Sun Fast 32 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The Jeanneau Sun Fast 32 was in production from 1993 to 2001, embodying Jeanneau's commitment to innovation and quality during a period of significant growth and technological advancement for the company. During this era, Jeanneau, which had adopted fiberglass construction as early as 1958, focused on balancing performance with onboard comfort, a hallmark of their design philosophy. Philippe Briand, a long-standing collaborator with Jeanneau, designed the Sun Fast 32 with the specific goal of creating an "exceptional sailboat" that combines speed with ease of handling. The design aimed for a boat that "turns on a dime and handles heavy seas with ease." While the Sun Fast 32 was conceived as a performance-oriented model, Jeanneau also offered a more cruising-focused counterpart, the Sun Odyssey 32-1, providing options for different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sun Fast 32, with a length overall of just over 31 feet and a waterline length of 26.41 feet, exhibits characteristics consistent with a responsive performance cruiser. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.14 indicates a healthy sail plan, suggesting good performance across a range of wind conditions, though perhaps excelling more in moderate to fresh breezes than in very light air.

The ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.34, contributes to its stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its canvas effectively and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 206 places it in the moderately light displacement category, aligning with its performance aspirations. This design translates into a boat renowned for its "excellent handling characteristics" and ability to "glide effortlessly through the water." Owners often report that the Sun Fast 32 is a fast sailing vessel, ideal for racing, and remains "stiff under full sail."

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on interior headroom are not readily available in the provided data, the Jeanneau Sun Fast 32 is known for its practical and comfortable accommodations designed for its size. The interior typically features a two-cabin layout, a common arrangement for yachts of this length from the era. The salon is described as "spacious" and refined, adhering to traditional marine aesthetics. Jeanneau's design philosophy prioritizes creating "liveable boats" with "clever layouts," ensuring a balance between performance and onboard amenities. The interior finish often incorporates classic elements such as a teak sole and varnished Makore woodwork, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Owners generally find the interior to be well-appointed, with a focus on functional comfort and quality materials.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Fast 32 frequently commend its robust construction and overall quality, often describing it as a "justly proud-looking boat" that attracts admiring comments. Its dual nature as both a capable racer and a comfortable cruiser is a consistent theme, with many highlighting its suitability for fast passages and competitive sailing. The attention to detail in its equipment set is also a noted positive. While specific common problems for the Sun Fast 32 are not widely reported, it is worth noting that a later iteration, the Sun Fast 32i, had a known keel issue that Jeanneau acknowledged and addressed. Overall, the Sun Fast 32 is regarded by its community as a well-built, engaging sailboat that delivers on its promise of performance without significantly compromising on cruising comfort.