Roughwater 33 Information, Review, Specs

The Roughwater 33 emerged from the burgeoning Taiwanese boatbuilding industry of the mid-1970s, a period when Chung Hwa Boat (CHB) was establishing itself as a significant exporter of durable vessels. Designed by Thomas Gillmer, who had transitioned to full-time yacht and ship replica design by 1967, the Roughwater 33 reflects his focus on practical and seaworthy designs. Chung Hwa Boat, like many Taiwanese builders of the era, embraced solid fiberglass as its primary construction material, a choice that promised durability and lower maintenance for owners. This ethos is evident in the Roughwater 33's very thick fiberglass construction, a hallmark of its old-style, robust build quality. The vessel's production spanned a decade, from 1975 to 1985, during which time it was marketed as a long-range cruising sailboat. While no major variations like "MkI" or "MkII" are widely documented, its shared heritage with the Aries 32 and Weatherly 32 suggests a consistent design philosophy emphasizing stability and comfort over outright speed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Roughwater 33 is distinctly a heavy-displacement cruiser, a characteristic reflected in its design ratios. With a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 381, it falls into the category of exceptionally heavy sailboats, suggesting a comfortable and forgiving motion in challenging conditions rather than a nimble performance. Its sail area-to-displacement ratio of around 12.1 indicates that it is an underpowered vessel, meaning it will require more wind to achieve hull speed and may struggle in lighter air. However, this is often a trade-off for the inherent stability and strong construction favored by bluewater sailors.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.33 signifies a reasonably stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze without excessive heel. This is complemented by its long keel hull type and transom-hung rudder, which are known for providing excellent directional stability, particularly beneficial for offshore passages where maintaining course is paramount. Reviewers note that the Roughwater 33 is more comfortable than 99% of similar sailboat designs, underscoring its ability to provide a smooth ride. It also boasts an excellent righting capability if capsized, further enhancing its suitability as a robust bluewater cruising boat. Powering the vessel is a 20 horsepower Yanmar diesel engine, utilizing a shaft drive system that typically requires less maintenance than other drive types.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Roughwater 33 are not extensively documented in widely available public resources, its designation as a long-range and bluewater cruiser implies a focus on practicality, comfort, and ample storage for extended living aboard. Boats of this era and intended purpose typically feature traditional interior arrangements designed to maximize usable space and provide secure handholds in a seaway. Given Chung Hwa Boat's reputation, primarily in powerboats, for quality craftsmanship and spacious, functional layouts, it can be inferred that similar attention was paid to the sailboat's interior design to appeal to cruising enthusiasts. Owners often prioritize robust joinery, durable materials, and thoughtful storage solutions on such vessels, suggesting the Roughwater 33 would likely offer these characteristics consistent with its heavy-duty construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Roughwater 33 frequently commend its solid construction, with many highlighting the very thick fiberglass hull as a testament to its enduring quality. This heavy-duty build provides a sense of security and reliability crucial for offshore sailing. The boat is often praised as a stunning bluewater cruising sailboat, valued for its ability to handle challenging conditions with comfort and stability. While the vessel's "underpowered" nature is a characteristic often noted, it is generally accepted by owners who prioritize seaworthiness and a comfortable motion over speed. The robust nature of the Roughwater 33 has cultivated a community of owners who appreciate its classic lines and dependable performance for long-distance cruising.