1974 CONTESSA 32 'HEIDI II' $19,500 Cdn

Classic Blue-Water Icon: 1974 Contessa 32 ‘Heidi II’    Available Now in Whitby, Ontario

Discover the vessel that redefined offshore seaworthiness for a generation. Breezeway Yachts is proud to present Heidi II, a legendary 1974 Contessa 32 built under license in Canada by the historic craftsmen at J.J. Taylor and Sons Ltd. Located in Whitby, Ontario, this pocket voyager represents a rare opportunity to own a timeless cruiser-racer with a legendary pedigree. While showing an average aesthetic condition for her vintage, she appears structurally above average, offering an exceptionally solid, rock-safe foundation for your next great sailing chapter.

The Heritage: Built to Brave the Seas

The story of the Contessa 32 is deeply intertwined with the gold standard of classic blue-water construction. Originally designed in 1970 by David Sadler and Jeremy Rogers in the UK, the design became an overnight sensation, celebrated globally for its ultimate stability and beautiful, traditional lines. Recognizing a passionate North American market, a select few hulls were licensed for construction by J.J. Taylor and Sons Ltd. in Toronto, Ontario. Operating from 1922 until the late 20th century, J.J. Taylor was renowned for bringing unparalleled Canadian craftsmanship and structural integrity to the fiberglass revolution, ensuring these boats were heavily laid up to conquer the Great Lakes and open oceans alike. 

Canadian-built Contessas like Heidi II carry unique, factory-engineered modifications specifically tailored to North American sailors. J.J. Taylor enhanced the design by implementing a robust, coremat-cored deck system for stiffness and an updated interior structure utilizing molded fiberglass components for easy maintenance and a brighter cabin layout. Combined with their legendary hand-laminated fiberglass hulls, these hulls have earned an enduring reputation among pocket-cruising purists for longevity, strength, and timeless style. 

The Legend: The Contessa 32 Experience

The Contessa 32 is globally revered as one of the most successful one-design cruiser-racers ever conceived. Its reputation for extreme seaworthiness was permanently etched into maritime history during the infamous 1979 Fastnet Race, where a Contessa 32 was the only yacht in the small-boat class to brave hurricane-force winds and finish the race unassisted. Featuring a high ballast ratio (47%) and an extraordinary angle of vanishing stability, this hull provides an unmatched feeling of safety, predictability, and control when the weather turns foul. 

On the water, Heidi II balances absolute safety with rewarding, responsive performance. Her narrow 9' 6" beam, moderate fin keel, and heavy-duty skeg-hung rudder allow her to cut through chop efficiently while tracking like an arrow on long-distance passages. She is notably stiff and excels when pointing upwind in a stiff breeze, offering a dry ride and forgiving handling characteristics that make her highly capable for short-handed or single-handed sailing. 

Step below deck, and you will find a traditional, sea-proven layout optimized for offshore safety and comfort. Unlike modern wide-beam boats that can feel insecure in heavy seas, the snug, ergonomic interior of the Contessa 32 ensures you always have a secure handhold within reach. The cabin features warm interior woodwork, classic teak and holly flooring, a dedicated half-Admiralty chart table for the offshore navigator, and a compact galley designed to function beautifully even at an angle of heel. 

For the discerning sailor searching for a proven blue-water cruiser under $30,000, Heidi II offers the ideal foundation. Her current condition makes her a fantastic canvas for minor cosmetic personalization, while her robust structural integrity ensures peace of mind out on Lake Ontario and beyond. Whether you are seeking a capable weekend cruiser or a classic offshore vessel to outfit for a world voyage, this Contessa 32 stands ready to fulfill your dreams.

Highlighted Features & Equipment

• Classic Pedigree: Iconic David Sadler design built under license by Canada's premier builder, J.J. Taylor and Sons Ltd. 
• Structural Integrity: Keel-stepped aluminum masthead sloop configuration with a heavy-duty skeg-hung rudder and moderate fin keel for ultimate blue-water stability. 
• Reliable Propulsion: Powered by a dependable Farymann inboard diesel engine.
• Sail Handling: Equipped with solid boom vang, whisker pole, and mast/boom layout.
• Accommodations: Sleeps up to 5 across a forward V-berth with cushions, a classic salon with two settees, and an aft starboard quarterberth. 
• Functional Interior: All-weather galley with sink, fridge, and stove, paired with a private marine head and integrated washroom sink.
• Cruising Ready: Solid frame for a custom Bimini, custom bow anchor roller, boarding ladder, and essential ground tackle (anchors and chain).

Why Choose Breezeway Yachts?

At Breezeway Yachts, we aren't just selling boats; we’re matching sailors with their next great memory. As a boutique yacht brokerage based in Toronto, Ontario, we pride ourselves on a personalized, high-touch approach.

With a dedicated team of yacht brokers across Ontario and a reach that extends throughout North America, we provide expert guidance for both buyers and sellers. Whether you are navigating the shores of Lake Ontario or looking for a vessel across the border, our local expertise and international network ensure a seamless transaction.

Breezeway Yachts, Boutique Yacht Brokerage in Toronto, Ontario, Serving Ontario and North America

Located Whitby, Ontario

Contact Tony Cahill at 647-385-8202