Edel Cat 33 Information, Review, Specs

The Edel Cat 33 was introduced in 1985, emerging from the innovative spirit of Edel, a French builder that pioneered fiberglass yacht construction. The company, founded by Maurice and Pierre Edel, expanded into the multihull market in 1981, with Maurice Edel collaborating with naval architect Sylvestre Langevin to develop new designs. The Edel Cat 33 was a direct result of this partnership, aiming to offer a robust, rustic, and affordable catamaran equipped for semi-offshore cruising. This design philosophy was consistent with Edel's broader mission to provide practical and reliable boats that democratized yacht ownership. Production of the Edel Cat 33 continued for several years, with around 60 units built between 1985 and 1990.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Edel Cat 33 inherently offers a different sailing experience than a monohull, characterized by enhanced stability and spaciousness. With a reported sail area of 645 square feet and a displacement of 7200 pounds, the Edel Cat 33 is considered a light sailboat with high performance potential. Its fractional sloop rig suggests a balance between ease of handling and sail power. The design features a shallow maximum draft of 2.62 feet, which, combined with its twin keels, allows access to shallower anchorages often inaccessible to deeper-drafting monohulls. Owners and reviewers have noted the Edel Cat 33's capabilities as a fast and modern catamaran, reflecting a design that, while unconventional in appearance with its split superstructure, prioritizes functionality for cruising. It is described as a fast cat with small hulls, not bloated, suggesting an emphasis on performance over excessive volume, a design choice by Maurice Edel and Sylvestre Langevin.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the Edel Cat 33 is characterized by its functional and minimalist approach, often described as "rustic." Unlike modern catamarans with expansive, single coachroofs, the Edel Cat 33 features a superstructure split into three distinct volumes, providing a unique internal arrangement. While specific headroom figures are not universally available, the design prioritizes practical living spaces where needed, without unnecessary bulk. The two hulls are utilized for sleeping and other essential accommodations, typical of catamarans of this era, offering good volume for its size. Reviews suggest the interior provides adequate space for its intended purpose as an affordable semi-offshore cruiser, focusing on utility rather than luxury finishes.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Edel Cat 33 generally praise its solid construction and its value as an affordable entry into catamaran ownership. The boat is recognized for being robust and well-equipped for semi-offshore cruising, making it a reliable choice for those looking to explore beyond coastal waters. Its unique design, while perhaps not conventional by today's standards, is appreciated for its practical considerations and sailing performance. Owners have found the Edel Cat 33 to be a capable vessel, with some even embarking on extended voyages. The "fast cat with small hulls" characteristic is often highlighted, suggesting that the boat delivers on its performance promises. As with any vessel of its age, potential owners typically review the condition of original fittings and systems, but the overall sentiment points to a sturdy and well-regarded multihull for its class.