and it feels extremely premium. That said, while there are plenty of dedicated drawers and cabinets for glasses and crockery, the finishing here is a shade disappointing.

The sides and base of the drawers comprise sheets of ply that are connected by means of simple butt joints, glued and screwed in the time-honoured DIY fashion. It works well enough of course and the materials are very sound but this is the new flagship Targa, costing the best part of £1m. It’s a boat every bit as steeped in worldwide renown as it is in natural teak, so we would like to see a slightly more polished solution to this element of the boat than that.

phantom 32 yacht review

The galley is every bit as large as that on the flagship 46. Photo: Paul Wyeth

Even so, as you move forward, the premium feel quickly resumes. With its easy adjustability, high-end suspension seat and outstanding dash layout, the helm is an object lesson in ergonomic purity. Across from that, the co-pilot’s bench is passive but well-specced, with a chart storage slot, a set of raised dials and a collection of storage compartments neatly concealed beneath the dashtop. In truth, the raised hinges of the dashtop hatches mean this is an imperfect place for chartwork but comfort, visibility and ease of movement are all first-class.

Uprated accommodation

The bow cabin is earmarked as the owner’s retreat and, with its teak bulkheads and pale fabric linings, it certainly feels very classy. In addition to a raised bed that makes the most of the breadth, you get lots of storage options plus a very well-sized ensuite bathroom with separate shower. But the real high point down here is to be found in the mid cabin. Accessed by means of its own private staircase, it encompasses the full beam in traditional Targa fashion and is broadly divided in two.

phantom 32 yacht review

The larger mid cabin gets a full-beam layout and some proper hull windows. Photo: Paul Wyeth

There’s a double berth beneath the elevated deckhead of the saloon dinette to port and a smaller 1.5-man bed beneath the more restricted deckhead of the saloon companionway and starboard galley. But rather than being split by a long central fore-and-aft bulkhead, as you tend to see on boats like this, the 41 uses a much more open-plan affair with a simple curtain that you can draw across for extra privacy.

If the sheer space on offer is impressive, the light and views are also far better back here than they are in the bow – and that leads us to suggest that if you owned this boat, you might actually favour this place as your sleeping quarters. It’s only the heads compartment that might lead you to change your mind. Positioned on the port side, halfway up the staircase, it’s much more compact and compromised than the forward compartment, with a wetroom set-up rather than a separate shower. But if you’re not one for a lavish morning routine, this could still be the cabin to pick.

phantom 32 yacht review

The lavishly trimmed bow cabin gets a significantly larger bathroom. Photo: Paul Wyeth

Spectacular sea boat

It takes all of 20 seconds to recognise that the Targa 41 is nigh-on perfect at sea. Aside from a misplaced compass, the helm set-up is superb. Visibility is also very good and sound readings in the low 70s are very acceptable on a long cruise.

When you switch off the auto settings, it’s a supremely easy boat to trim, finesse and manipulate; and with that combination of the soft, swell-cleaving stem, the prodigious bow flare and the thick, undercut rubbing strake, the dryness here is truly extraordinary – so much so that we have a good go at provoking it into some misbehaviour. But even when we run with the nose dipped and the skipper’s door open, directly across the swells in a sturdy beam wind, absolutely no water makes its way inboard.

phantom 32 yacht review

This soft-riding and very dry boat has a range of 350 miles at 20 knots. Photo: Paul Wyeth

In fact, the spray is flung wide with such aggression that even the aft cockpit remains splash-free. We’ve been on a great many dedicated offshore boats with proven pedigree but this is undoubtedly one of the driest rides we’ve ever experienced.

That in itself is a lovely trait but the real beauty of this new Targa 41 is that it brings two such contrasting personalities to the table. When you want to take it easy, either in rough seas or on a long passage, it feels like a very big and substantial boat that will run flat, soft, quiet and dry, and take excellent care of you and your guests. But when you want to play, it will heel and carve, leap and charge with all the vim and enthusiasm of a much smaller, nippier, less statesmanlike sportsboat – and that really is a rare and special thing.

