Sailing Performance & Handling
The handling characteristics of the Show 32 are deeply influenced by Alain Jezequel's design philosophy, which prioritized upwind efficiency and responsiveness. Unlike some IOR designs that suffered from excessive "tumblehome" and pinched sterns, the Show 32 carries its beam slightly further aft, providing better stability when reached. However, it remains a product of its time; the boat features a high-aspect-ratio rig and a significant genoa overlap, requiring an active crew to manage sail trim effectively in varying wind strengths.
In light airs, the Show 32 is exceptionally nimble, a trait common to many Barberis models designed for the often-light conditions of the Mediterranean. Owners frequently report that the boat "comes alive" in 8 to 12 knots of breeze, pointing high and maintaining momentum through the tack. When the wind picks up, the relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio ensures the boat stays stiff, though, like most IOR-influenced hulls, it can become "touchy" on the helm when over-canvassed downwind. Technical insights from European marine archives suggest the boat's fin keel and deep spade rudder provide excellent tracking, making it feel more like a larger yacht than its 32-foot length would imply.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Show 32 reflects the high standards of Italian joinery that defined Cantieri Barberis during its golden age. The layout is traditional yet functional, designed to accommodate a family of four to five for extended periods. Upon descending the companionway, one finds a well-appointed L-shaped galley to port and a proper forward-facing navigation station to starboard—a feature often sacrificed in modern boats of this size.
The salon features two longitudinal settees with a central folding table, which can be converted into additional berths. A key differentiator for the Show 32 compared to its smaller sibling, the Show 29, is the increased headroom and the more generous proportions of the forward V-berth. The use of warm teak and high-quality upholstery was a hallmark of the yard, creating a cabin environment that feels substantial and well-insulated. While most Show 32s were delivered with a standard layout, some minor variations exist in the cabinetry around the companionway, depending on whether the original owner opted for additional storage or a deeper quarter berth on the port side.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Show 32 should focus their inspection on several era-specific technical areas. As with many fiberglass boats built in the early 1980s, the hull should be thoroughly checked for signs of osmosis, particularly if the vessel has spent its life in warmer Mediterranean waters without a modern epoxy barrier coat.
- Deck Core Integrity: The Show 32 utilizes a sandwich construction for its deck. It is critical to check for "soft spots" or delamination around high-load areas such as the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step, where moisture may have penetrated the core over time.
- Rudder Bearing Wear: The spade rudder is a high-performance feature but is prone to developing play in the bearings. An inspection should involve checking for lateral movement while the boat is hauled out.
- Engine Maintenance: Many Show 32s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta or Bukh diesel engines. While robust, these units may be reaching the end of their service life; buyers should look for evidence of manifold corrosion or seal leaks in the sail drive, if so equipped.
- Rigging and Chainplates: Given the boat’s performance orientation, the standing rigging is often pushed hard. The internal chainplate attachments should be inspected for signs of weeping or fiberglass stress fractures.
Community & Resources
While there is no singular global owner’s association, the Show 32 enjoys a strong following within the Associazione Mitiche Barberis, a dedicated group of Italian enthusiasts focused on the preservation and celebration of the Cantieri Barberis legacy. Technical discussions and historical documentation are also frequently shared within Mediterranean-based sailing forums, where the "Show" series is regarded with the same nostalgic reverence as the early Grand Soleil or Comar models.
The Verdict
The Show 32 is a quintessential classic that offers a sophisticated blend of Italian style and genuine sailing performance. It is a boat for the "sailor's sailor"—someone who appreciates the feedback of a well-balanced helm and the aesthetics of a bygone era of yacht design.
Pros:
- Excellent light-air performance and upwind pointing ability.
- High-quality interior joinery and a functional, sea-going layout.
- Timeless, elegant lines that stand out in a sea of modern "bubble" cruisers.
- Strong construction from a shipyard with a prestigious pedigree.
Cons:
- IOR hull characteristics can make it temperamental when running downwind in heavy seas.
- Large overlapping headsails require significant winch work for a short-handed crew.
- Common age-related issues such as potential osmosis or deck core moisture require careful vetting.
