The Black Horse 32 Express Cruiser took shape on the drawing board of Geoffrey Dickes, Dickes Yacht Design. Chuck Rooney of CR Rooney LLC had a customer with specific needs. He wanted a mid-size express capable of a dry ride, overnight comfort for day trips that didn't quite end at sunset, and the ability to "get away from trouble or ride it out".

The result is a yacht with a full keel and a 3-foot, 8-inch draft that provides solid footing below the waterline. Hull number one was cold-molded wood and epoxy construction. Subsequent hulls are to be vacuum-bagged foam core, thus requiring the fabrication of a now-completed mold.

Interior highlights include a forward V-berth, an enclosed head with Vacuflush toilet and separate shower, and a teak-and-holly sole. The deck, sans engine box, is uncluttered. A 350 hp Yanmar diesel is expected to provide a 22-knot cruise, and a 420 hp upgrade will be available.

Two recesses flank either side of the wheel on the vertical. A large screen of the buyer's choice is centerline on the helm, and two tiers of flat provide space for gauges, a plotter, a depth finder and an autopilot. The service panel is to starboard, just below a companion hatch and within easy reach. A high-profile, three-panel windshield has dedicated wipers.

Handrails are a substantial height, making transit to the bow non-hunched. CR Rooney LLC, (207) 833-2400; www.crrooney.com.