The Vancouver 32 is a popular sailing boat designed by Robert Harris and built by Northshore Yachts in the United Kingdom. It is a sturdy and seaworthy vessel known for its excellent performance in both coastal cruising and offshore passages.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Vancouver 32:
1. Construction: The Vancouver 32 is built using high-quality materials, including hand-laid fiberglass with a solid laminate below the waterline and a balsa core above. This construction method ensures strength and durability.
2. Design: The boat features a traditional long keel with a moderate draft, making it suitable for both shallow and deep waters. The hull shape is designed to provide stability and a comfortable motion at sea.
3. Size and Layout: The Vancouver 32 has an overall length of approximately 32 feet (9.75 meters) and a beam of around 10 feet (3 meters). It typically accommodates a small crew of two to four people. The interior layout includes a forward cabin, a saloon with a galley and seating area, a navigation station, a head (bathroom), and a quarter berth.
4. Sailing Performance: The Vancouver 32 is known for its excellent sailing performance, especially in heavy weather conditions. It has a cutter rig, which means it has two headsails (a genoa and a staysail) and a mainsail. This rig configuration allows for versatile sail combinations and better balance in varying wind conditions.
5. Seaworthiness: The boat's design and construction make it highly seaworthy, capable of handling rough seas and long-distance passages. The Vancouver 32 has a reputation for being a safe and reliable vessel, with many owners having completed extensive offshore voyages.
6. Interior Comfort: Despite its relatively compact size, the Vancouver 32 offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior. The layout is designed to maximize space and storage, with ample headroom and well-placed handholds for safety at sea.
7. Reputation: The Vancouver 32 has gained a strong reputation among sailors for its quality craftsmanship, seaworthiness, and overall performance. It is often considered a classic bluewater cruising yacht, suitable for extended voyages and liveaboard lifestyles.
Overall, the Vancouver 32 is a well-regarded sailing boat that combines traditional design elements with modern construction techniques. Its versatility, seaworthiness, and comfortable interior make it a popular choice among sailors looking for a reliable and capable vessel.
