I learned to sail Contessa 32’s In Gosport when I was in the military in the mid 70’s. The Joint Services Sailing Centre had about ten of them. I can confidently say that they are one of the most seaworthy 32 footers you will find on any ocean. I have crossed the channel in a force 9 in one, safe as houses, and I passed my Yachmasters exam in one. The Examiner was one “Jumbo Thomas” , a retired Royal Engineer Colonel and a legend. Fantastic yachts, lovely memories.
When we do boat shows with the Contessa 32 (which is not so often these days) it's amazing how many forces people come on board and share these sorts of stories. We had one of those JSSC boats in to the Jeremy Rogers boat yard for a massive refit a couple of years back, Bugler of Hornet and they are still going strong. Thanks for the testimony.
It is absolutely brilliant that a small builder who almost 50 years ago designed and built an iconic and well loved yacht is still building them today. Beneteau eat your heart out!!
Glad you enjoyed it. Have you seen our new video on the history of the Contessa? If you go on our Jeremy Rogers Ltd Facebook Page there is a link to it. I think you will enjoy! Jessie
. houtslager Hi you can go to FB without being signed up , I do Here is one old video might be the one they are talking about vimeo.com/250446951 Cheers Warren
Many years ago I had the little sister, a Contessa 26. Small, uncomfortable, very wet to sail. When I got mine the Rogers yard at Lynington was in full production. Decades later, I have fonder memories of her than any other boat that I have owned. So much so that am considering another one for daysailing, now that I am in my seventies.
Contessa 32 forever! The most beautiful yacht that can be sailed even single handedly with a strategic placement of the winches! My favorite job on board is the helm, and into the wind! God, I love it! Sheer pleasure how she can climb into the wind! I became a sailor on a Contessa 32, and my first week of sailing was from Sherbourg to the Scillies. The name of the Contessa was Shamy. I was hooked from the get-go, and I'll always go for a Contessa.... well, there is of course, the Swan, which I consider the "ancestor" of the Contessa, but just must bigger, more "royal" and therefor way more expensive! You all agree?
Well would you believe, I sailed on Bugler many times. Just checked my log book, and the first was in June 1978 on the ASA Regatta, from Portsmouth to Dartmouth via Cherbourg. I was a crew at the time and for the main part a force 7. Must get my sailing kit out and have another go !!
I bought mine from new after seeing one at the London Boat show. I was also very lucky to get a berth at Lymington which Jeremy had given up. My Contessa was 'Blazeaway' names after my dog at the time. Absolutely dream to sail. I remember being docked at Cowes in quite bad weather and the only yachts out were the British army red hulled Contessa boats coming down the Solent at a fair old lick.
I'm 61yo without a lot of sailing experience planning to ocean sail in his old age. First I was enamored of classic trimarans, particularly Newick Echo. But began noticing some classic monohull racer-cruisers were quite a bit less expensive. I really like this boat.
Am 64 and much like yourself. Getting back to sailing after nearly 5 decades away from it. Hands downs, a Contessa 32 would be the boat I would buy were I in a position to do so.
I agree. The Contessa 32 is one beautiful well designed and built boat. Modern boats are like floating hotels which are ok in harbour. In a wild sea you can easily be thrown around in the accommodation without the means to brace yourself. My other dream boat is a Fisher 31 with enclosed deckhouse ideal for OAPs who have still a taste for adventure. I read a story of a 16 year old girl who circumnavigated in a Contessa 26. A very capable boat.
I can only dream! Sailed these beauties over thirty years ago at BRNC in all weathers. In fact my rather expensive oilies were left on Pegasus when I left the Royal Navy - if the MOD fancies reimbursing me I'm sure they could contact me!
How would you compare a long keel design like a Vancouver 32 with a Contessa 32 ? I would love a reply from someone who knows about boats. My Dad had a clinker built folkboat when I was young by the way, loved it so much! I'm thinking I want something a bit bigger and more comfy but will always love the good old folkboat...
No hype here.. a fine boat. One of the best of it's type ( fin keel, rudder on a skeg).Too expensive for me , back in the day, and now I'm too old. So, its the fisher for me.
