Offshore 33 (Cheoy Lee) Sloop Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 33 Sloop commenced in 1971. During this era, Cheoy Lee Shipyard, a family-owned business tracing its roots back to 1870, was a pioneering force in fiberglass construction, having embraced GRP and foam sandwich technology in the mid-1960s. The builder's ethos at the time focused on dependable products, innovative design, and exceptional craftsmanship. While the Offshore 33 was offered in both sloop and ketch configurations, the rig dimensions in the provided specifications align with a sloop rig, distinguishing it from ketch variants that were also available. Cheoy Lee's Offshore series, which included models like the Offshore 36, 40, 47, and 53, gained significant popularity for their robust construction and seaworthiness, traits that were central to the Offshore 33's design. The Offshore 33 continued in production through at least 1978.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Offshore 33 Sloop is characterized as a heavy displacement sailboat, reflecting its design as a sturdy cruiser. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 300.74, she falls into the heavier category, suggesting a comfortable and stable ride in various sea states, albeit at the expense of outright speed. Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 15.58 indicates a moderately powered vessel, capable of respectable performance in a good breeze but not necessarily a top performer in light winds. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 28.04% suggests a reasonably stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up to wind with a good righting capability despite a moderate ballast proportion. Owners generally find the Offshore 33 to be a seaworthy and forgiving vessel, well-suited for its intended cruising purpose.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 33 Sloop, like many Cheoy Lee yachts of its era, typically features a classic layout designed for comfortable cruising. While specific headroom figures are not available, line drawings of the interior layout show a conventional arrangement. These boats commonly feature a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment. The main salon would usually include settees that often convert to berths, surrounding a dinette. A compact galley, typically aft on one side, and a navigation station or quarter berth on the opposing side, complete the main living areas. Cheoy Lee was known for its quality finishes, often incorporating classic teak joinery and robust fiberglass construction throughout the interior. Storage would be adequate for extended cruising, with lockers and shelves integrated into the design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Cheoy Lee Offshore 33 sloops often praise the solid construction of the hull and its comfortable motion underway. The vessel is generally regarded as a well-built boat for its time, designed to handle offshore conditions with confidence. However, common issues noted by owners of Cheoy Lee yachts from this period, which may also apply to the Offshore 33, can include leaking deck fittings, such as toerails and port lights, which often require re-bedding after decades of service. Instances of cracked tile in the galley have also been noted, potentially indicating underlying issues with the sub-structure. Despite these potential maintenance items typical of older vessels, the overall consensus points to a durable and capable cruising boat that offers a rewarding ownership experience for those willing to address its age-related upkeep.