Targa 32 review: The heritage brand’s new direction brings greater dynamism and easier handling

Some shipyards follow trends. Others go their own way. Targa has belonged to the latter category for decades. Anyone who takes a closer look at the 32-foot model in particular will quickly realise that this isn’t about lifestyle or mere showmanship. It’s about function, seaworthiness and an almost stoic form of consistency. That is precisely why the decision to now offer the tried-and-tested inboard-powered boat with outboard engines comes as a surprise. It is almost a bit like a classic off-road vehicle suddenly turning up with an electric drive – exciting, feasible, but somehow also in need of explanation.

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At first glance, from the jetty, the world remains much as it always was: the Targa 32 still sports its characteristic pilothouse, and the angular silhouette and the wraparound, safe side decks are still there too. Everything looks familiar – a Targa, in other words. It is only at the stern that it becomes clear the shipyard is taking a new approach. Where the stern drive and classic diesel engine would normally be hidden away, there are now two powerful and very prominent Mercury outboard motors.

This not only alters the boat’s appearance but also affects the usability of the entire stern area. As a result, the boat loses some of its familiar, almost classic look. It is a change that some will see as progress, whilst others will view it as a departure from the established style.

The brand remains true to itself

On board, the 32-footer is once again exactly as we know it. Targa remains true to itself and consistently avoids trendy gimmicks that would clash with the classic lines or the elegant woodwork. Instead, clean lines, robust materials and high-quality craftsmanship dominate. Nothing feels cluttered, nothing distracts.

The helm station is designed for functionality, offering excellent all-round visibility thanks to large windows and three windscreen wipers. The atmosphere on board is typical of a Targa: a blend
of holiday boat and workboat. Perhaps that is precisely what makes it an all-rounder for everyone. The shipyard itself promotes the boat with the slogan “4x4 on the water”. Somehow, that sums it up quite well. Whether for private or professional use.

Anyone who has ever travelled in the Nordic countries and had dealings with the local water police will know that the officers there also rely on Targas. And even here, there are a number of boats in use for a wide variety of tasks. They’re simply very robust.

Below deck on the Targa 32

Right next to the companionway leading to the forward cabin, there is a galley in the deckhouse with a two-burner hob and a sink built into the cupboard front. Behind this is a U-shaped sofa with a coffee table. The upholstery is comfortable and the whole area is slightly raised. This allows you to look comfortably forward over the bow onto the water whilst underway. Furthermore, the backrest on the short front side can be lifted up to create a comfortable passenger bench seat. The helmsman sits in a swivelling, spring-suspended upholstered chair fitted with armrests.

A few steps lead down to the under-deck cabin. It is spacious, though headroom is not particularly generous in all areas. There is a double bed on the port side and a single berth on the starboard side. Here, too, the upholstery is well made, and the whole room feels cosy. Ventilation is provided by hull windows that can be opened.

The forward cabin is available in two versions. The standard version simply features a sleeping area. This affects the deck layout. The foredeck is fitted with storage lockers and seating. However, if you want more space below deck and prefer a central bed, you’ll need to opt for the CFC version. The abbreviation stands for Comfort Fore Cabin. The storage lockers on deck are then removed to make way for more space and significantly more headroom in the cabin. The cabin is also finished to a higher standard, with brass lamps, wood panelling and a few other touches.

Ultimately, you need to decide whether the owner’s cabin should be at the bow or amidships, and how spacious the sleeping area should be. Naturally, there is also a wet room. The toilet has everything you need for longer cruises. However, there are no extravagant design features to be found here either. The designers were not concerned with creating as much of a sense of space as possible, but rather with ensuring that everything has its place and functions properly in rough seas.

This is how the Targa 32 performs on the water

Now let’s cast off! The outboard motors give the Targa 32 a whole new dynamic. The acceleration feels noticeably more direct; the boat seems livelier, almost more playful than the version with a stern drive. The transition into planing is quicker and more controlled, without losing the hull’s characteristic smoothness. The advantages of this propulsion system are particularly evident in harbours with narrow berths or when manoeuvring in confined spaces.

Test results for the Targa 32

* This is the most fuel-efficient range during a smooth cruise. Measured during our test with five people on board, very little swell and an eight-knot wind. 65 per cent petrol in the tank, 5 per cent water.

The boat handles more precisely, responds instantly to throttle inputs and feels, overall, more responsive and less cumbersome than one might expect from a classic Targa when cruising in harbour. On open water, this impression is somewhat put into perspective – and that is meant in a thoroughly positive sense. At cruising speed, the 32 continues to demonstrate its well-known strengths. It runs steadily, sits firmly in the water and conveys a high degree of safety even in unpleasant conditions.

The hull cuts cleanly through the waves, and the boat remains predictable at all times. The new propulsion system therefore does not alter the Targa’s character; rather, it adds an extra dimension to it. The handling is comparable to, or even identical to, that of the inboard model. The bow lifts slightly when accelerating, but not so much that you can no longer see ahead whilst seated. The option for trim tabs is almost unnecessary. The boat handles well even with the trim system switched off.

The Targa handles the slalom course, sudden evasive manoeuvres and turning in tight circles with the steering fully turned with ease, scoring top marks. The two Mercury engines also make manoeuvring easier in these situations. Anyone who purchases the joystick option will also appreciate the boat’s ability to drive sideways. A stern thruster is no longer necessary and handling is easier than with conventional propulsion systems.

