Offshore 33 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The journey of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 33 began in 1971, during a pivotal era for Cheoy Lee Shipyard. Having relocated to Hong Kong in 1936 and rapidly diversified into pleasure craft, Cheoy Lee emerged as a leader in marine construction by the mid-1960s, being among the first to extensively utilize fiberglass as a boatbuilding material. The Offshore series, of which the 33 is a part, became particularly popular, celebrated for its solid construction and seaworthiness.

The Offshore 33 was offered in both ketch and sloop configurations, though the ketch rig is a defining characteristic of many models. Its construction features a solid fiberglass hull, deck, and cabin trunk, molded to Lloyd's specifications 100A, with hull thickness ranging from 7/16" to 1". This robust build quality reflects Cheoy Lee's overarching manufacturing ethos during this period, focusing on strength and longevity. While specific design philosophies for the Offshore 33 are not extensively documented beyond its inclusion in the broader "Offshore" line, the design clearly prioritizes stability and comfort over outright speed, aligning with the needs of a traditional cruiser.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Offshore 33, with its long keel hull type and ketch rig, exhibits characteristics of a capable and steady cruising sailboat. Its calculated performance ratios provide insight into its on-water behavior:

• Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) Ratio of 15.49: This ratio suggests that the Offshore 33 is a moderate performer, not designed for extreme light-air speed. Instead, it indicates a boat that carries its sail area comfortably in a range of conditions, favoring stability over blistering pace.
• Ballast to Displacement (B/D) Ratio of 0.28: A ballast-to-displacement ratio of 28% is moderate for a cruising sailboat. Combined with its long keel, this contributes to a stable and forgiving motion, capable of standing up to moderate winds without excessive heeling, although it may not offer the extreme stiffness of more performance-oriented designs.
• Displacement to Length (D/L) Ratio of 301.08: A D/L ratio above 300 firmly places the Offshore 33 in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser. This heavy displacement contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, making for a less jarring ride in rough conditions, though it also means the boat will have more inertia and generally slower acceleration.

The ketch rig, with its divided sail plan, is generally regarded as easier to handle than a large single mast, as it allows for smaller individual sails, simplifying reefing and sail changes. Its long keel design offers excellent directional stability, which translates to a steady helm and good tracking on long passages, albeit with a larger turning radius compared to modern fin-keel designs.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 33 is configured for cruising comfort, though detailed layouts can vary. While specific headroom dimensions are not always available, comments from owners suggest that individuals around 6'4" might find fitting spaces in certain areas of the cabin. Cheoy Lee's reputation for fine craftsmanship extends to its interiors, often featuring traditional wood trim and a sturdy finish.

Owners have noted common interior features such as a tiled galley, which, while aesthetically pleasing, has sometimes been a point of maintenance with reports of cracked tiles indicating potential underlying issues. General storage is expected to be ample for a boat of its size, consistent with its cruising aspirations. The solid fiberglass hull and deck construction, while ensuring structural integrity, means that ventilation can be a key consideration, often addressed through deck hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 33 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, often highlighting its suitability for offshore cruising. The traditional design, often featuring classic teak toe rails and cockpit decks, is also a significant draw for many. These vessels are admired for their robust build and the comfortable motion they provide in a seaway.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Offshore 33 can present common maintenance challenges. A recurring issue noted by owners relates to deck integrity, with reports of original deck fittings and port lights developing leaks, often requiring re-bedding. The presence of "cracked tile in the galley" has been mentioned, potentially indicating broader underlying issues, especially on older models. Consequently, stripping and re-bedding deck components is a common project undertaken by owners. Despite these maintenance considerations, the enduring quality of the Cheoy Lee hull and the Offshore 33's classic appeal continue to make it a cherished vessel for those who appreciate its traditional cruising capabilities.