I would do anything to be able to own one. But as a recent american college grad i know itll never happen, god i wish i didnt go to college. If there was a contest to win one id do anything
You can still pick them up cheaply if you keep your eyes open. There was a good one in the States for sale recently for sale for £10,000- Maybe that's unrealistic for you now but I hope that getting a college education won't exclude you forever from being able to have a Contessa 32. If it does, there's something deeply wrong with the system! Don't give up the dream!
Everyone knows that the underwater hull should look like a fish. Not true for modern boats, which can be fast even though butt ugly. I want to bring one of these sailboats to the US as a retirement project. Undeniably a GRP classic.
Hi I always wanted to do this so I am doing a lot of research now. The only thing that is questionable is the movie the perfect storm. How common is boat being flipped because of a bad storm or wave? I also notice people stick to in the carribean and warm areas is it because alaska would be too harsh or cold? And do you recommend a book I can buy that is the ultimate guide to learning all this?
Green Bear at 1:26 in the video the gal that says her name "I'm Tania Aebi" has two books that would be worth reading. Details on Wikipedia en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tania_Aebi Maiden Voyage and her second book, "I've Been Around" Available from Amazon I see. www.amazon.com/Tania-Aebi/e/B000AQ741W/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1437962032&sr=8-1
+Green Bear Hi Green Bear, if you go to our website, jeremyrogers.co.uk - you can find some articles on the articles and links page. Read the stories on Assent, that will give you an idea of where you can go and what you can do in a Contessa 32! (Everywhere)! Good luck!
If you want some more good sailing authors to read you might start with Vito Dumas. He was Argentinian who circumnavigated the lower 40's route while the rest of the world was busy blowing itself up. In fact he was boarded by the Japanese and he convinced them he was not a spy as he had no radio. Everyday it seemed was a heavy weather day in the lower 40's. Then of course you have to read everything by the Hiscocks, and most definitely Larry and Lynn Pardey. Heavy weather sailing is something you have to learn to deal with. You also need to have confidence that you can learn these techniques. I would much rather get knocked down in a blow than get run over by a bus while eating my Egg McMuffin on the way to work.
J'en ai un depuis 1976 et dans la taille il n'y a pas mieux . vitesse securite elegance le must et ca ne pourri pas . c'est toujours possible de lui faire peau neuve ca c'est formidable .certains comparent avec centurion 32 ???????!!!!!!! probleme de vue pas de point de vue .
This is a Contessa 32 The Sparkman and Stephens Contessa was a 38 - there were only 6 built. There are about 700 Contessa 32s so much more out there! There are also some Contessa 38s (which then got reimagined as DAWN 39s)
It is not only a beautiful boat, a piece of art. Bravo
That Brazilian guy was a perfect owner for this boat - really appreciated what he was buying.
He did! and was a lovely customer
I learned to sail Contessa 32’s In Gosport when I was in the military in the mid 70’s. The Joint Services Sailing Centre had about ten of them. I can confidently say that they are one of the most seaworthy 32 footers you will find on any ocean. I have crossed the channel in a force 9 in one, safe as houses, and I passed my Yachmasters exam in one. The Examiner was one “Jumbo Thomas” , a retired Royal Engineer Colonel and a legend. Fantastic yachts, lovely memories.
When we do boat shows with the Contessa 32 (which is not so often these days) it's amazing how many forces people come on board and share these sorts of stories. We had one of those JSSC boats in to the Jeremy Rogers boat yard for a massive refit a couple of years back, Bugler of Hornet and they are still going strong. Thanks for the testimony.
DAVE JAZZ REspect!
DAVE JAZZ agreed, I did a lot of my sailing on PER MARE from RMSC Plymouth. Fantastic boats!
It is absolutely brilliant that a small builder who almost 50 years ago designed and built an iconic and well loved yacht is still building them today. Beneteau eat your heart out!!
Glad you enjoyed it. Have you seen our new video on the history of the Contessa? If you go on our Jeremy Rogers Ltd Facebook Page there is a link to it. I think you will enjoy! Jessie
for non users of fb, can you not put a link here to it???
@@jessierogers1508
. houtslager Hi you can go to FB without being signed up , I do
Here is one old video might be the one they are talking about
vimeo.com/250446951
Cheers Warren
Timeless, classic beauty. Wonderfully proportioned. An absolute joy to sail and designed to protect you offshore.
+RobSea69 Thanks, couldn't have said it better ourselves!