Targa 41 specifications

LOA: 45ft 3in (13.82m) BEAM: 13ft 1in (4.0m) DRAFT: 3ft 6in (1.10m) DISPLACEMENT: 10,000kg (light) FUEL CAPACITY: 1,500 litres WATER CAPACITY: 350 litres ENGINES: Twin Volvo Penta D6 440s RCD: B10 PRICE: From: £658,310 ex VAT

Targa 41 costs & options

Test boat includes the following options… BlackLine styling pack: £4,590 Grey hull colour: £5,490 Additional cockpit seating: £2,780 Cockpit bikini and poles: £1,780 Lumishore underwater lights: £1,320 Sidepower SX100 stern thruster: £6,950 Lewmar electric anchor winch package: £6,210

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If you don’t buy into what Targas are all about, it’s perfectly possible (likely even) that the new 41 will miss the mark. After all, its elevation lends it quite a lofty profile – and excellent though it is in almost every practical regard, the style remains a bit predictable. Like most Targas, it has the look of a boat your Dad might own and while the new hull and superstructure windows certainly help with the overall aesthetic, it lacks the fresh and playful dynamism of a boat like the Sargo Explorer. But in all honesty, what did you expect? This might be the latest model but its attempts at reinvention were always likely to be tempered by its respect for heritage – and given how iconic the Targa brand has become, that’s just as it should be. So whatever you think of the small flybridge, the elevated profile or the classical looks, the truth here is simple. This extraordinary combination of day boat, cruise boat and sea boat is, without doubt, the most perfectly resolved Targa we’ve ever tested.

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Phantom 32

Listing Id 1052131 Length 32.00 Feet
Condition Used Type Sail
Make Phantom Year 1986
Model 32 Engine Type Bukh
Hull Style Single Hull Type GRP
Stock Number PWPM322611

DESCRIPTION

Exceptional 1986 example of this very popular Phantom 32 bluewater Cruiser, is now for sale.

She has had a complete refurbishment since purchase by her current owners in 2013. Including - New running and standing rigging. Upgraded deck hardware. New Raymarine electronics package. New interior upholstery. New bimini and sun awning. New cockpit cushions. New cruise laminate Genoa. New toilet. New gas stove and oven.

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phantom 32 yacht review

Review of Phantom 32

Basic specs..

The boat is equipped with 6 berths.

The boat equipped with a masthead rig. The advantage of a masthead rig is its simplicity and the fact that a given sail area - compared with a fractional rig - can be carried lower and thus with less heeling moment.

The Phantom 32 is equipped with a fin keel. A boat with a fin keel is more manoeuvrable but has less directional stability than a similar boat with a full keel.

The boat can enter most marinas as the draft is just about 1.75 - 1.85 meter (5.74 - 6.04 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.

Phantom 32 may be equipped with an inboard diesel engine at 24 hp (17 kW). Calculated max speed is about 5.2 knots

The transmission is a shaft drive. A shaft drive will in the long run require less maintenance than other types of drive e.g. a sail drive.

Sailing characteristics

This section covers widely used rules of thumb to describe the sailing characteristics. Please note that even though the calculations are correct, the interpretation of the results might not be valid for extreme boats.

What is Capsize Screening Formula (CSF)?

The capsize screening value for Phantom 32 is 1.77, indicating that this boat could - if evaluated by this formula alone - be accepted to participate in ocean races.

What is Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed?

The theoretical maximal speed of a displacement boat of this length is 6.8 knots. The term "Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed" is widely used even though a boat can sail faster. The term shall be interpreted as above the theoretical speed a great additional power is necessary for a small gain in speed.

The immersion rate is defined as the weight required to sink the boat a certain level. The immersion rate for Phantom 32 is about 167 kg/cm, alternatively 939 lbs/inch. Meaning: if you load 167 kg cargo on the boat then it will sink 1 cm. Alternatively, if you load 939 lbs cargo on the boat it will sink 1 inch.

Sailing statistics

This section is statistical comparison with similar boats of the same category. The basis of the following statistical computations is our unique database with more than 26,000 different boat types and 350,000 data points.

What is Motion Comfort Ratio (MCR)?

What is L/B (Length Beam Ratio)?

What is a Ballast Ratio?

What is Displacement Length Ratio?

Maintenance

When buying anti-fouling bottom paint, it's nice to know how much to buy. The surface of the wet bottom is about 29m 2 (312 ft 2 ). Based on this, your favourite maritime shop can tell you the quantity you need.

If you need to renew parts of your running rig and is not quite sure of the dimensions, you may find the estimates computed below useful.