The outboard concept makes sense

One issue that must not be overlooked is the noise level. Outboard motors naturally produce a different acoustic presence to inboard engines. The sound is more direct, particularly at higher revs, and is therefore more clearly audible in the wheelhouse as well. This is not a major drawback, but a difference one has to get used to. The situation is similar when it comes to fuel consumption. Modern outboard engines operate efficiently, particularly in the mid-range. Nevertheless, the energy requirements of such a boat are noticeable.

In everyday use, however, the outboard design offers clear advantages. Maintenance and servicing are simpler, and many parts are more easily accessible. Handling in the harbour or during winter storage is also less complicated. The question of how outboard motors will fare in the long term under the tough, typical conditions of Targa racing can actually be answered with “No problems”. Modern outboard motors are built so robustly that they can basically withstand any weather.

All in all, the Targa 32 with outboard engines is not a radical reinvention, but rather a logical evolution of the popular boat. The new propulsion system offers greater agility and suitability for everyday use without diluting the core of the concept. Perhaps that is precisely the greatest strength of this variant: it does not attempt to be something completely different, but rather expands on the familiar with a contemporary option.

Purists may find this takes some getting used to. For others, it is likely to be exactly the right move at the right time. For many, outboard motors are increasingly becoming the power of choice.

BOOTE review of the Targa 32

The Targa 32 with outboard engines is not a revolution, but a well-thought-out evolution. It combines the Targa’s classic strengths – such as robustness, seaworthiness and functionality – with greater dynamism and easier handling in everyday use. The new propulsion system offers clear advantages and represents a step into the modern world of boating.

Design and concept

Greater benefits for everyone

This opens up the US market

A departure from the traditional shipyard model

Driving and steering

Greater agility

Seaworthiness is maintained

Housing and build quality

The design remains true to the shipyard’s philosophy

Ship-like interior

Equipment and technology

Good build quality

The Targa 32 in detail

Technical specifications of the Targa 32

• ​CE design category: B / 8
• Total length: 10.78 m
• Width: 3.37 m
• Draught: 1.10 m
• Clearance height: 3.90 m
• Weight: 6,300 kg
• Minimum engine size: 2 x 300 hp
• Max. engine power: 2 x 400 hp
• Fuel tank: 1,200 litres
• Water tank: 150 litres
• Waste tank: 100 litres
• Hot water: 20 litres
• Batteries: 2 x 120 Ah
• Berths: 2 + 3
• Kilograms per horsepower: 7.87

Engine

• ​Manufacturer: Mercury
• Type: Verado F 400
• Quantity: 2
• Performance: 400 hp
• Full-load speed: 6,400 rpm
• Cylinder: V10
• Engine capacity: 5,700 cc
• Fuel: Petrol

Rear dimensions

• Length: 1.41 m
• Width: 2.15 m

Running deck

• Width: 0.39 m
• Surface: Teak

Sound pressure

Targa has been committed to effective sound insulation for years. This boat is no exception. The outboard motors are also well insulated. The fact that they are positioned well away from the interior further helps to ensure that noise levels in the deck saloon remain at an acceptable level.

Standard equipment

Fire extinguisher · Double stern doors · Antifouling · LED lighting · Bow thruster · 18-watt LED work light · 50-amp charger · 230-volt on-board system with sockets · Windscreen wipers · Carpet · Trim tabs · Searchlight

Construction method

The boat is constructed using a fibreglass sandwich construction method. Urethane foam is used as the core material. This core material is also used in the stringers and bulkheads. The shipyard uses polyester resin.

Manoeuvring aids

A bow thruster with 80 kilograms of thrust is already fitted as standard, including a backup battery. This means the system is well-specified.

Drives

A total of 13 different engines are available, ranging from single-engine inboards with outputs between 400 and 480 hp to twin-engine setups with outputs between 460 and 800 hp. In addition, there are three twin outboard variants with 600, 700 or 800 hp.

Teak

Fine wood simply belongs in a Targa. If you opt for the teak deck from the options list, it will cost an additional €14,750.

Sales

targa-yachten.de

shipyard

targa.fi

Price and specifications

• Price: from €372,470
• ​Surcharge for comfort features: Auto-trimming system included; electric anchor winch €4,796, bow thruster included, cockpit decking included, soft top included, VHF radio included, autopilot included, chart plotter included, Charger included, shore power connection included, 230-volt socket included, heating €5,135, pressurised water system included, hot water boiler included, shower and toilet compartment included, outdoor shower included
• Special offer price: €382,401

Alternatives on the market

Sargo 31

The Sargo 31 is the Targa’s direct competitor. The boats are similar in appearance, intended use and handling. It is also available with two outboard engines.

Nordstar 31+

When talking about this type of boat, the Nordstar 31 is a must-mention. It has built up a strong reputation in the market and is also available with outboard engines.

Paragon 31 Cabin

Visually, the Paragon 31 resembles the Targa in terms of its deckhouse. However, the hull is significantly sportier and designed more in the style of a rigid-hulled inflatable boat without the inflatable tubes.

ADVERTISEMENT

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* Offer from Yachting24 valid for a sum insured of €372,400 (at current market value), an excess of €1,500, and third-party liability cover of €8 million.