Swiftsure 33 (Rhodes) Information, Review, Specs

The narrative of the Swiftsure 33 begins in 1959, marking a significant period for its builder, Amsterdam Shipyard G. de Vries Lentsch, as they ventured into fiberglass yacht construction. The shipyard, with a century-long heritage in boat building, established a dedicated division for fiberglass yachts that year, positioning itself at the forefront of modern techniques. The Swiftsure 33, built until 1965, emerged from a collaboration between G. de Vries Lentsch and the renowned American designer Philip Rhodes, known for his commitment to classic elegance, robust construction, and seaworthy designs. The vessel was primarily marketed in the US through Seafarer Yachts.

Philip Rhodes' design philosophy emphasized a harmonious blend of aesthetics, comfort, and offshore capability. The Swiftsure 33, designated Rhodes Design #692, embodies this ethos, presenting a full-keel/centerboard hull type that provides both shallow draft accessibility and enhanced upwind performance with the board down.

During its production run, the Swiftsure 33 saw some variations, notably between the original design and a later model marketed as the "Commodore Swiftsure". Both versions share the same fundamental hull shape, exterior deck layout, and sailplan, though slight differences in displacement and ballast may exist. The initial boats, built by G. de Vries Lentsch, featured a permanently-fixed cabin table and bronze deck hardware with mahogany trim. The later Commodore version, mostly built by Royal Netherlands Aircraft, introduced a cabin table that could completely fold away and featured stainless steel and aluminum hardware with teak trim, reflecting evolving production practices and material availability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Swiftsure 33, with its masthead sloop rig, presents a balanced approach to sailing performance, prioritizing comfort and seaworthiness over outright speed. Its design ratios offer insight into its character:

• Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D): At approximately 15.76, the Swiftsure 33's SA/D ratio suggests it is a moderately powered sailboat. It will likely perform best in moderate to fresh breezes, offering a comfortable motion rather than exhilarating light-air speed. This ratio is typical of a boat designed for reliable cruising.
• Ballast to Displacement (B/D): With a ballast ratio of around 29.6%, the Swiftsure 33 might appear to have a relatively low percentage of ballast compared to some modern designs. However, its full-keel hull form provides significant form stability, compensating for this. This configuration contributes to a comfortable, stable ride, particularly in a seaway.
• Displacement to Length (D/L): A high D/L ratio of approximately 426 places the Swiftsure 33 firmly in the heavy displacement category. This indicates a solid, robustly built vessel with a comfortable motion, capable of handling rough conditions. While not designed for racing, its substantial displacement contributes to its renowned seaworthiness and ability to track well through waves.

Owners and reviewers often praise the Swiftsure 33 for its stable and predictable handling. The centerboard configuration allows for a shallow draft when retracted, enabling access to shallower anchorages, while providing excellent upwind performance when deployed. Its full keel ensures good directional stability, making it a comfortable boat for coastal cruising and potentially offshore passages, although it might be described as "tender" by some, meaning it may heel readily in a breeze.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not detailed in the provided data, the Swiftsure 33 is generally regarded as offering a traditional and functional interior suitable for cruising. Layouts typically feature a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment. The main salon usually includes settees that can serve as berths, often with a folding or permanent table in the center. A galley area, commonly to port or starboard, would provide basic amenities for cooking. Quarter berths aft are also a common feature, maximizing sleeping capacity. The original G. de Vries Lentsch built boats had a permanently-fixed cabin table, while later Commodore versions had a folding table for more open space.

Interior finishes in these classic vessels often featured rich wood trim, such as mahogany in the original models and teak in the Commodore versions, contributing to a warm and classic ambiance. Storage is typically ample for a boat of its size, with lockers and shelves throughout. Ventilation would rely on deck hatches and opening ports, common for boats of its era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Rhodes Swiftsure 33 for its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics, making it a highly regarded classic cruising yacht. The traditional full-keel/centerboard design is often highlighted for its robust build and comfortable motion in challenging seas. Many owners appreciate its classic lines and the enduring quality associated with Philip Rhodes' designs and the craftsmanship of Amsterdam Shipyard G. de Vries Lentsch.

However, as with any classic vessel, there are common considerations. Recurring maintenance issues often involve the centerboard mechanism and older deck fittings, which might require re-bedding to prevent leaks. Owners undertaking restorations often prioritize stripping and reconditioning the original interior components. Despite these typical challenges for older boats, the Swiftsure 33 fosters a dedicated community of enthusiasts who value its heritage and performance, often sharing insights and restoration tips in online forums. Its reputation as a well-designed and well-made boat endures among those seeking a capable and aesthetically pleasing traditional cruiser.