UsageLengthDiameter
Jib sheet 9.9 m(32.6 feet)12 mm(1/2 inch)
Genoa sheet9.9 m(32.6 feet)12 mm(1/2 inch)
Mainsheet 24.9 m(81.6 feet)12 mm(1/2 inch)
Spinnaker sheet21.9 m(71.8 feet)12 mm(1/2 inch)

This section is reserved boat owner's modifications, improvements, etc. Here you might find (or contribute with) inspiration for your boat.

Do you have changes/improvements you would like to share? Upload a photo and describe what you have done.

We are always looking for new photos. If you can contribute with photos for Phantom 32 it would be a great help.

If you have any comments to the review, improvement suggestions, or the like, feel free to contact us . Criticism helps us to improve.

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PHANTOM 32 COMFORTABLE & EASY TO SAIL OR LIVEABOARD   SOLD

phantom 32 yacht review

Used Yachts For Sale

Sail monohulls 30ft > 35ft,          phantom boats for sale, phantom 32 boats for sale.

IMAGES

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. Review of Phantom 32

    The Phantom 32 is equipped with a fin keel. The fin keel is the most common keel and provides splendid manoeuvrability. The downside is that it has less directional stability than a long keel. The boat can enter most marinas as the draft is just about 1.75 - 1.85 meter (5.74 - 6.04 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.

  2. Phantom 32

    VIC. 5814 posts. 27 Jun 2016 8:29PM. If your going off shore Id be focusing on a 32 foot yacht length and find something it that range it would be more livable than a 28 footer more room for a dinghy more room for solar panels more room for storage ,water, food, kayak. Trying to squeeze in what you need on a 28 footer for blue water sailing and ...

  3. PHANTOM 32 (SHEIN)

    PHANTOM 32 (SHEIN) Save to Favorites . Beta Marine. BOTH. US IMPERIAL. METRIC. Sailboat Specifications ... 1997), states that a boat with a BN of less than 1.3 will be slow in light winds. A boat with a BN of 1.6 or greater is a boat that will be reefed often in offshore cruising. Derek Harvey, "Multihulls for Cruising and Racing ...

  4. Phantom 32

    Come join the discussion about sailing, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, repairs, reviews, maintenance, and more! Phantom 32. Jump to Latest 1K views 4 ... Hi would appreciate any information about Phantom 32's. This would be a first boat [other than a trailer sailor]; with the plan being to cruise the north coast of KI and Spencer ...

  5. Phantom 32 Cruising Yacht

    A great 32 Phantom ready to set sail on your favourite waterway, cruise her along the coast or race at your local club. She is tidy and nicely fitted out, wi...

  6. Phantom 32 Hull and Deck Complete

    Written by Matt Trulio. Will Smith of Phantom Boats in Sarasota, Fla., has finished the hull and deck of his new 32-foot stepped V-bottom designed for competition in the Superboat Vee-class of Super Boat International circuit. A 600-hp, 496-cubic-inch GM Vortec engine from Innovation Marine, also in Sarasota, will power the boat.

  7. Phantom 32 Cruising Yacht

    This great, safe and sturdy 32 foot Phantom cruising yacht has lots of room in the cockpit and below, and is 6' 4" height in the saloon. 'Norseman' is very n...

  8. Fairline Phantom 42 used boat review: classically luxurious motor yacht

    Fairline first introduced its Phantom range half a century ago with the Fairline Phantom 32. It would be the first in a long line of popular family cruisers which endures to this day. ... On the books of Swanwick-based Solent Motor Yachts at an asking price of £149,000 VAT paid, our review boat's owner, Richard Frost, explained the chief ...

  9. Phantom 32 Offshore Raceboat Coming Together

    Designed specifically for competition in Super Boat International's Superboat Vee class, a 32-footer from Phantom Boats is taking shape at the company's shop in Sarasota, Fla. Company principal Will Smith said he created the boat by piecing together sections of two 30-foot Phantom V-bottoms, bonding them together with vacuum-bagged fiberglass and resin and re-coring the hull. The cut-down deck ...

  10. Phantom 32 Raceboat Hull Plug Produced

    After two years competing on the offshore racecourse as in essence a running plug, the hull of a canopied 32-foot Phantom V-bottom, which ran as Mr. Technology in the Superboat Vee class on the Super Boat International circuit, has been digitized to create a plug at Doug Wright Designs […]

  11. Phantom 32

    Phantom 32. Published in November 05, 2015. The Phantom 32s were built to high specifications in solid GRP by Nick Shein. They enjoy an unsurpassed reputation as comfortable, easily managed offshore cruising yachts and this one has led the way. She is Aust Registered and has cruised extensively including Melbourne to Nelson NZ then up the North ...

