Coronado 32 Information, Review, Specs

The Coronado 32 emerged during a pivotal era for Coronado Yachts, a brand that had been acquired by the Whittaker Corporation in 1968 and subsequently operated as an "alternative brand" to Columbia Yachts. Production of the Coronado 32 began in 1973 and concluded in 1974, marking it as one of the later models under the Coronado nameplate before the brand's eventual discontinuation in 1976. The design lineage of the Coronado 32 is notable, being attributed to William H. Tripp Jr., a designer celebrated for creating yachts that combined aesthetic appeal with practical cruising characteristics. While specific design philosophies for the Coronado 32 are not extensively documented, Tripp's general approach often emphasized seaworthiness and comfortable accommodations, aligning with Coronado's broader mission to provide accessible cruisers. The builder, Coronado Yachts, was recognized for producing popular sailboats during this period, often focusing on practical designs that appealed to a wide sailing public. The boat was also offered in a shoal draft version, reducing the maximum draft from 5.83 feet to 3.92 feet, with a corresponding increase in displacement and ballast to maintain stability. The dimensions provided in the specifications are for a tall rig version.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Coronado 32, with a length overall of just under 32 feet and a waterline length of 27 feet, is characterized by a design prioritizing comfort and stability over outright speed. With a displacement of 11,800 lbs and a calculated displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 267.6, she falls into the category of a moderately heavy displacement cruiser. This indicates a boat that will offer a comfortable motion in a seaway, though perhaps not the fastest upwind or in very light conditions.

Her sail area-to-displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 13.75 (with some sources citing 12.64), suggests that the Coronado 32 is moderately powered, capable of respectable performance in average breezes but potentially requiring more wind to truly get moving. The boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.43 indicates a good degree of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a decent amount of wind without excessive heeling. The hull features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a common configuration of the era known for a good balance between directional stability and maneuverability. While some anecdotal reports suggest it has a "more speedy hull design" for its class and is "more comfortable than 86% of all similar sailboat designs," other owner perspectives imply it can be a "mediocre boat at best, and not of great sailing qualities," with some even describing it as sailing "like a pig." This varied feedback often highlights the importance of individual boat condition and owner expectations.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Coronado 32 was designed to provide comfortable cruising accommodations, typical for a boat of its size and era. While specific headroom figures are not available in the provided data, interior arrangement plans for both the original and "Mk II" versions suggest a conventional layout aimed at maximizing living space.

A typical arrangement would likely feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley area, and a navigation station. A private head compartment would be situated, often between the V-berth and the salon or aft near the companionway. Quarter berths are also common in boats of this size from the period. The finish quality generally consisted of a combination of fiberglass liners and wood trim, offering a practical and reasonably durable interior. Storage was usually ample for extended cruising, with lockers and shelves throughout the cabin. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owner feedback on the Coronado 32 is somewhat mixed, reflecting the boat's age and its original positioning as an accessible cruiser. Many owners praise its solid fiberglass construction, which has generally held up well over the decades, attributing to its retained value and loyal owner base. Owners often highlight the comfortable motion of the boat in a seaway, making it suitable for coastal cruising and occasional offshore passages.

However, common maintenance issues and weaknesses are also frequently noted. Some owners express concerns regarding the boat's sailing performance, suggesting it may not be as spirited as more performance-oriented designs. While the states the ballast is lead, there are discussions among owners about potential issues with cast iron keels (if present in some variations) and their susceptibility to rust. Given the boat's vintage, issues such as original deck fittings developing leaks, requiring re-bedding, and the need for significant upgrades to electrical, plumbing, and engine systems are common themes in owner forums. Despite these potential challenges, a dedicated community of Coronado owners continues to maintain and enjoy these classic vessels, drawn to their reputation as stable, relatively simple cruising boats that offer good value on the used market.