Banner 32 Information, Review, Specs

The Banner 32 began its production run in 1982 under the craftsmanship of Cooper Enterprises Inc.. The builder, founded by Forbes Cooper in 1970, was a significant force in British Columbia's yacht-building industry, known for producing well-regarded vessels. While Cooper Enterprises Inc. ceased its boat manufacturing operations in 1990, the Banner 32 represents a period where the company, having previously built licensed Catalina models, also developed its own distinct sailboat designs. The Banner 32 was specifically designed by Stan Huntingford with the role of a cruiser in mind, suggesting an emphasis on comfort, stability, and seaworthiness over outright racing performance. There is no widely documented information suggesting significant variations or "Mk" versions of the Banner 32 during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 10,500 pounds and a waterline length of 26.0 feet, the Banner 32 carries a Displacement to Length Ratio (DL-ratio) of 267. 1st search, 1 This places it in the category of moderately heavy displacement, typical for a traditional cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a light, agile feel. 1st search, 1 The Ballast to Displacement Ratio stands at 30%, which is on the lower side for a cruising sailboat. 1st search, 1 While many respected cruising boats have ratios around 30-40%, a lower percentage generally indicates less stiffness, meaning the boat may heel more readily in stronger winds compared to designs with higher ballast ratios. 1st search, 13, 14

The Banner 32 features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a combination known for providing good maneuverability and protection for the rudder 1st search, 1, 4. Anecdotal accounts suggest the boat is "somewhat slow below 8-10 knots" but performs "great above" this wind speed. 1st search, 19 Overall, while some reviews describe it as "not a great sailing boat, relatively slow," it appears to be a capable performer once the wind picks up, consistent with its cruiser design brief 1st search, 15, 19. The specific Sail Area to Displacement Ratio, a measure of sail power, is not widely published, but the qualitative assessments suggest it may be on the lower side, contributing to its performance characteristics in lighter air.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed interior layouts for the Cooper Banner 32 are not extensively documented through grounded search. However, as a 32-foot cruiser of its era, one can expect a practical and functional interior designed for comfortable living aboard during coastal trips. Typical arrangements for boats of this size from the 1980s often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a galley, and an enclosed head. While specific headroom figures are not available, builders like Cooper Enterprises Inc. generally aimed for adequate standing room in key areas. The construction ethos of Cooper, known for well-regarded vessels, suggests a sturdy, if not luxurious, finish quality with practical use of materials.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cooper Banner 32 generally appreciate its solid construction and capabilities as a cruiser. 1st search, 15, 19 A common point of discussion among owners revolves around its sailing performance, with some noting it can be "somewhat slow below 8-10 knots." 1st search, 19 However, there is a consensus that the boat performs well in more robust wind conditions, described as "great above" moderate wind speeds. 1st search, 19 This suggests that while it may not be a light-air speed demon, the Banner 32 offers a stable and reliable ride when the breeze fills in, making it a suitable choice for those prioritizing comfort and dependability over outright speed in all conditions. 1st search, 15