  12. Fairline Phantom 32

    Location: Fairline 32 Phantom. by andisa » Tue Aug 14, 2007 2:33 pm. go for new engines if you want fun. I took 32 days over the winter and had great fun and support arround our boat club. The boat now does over 30Knots flat out. She does 2 - 2.5l/mile even flat out.

  13. Cavalier 32 Or Similar

    Hi all, I'm currently looking at my 1st yacht/boat and need some general advise. I'm planning on sailing from Sydney up to FNQ and then onto Indonesia, Philippines, Palau then back down thru PNG and back to Sydney. I have been looking around now for the last 3-4 months and have come across the Cavalier 32 & or Phantom 32 boat.

  14. 1977 Phantom 32 Antique and Classic for sale

    A fin keel provides better maneuvering than a similar boat with a long keel. That's why, the boat is easier to handle in harbour with less space. The boat can enter most marinas as the draft is just about 1.70 - 1.80 meterS dependent on the load. The Phantom 32 is a sturdy and robust ship that was built in-house in classic style.

  15. Phantom 32 yacht sailing off Broken Bay. Drone footage by ...

    Phantom 32 'Aruba' sailing off Broken Bay. Drone footage by Paul van Kan.

  16. Used Phantom 32 for Sale

    Phantom 32 Boats For Sale. Price. AU $37,500 Reduced. Finance from only $ 120 per week. Get Finance Quote Now. Pre-Purchase Inspection. Currency. Length. 32' - 9.75m.

  17. 1984 PHANTOM 32

    Find a Used 1984 PHANTOM 32 Boat For Sale in Queensland, as well as other Leisure boats online at boatsales.com.au. Search used boats for sale, boat & engine reviews and find the newest boat accessories online at Australia's Marine Marke

  18. Used Phantom 32 for Sale

    Send to Friend. This great, safe and sturdy 32 foot Phantom has lots of room in the cockpit and below, and is 6' 4" height in the saloon. 'Norseman' is very neat and tidy. It is a clean and dry boat that can be sailed single handed. She has a rigging report only 12mths old. The boat was taken back to gelcoat in 2015, removing all the old antifoul.

  19. Used Phantom 32 for Sale

    Length. 32' - 9.75m. Location. Gold Coast Qld. Launch Year. 1981 approximate. Hull. Fibreglass/GRP built to exceed standards laid down by Lloyds and USL Code for GRP yachts. SOLD.

  20. Targa 41 review: The offshore weapon you can take to the Med

    Very few boat-building blueprints are so woven into the fabric of maritime folklore as that of the original "4×4 of the Sea". Targa has been a huge success over the years with its fleet of dry, soft-riding, four-season offshore pilothouse boats, so it makes plenty of sense that, while the rest of the industry frets and sweats over the latest trends, the freshest buzzwords and the most ...

  21. 1986 Phantom 32 ID 1052131

    Boat Reviews by Type; Boat Reviews by Brand; Boat Shows; Advice. Selling Your Boat; Boating Essentials; Safety; Boat Licence; Terms; Boating Recipes. Cook Your Catch; ... Exceptional 1986 example of this very popular Phantom 32 bluewater Cruiser, is now for sale. She has had a complete refurbishment since purchase by her current owners in 2013 ...

  22. Review of Phantom 32

    The Phantom 32 is equipped with a finn keel. The finn keel is the most common keel and provides splendid manoeuvrability. The downside is that it has less directional stability than a long keel. The boat can enter most marinas as the draft is just about 1.75 - 1.85 meter (5.74 - 6.04 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.

  23. 2006 Ocean Yachts 42 Super Sport

    Find more information and images about the boat and contact the seller or search more boats for sale on YachtWorld. ... 1990 Blackfin 32 Combi. US$75,000. Upper Township, New Jersey. 2001 Pursuit 3070 Offshore Center Console. US$65,000. ... Reviews. 4.9. Based on 374 reviews. Vann, South Carolina ...

  24. PHANTOM 32 COMFORTABLE & EASY TO SAIL OR LIVEABOARD SOLD

    Phantom 32 Comfortable & Easy To Sail Or Liveaboard: Sailing Boats | Boats Online for Sale | Fibreglass/grp Antifouled June 2023