Countess 33 (Colvic) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Colvic Countess 33 was introduced in 1980 and remained in production until 1988. During this period, Colvic Craft, based on the Blackwater Estuary in Essex, England, was a leading force in the burgeoning fiberglass yacht market, widely recognized for its robust Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction. The company frequently supplied hulls and decks to other builders and private individuals for custom fit-outs, meaning variations in internal quality and layout are common across the Countess 33 fleet.

Designed by Ian Anderson, the Countess 33 was offered with either a fin keel or a bilge keel, catering to different cruising preferences, and could be rigged as a sloop or a ketch. Some versions even featured a pilothouse, further enhancing its appeal as a comfortable, all-weather cruiser. Anderson's design philosophy for the Countess 33 leaned towards creating a full-bodied yacht offering substantial living space and a secure motion, aligning with Colvic's ethos of producing reliable vessels for blue water cruising rather than focusing on cutting-edge performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 13.66, the Colvic Countess 33 is characterized as a heavier, more traditionally rigged cruiser, rather than a light-air performer. This ratio suggests she will require a decent breeze to get moving efficiently. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 37.6% indicates a moderate level of stability, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 233.0 places her firmly in the category of a moderate cruiser, reinforcing her nature as a robust, rather than lightweight, vessel.

Anecdotal evidence from owners and reviews often describes the Countess 33 as a "heavy" and "full-bodied" boat that prioritizes comfort and stability over outright speed. While she may not be a contender in races, she is praised for her solid, seakindly motion and ability to handle various sea states with confidence. The yacht features a skeg-hung rudder, which typically provides good directional stability and protection for the rudder blade.

Accommodations and Layout

The Colvic Countess 33 is renowned for offering significant living space within its 33-foot hull, making it well-suited for family cruising. Given that many hulls were sold for private completion, interior layouts and finishing quality can vary considerably. However, typical arrangements usually accommodate five or six berths.

A common configuration includes an aft cabin, often designated as the owner's en-suite, featuring a double berth and its own head with a toilet and washbasin. Moving forward, a corridor often leads to the main salon and forward cabin. This corridor might incorporate a pilot berth or additional storage. The main salon typically features settees and a table, while the galley and a second head are strategically placed for convenience. Owners often praise the generous interior volumes, which contribute to a comfortable and livable space for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Colvic Countess 33 consistently commend its robust construction and the feeling of security it instills in various conditions 10, 12, Builder Article. The yacht's full-bodied hull translates into a comfortable motion, especially in a seaway, a quality highly valued by cruisers. The spacious interior is frequently highlighted as a major strength, providing ample room for accommodation and storage, which is ideal for family cruising or longer voyages.

While the finish quality can vary due to the kit-boat nature of many Countess 33s, the underlying Colvic molding is generally regarded as strong and durable. A dedicated Colvic Countess Owners Association exists, providing a valuable resource for information, maintenance tips, and a strong community for enthusiasts. Common maintenance considerations, as with any vessel of its age, often revolve around the condition of original fittings, systems, and the need for re-rigging or engine overhauls on older models. Some owners have noted potential access issues for the cutlass bearing due to the skeg-hung rudder design. Despite these typical considerations for older vessels, the Countess 33 remains a popular choice on the used boat market for those seeking a sturdy, no-nonsense cruising platform.