My dream is to buy one of these and explore the world. Such a beautiful boat
Tania is why I stumbled over this video after all. Amazing how back then she toot a 26 feet boat to circumvent the earth.
Many years ago I had the little sister, a Contessa 26. Small, uncomfortable, very wet to sail. When I got mine the Rogers yard at Lynington was in full production. Decades later, I have fonder memories of her than any other boat that I have owned. So much so that am considering another one for daysailing, now that I am in my seventies.
We we're in Cornwall camping during the 79 fastnet race tragedy! Any boat that got its crew home safe and sound is an amazing craft.
Contessa 32 forever! The most beautiful yacht that can be sailed even single handedly with a strategic placement of the winches! My favorite job on board is the helm, and into the wind! God, I love it! Sheer pleasure how she can climb into the wind! I became a sailor on a Contessa 32, and my first week of sailing was from Sherbourg to the Scillies. The name of the Contessa was Shamy. I was hooked from the get-go, and I'll always go for a Contessa.... well, there is of course, the Swan, which I consider the "ancestor" of the Contessa, but just must bigger, more "royal" and therefor way more expensive! You all agree?
Beautiful boat. I chartered Contessa 32s a number of times. It is a classic which I can only dream of owning
lovely lovely vessel and the detail in these new hulls looks great!
A true classic in every detail.
Well would you believe, I sailed on Bugler many times. Just checked my log book, and the first was in June 1978 on the ASA Regatta, from Portsmouth to Dartmouth via Cherbourg. I was a crew at the time and for the main part a force 7. Must get my sailing kit out and have another go !!
I bought mine from new after seeing one at the London Boat show. I was also very lucky to get a berth at Lymington which Jeremy had given up. My Contessa was 'Blazeaway' names after my dog at the time. Absolutely dream to sail. I remember being docked at Cowes in quite bad weather and the only yachts out were the British army red hulled Contessa boats coming down the Solent at a fair old lick.
what year was that, I might have been one of the bosuns, I was sailing the RE's Contessa with a load of OTC officer cadets :/
Grail boat. What a beauty!
Great Jeremy
I'm 61yo without a lot of sailing experience planning to ocean sail in his old age. First I was enamored of classic trimarans, particularly Newick Echo. But began noticing some classic monohull racer-cruisers were quite a bit less expensive. I really like this boat.
It's a beauty!
stevenhs8821 Can’t go wrong with a Contessa 32. Really good seaworthy boats, lovely lines.
Am 64 and much like yourself. Getting back to sailing after nearly 5 decades away from it. Hands downs, a Contessa 32 would be the boat I would buy were I in a position to do so.
I agree. The Contessa 32 is one beautiful well designed and built boat.
Modern boats are like floating hotels which are ok in harbour. In a wild sea you can easily be thrown around in the accommodation without the means to brace yourself.
My other dream boat is a Fisher 31 with enclosed deckhouse ideal for OAPs who have still a taste for adventure.
I read a story of a 16 year old girl who circumnavigated in a Contessa 26. A very capable boat.
Sooo Beautiful yacht! ^~^
That is a beautiful sailboat
Great boat! After my my Marieholm I want a Contessa 32 😀
I can only dream! Sailed these beauties over thirty years ago at BRNC in all weathers. In fact my rather expensive oilies were left on Pegasus when I left the Royal Navy - if the MOD fancies reimbursing me I'm sure they could contact me!
I want one!
Strenght..and gliding boat..very good vibration...
Lovely yacht
Tania, fastnet race of 79.. Different world.
Très joli bateau 👍
Love these boats
Sailed a26 to Tahiti. Doubt I need a 32.
How would you compare a long keel design like a Vancouver 32 with a Contessa 32 ? I would love a reply from someone who knows about boats. My Dad had a clinker built folkboat when I was young by the way, loved it so much! I'm thinking I want something a bit bigger and more comfy but will always love the good old folkboat...
nice boat
Currently have the privilege of taking one ('73 vintage) to the Açores from Brest.:-)))
You are in good company, CO32 Giulia is also en route. Enjoy the beautiful Azores.
No hype here.. a fine boat. One of the best of it's type ( fin keel, rudder on a skeg).Too expensive for me , back in the day, and now I'm too old. So, its the fisher for me.
