Cooper 416 Information, Review, Specs

Under the leadership of Forbes Cooper, Cooper Enterprises Inc. became a significant force in British Columbia's yacht-building industry. The company was known for producing well-regarded vessels, blending robust construction with comfortable and functional layouts, an ethos clearly reflected in the design and build of the 416.

History and Design

The Cooper 416 began its production run in 1978, representing a dedicated effort by Cooper Enterprises Inc. to offer a substantial cruising yacht to the North American market. Designed by Stan Huntingford, a respected naval architect known for his practical and seaworthy designs, the 416 was specifically envisioned as a cruiser. This design intent aligned perfectly with Cooper Yachts' manufacturing ethos during that era, which emphasized the creation of well-crafted vessels with durable construction and comfortable living spaces.

A notable aspect of the Cooper 416's history is its continuation under a different name. Following its initial production, the molds for the 416 were acquired by Bayliner/US Yachts, leading to the vessel being re-launched as the US 42. This transition underscores the enduring quality and appeal of Huntingford's original design. While specific variations like a Mark I or Mark II were not widely documented, the pilothouse configuration appears to be a prominent feature, often highlighted in descriptions of the model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cooper 416 is characterized by a design that prioritizes stability, comfort, and offshore capability over light-air racing performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 13.82, she is not intended to be a light-air flyer, suggesting she will perform more comfortably in moderate to heavier breezes rather than excelling in very light conditions.

Her high ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.4375 is a key indicator of her inherent stability and stiffness. This substantial ballast, comprised of lead, allows the Cooper 416 to stand up well to a blow, providing a secure and confident motion in a seaway. With a displacement to length ratio of around 312.1, the 416 falls into the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser. This generous displacement contributes to a comfortable ride, particularly in choppy conditions, and her hull speed is calculated at approximately 7.64 knots. Anecdotal accounts often describe the Cooper 416 as a comfortable boat, reinforcing the interpretation of its design ratios. Equipped with a masthead sloop rig, the vessel features a total calculated sail area of 723.25 square feet, ensuring ample canvas for offshore cruising. The skeg-hung rudder further contributes to directional stability and provides protection for the rudder itself.

Accommodations and Layout

The Cooper 416 is renowned for its generous and practical interior, reflecting its design as a comfortable cruiser. Many examples of the 416 feature a spacious pilothouse design, which offers excellent visibility and an inside steering station, a desirable feature for cruising in cooler climates or during inclement weather.

Typical interior layouts include a private double cabin aft, often accompanied by a quarter berth, providing ample sleeping accommodations. The main salon commonly features a U-shaped settee, offering a comfortable space for dining and socializing. The galley is typically U-shaped, a sea-kindly configuration, and often well-equipped with amenities such as a two-burner Force 10 oven. A dedicated chart table is usually part of the navigation station. The substantial beam of 14 feet allows for a roomy interior with good headroom, enhancing overall liveability. The vessel also boasts generous tankage, with a fuel capacity of 100 gallons and a water capacity of 150 gallons, underscoring its design for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cooper 416 frequently praise its solid construction and the comfortable motion it provides, especially in a seaway. This aligns with the reputation of Cooper Yachts as a builder of well-regarded vessels. The robust build quality, a hallmark of Forbes Cooper's company, contributes to the vessel's enduring appeal on the used boat market. While specific common issues are not widely documented, the general sentiment suggests that the Cooper 416 is a dependable and seaworthy boat, valued by those who prioritize comfort and stability for cruising.