San Juan 33 S Information, Review, Specs

The San Juan 33 S emerged from the drafting board of David Pedrick, a designer recognized for creating performance-oriented vessels. Its production run, albeit brief, from 1981 to 1982, placed it towards the later years of the Clark Boat Company's operation. The Clark Boat Company, founded by Bob Clark in 1960, built a strong reputation for producing "well made, easily sailable boats that provided a solid value for the family sailor." During this era, Clark was known for its forward-thinking approach to fiberglass construction, employing methods such as gelcoat application to hull molds followed by hand-laid fiberglass to ensure robust and durable boats. The design goals for the San Juan 33 S were clear: to create a racer that emphasized speed and agility, building upon the success of earlier performance-focused San Juan models. This ethos aligned perfectly with Clark's manufacturing philosophy, combining a performance design with solid, value-driven construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The San Juan 33 S exhibits characteristics indicative of a potent performance sailboat, a result of its carefully balanced design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 23.06, she boasts a generous sail plan that translates to excellent light-air performance. Her remarkable Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.614 signifies exceptional stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up to significant wind and carry sail effectively. This high ballast ratio is uncommon for production sailboats, pointing to a design focused on powerful performance. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 118.43 categorizes the San Juan 33 S as a very light, performance-oriented vessel, contributing to its agility.

Owners and reviewers frequently note that the San Juan 33 S is "VERY quick in Light Air and off wind, yet is very respectable upwind." Sailors praise its "lovely feel to the helm," indicating a responsive and engaging steering experience. The emphasis on speed and agility in its design is evident in its handling characteristics. Moreover, the San Juan 33 S is often described as a boat that can be sailed short-handed, with some configurations featuring a self-tacking jib, further simplifying maneuvers like tacking. Its PHRF rating of approximately 126 further underscores its competitive nature on the racecourse.

Accommodations and Layout

While primarily designed for performance, the San Juan 33 S also offers a functional interior suitable for coastal cruising. The cabin features "comfortable sit up head room," suggesting that while full standing headroom may not be present throughout, there is ample space to be comfortable below deck, particularly when seated. This layout supports a social environment, described as a "great boat for celebrating with friends in the interior, sitting down." The focus on a more open and usable interior aligns with the concept of a performance boat that can also serve as a capable coastal cruiser, offering a retreat after a spirited day of sailing. The construction materials typical of Clark Boat Company, primarily hand-laid fiberglass, would have provided a durable and easily maintained interior.