I would do anything to be able to own one. But as a recent american college grad i know itll never happen, god i wish i didnt go to college. If there was a contest to win one id do anything
You can still pick them up cheaply if you keep your eyes open. There was a good one in the States for sale recently for sale for £10,000- Maybe that's unrealistic for you now but I hope that getting a college education won't exclude you forever from being able to have a Contessa 32. If it does, there's something deeply wrong with the system! Don't give up the dream!
That boat shines! I want one! I want one of everything, is that so wrong?
Need a inside video.
When I was shopping for boat .It was hard to find and expensive I settle for a Elite 30.1( Feeling)
I'm just about to buy a contessa 34 and finding it difficult to find any reviews.
Anyone got any info
Dream life.....
Wow making them still what are they going for .
+Paul Stevens Hi, thanks for commenting. They are £189 + VAT - not bad for a hand crafted heirloom! ;)
Everyone knows that the underwater hull should look like a fish. Not true for modern boats, which can be fast even though butt ugly. I want to bring one of these sailboats to the US as a retirement project. Undeniably a GRP classic.
I would like to find out how I can have one made for me. Can you direct me to a point of contact? Thank you and happy holidays.
nice boat how much is it.
Good evening. How much?
Hi I always wanted to do this so I am doing a lot of research now. The only thing that is questionable is the movie the perfect storm. How common is boat being flipped because of a bad storm or wave? I also notice people stick to in the carribean and warm areas is it because alaska would be too harsh or cold?
And do you recommend a book I can buy that is the ultimate guide to learning all this?
Green Bear at 1:26 in the video the gal that says her name "I'm Tania Aebi" has two books that would be worth reading. Details on Wikipedia en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tania_Aebi
Maiden Voyage and her second book, "I've Been Around"
Available from Amazon I see.
www.amazon.com/Tania-Aebi/e/B000AQ741W/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1437962032&sr=8-1
+Green Bear Hi Green Bear, if you go to our website, jeremyrogers.co.uk - you can find some articles on the articles and links page. Read the stories on Assent, that will give you an idea of where you can go and what you can do in a Contessa 32! (Everywhere)! Good luck!
thank you.
If you want some more good sailing authors to read you might start with Vito Dumas. He was Argentinian who circumnavigated the lower 40's route while the rest of the world was busy blowing itself up. In fact he was boarded by the Japanese and he convinced them he was not a spy as he had no radio. Everyday it seemed was a heavy weather day in the lower 40's. Then of course you have to read everything by the Hiscocks, and most definitely Larry and Lynn Pardey. Heavy weather sailing is something you have to learn to deal with. You also need to have confidence that you can learn these techniques.
I would much rather get knocked down in a blow than get run over by a bus while eating my Egg McMuffin on the way to work.
I'm curious: How was the Contessa 32 seen in the video shipped to Brazil? Cargo or sailing trip?
She was shipped. :)
I will own one
Please when you make my contessa , don't smash anything against it. Thanks. (joking)
Oh you spoil sport! ;)
+Jessie Rogers Sorry just joking. Great boats.
How much are they ?
certains comparent au centurion 32 quelle blague rien a voir . plus rapide , elegant , solide , tres classe petit SWAN
J'en ai un depuis 1976 et dans la taille il n'y a pas mieux . vitesse securite elegance le must et ca ne pourri pas . c'est toujours possible de lui faire peau neuve ca c'est formidable .certains comparent avec centurion 32 ???????!!!!!!! probleme de vue pas de point de vue .
Love one but I doubt in my lifetime I could afford half a million AU dollars. Guess I will keep dreaming.
Plenty of second hand ones out there!
Does it have a bolt on keel or enscapulated keel
Wash your mouth out sir! 😁Of course it's an encapsulated keel! Only the very best and strongest for the Contessa yachts! 👍
Give me a 26 over that one
contessa 32 or an s&s 34?
This is a Contessa 32 The Sparkman and Stephens Contessa was a 38 - there were only 6 built. There are about 700 Contessa 32s so much more out there! There are also some Contessa 38s (which then got reimagined as DAWN 39s)
Very pretty cult boat. A seriously seaworthy classic.
Well... If it survived Fastnet 79...
nice boat and film! but what a damned beat in it! please make one withouth music!