Endeavour 33 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Endeavour 33's production run, spanning from 1983 to 1986, marked a significant chapter in the history of Endeavour Yacht Corporation. Founded in 1974 by John Brooks and Rob Valdes, Endeavour initially gained a reputation for building sturdy, straightforward cruising boats, particularly suited for shallow waters, featuring moderate hulls and shoal drafts. However, the 1980s brought increasing demand for more performance-oriented designs and updated construction methods, driven in part by the burgeoning charter market.

In response to this trend, Endeavour commissioned renowned naval architects for new models. Bruce Kelley, known for designing US and world champion sailboats, was tasked with creating the Endeavour 33 and 35, aiming for a "fresh, really new design." This collaboration signaled Endeavour's deliberate push towards improving sailing characteristics beyond their earlier, more moderate designs. While earlier Endeavour boats utilized plywood for coring, newer models like the Endeavour 33 incorporated Klegecell closed-cell polyvinyl foam coring and featured a "multi-axial steel reinforced 'force grid' bonded to the hull for stiffness," indicating a commitment to evolving build quality and structural integrity. Approximately 220 hulls of the Endeavour 33 were produced, classifying it as part of the second generation of Endeavour designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Endeavour 33 is designed as a masthead sloop with a reported sail area of 539 square feet. With a displacement of 11,350 pounds and a waterline length of 27.5 feet, its displacement-to-length ratio calculates to approximately 244. This places the Endeavour 33 in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, suggesting a balance between light-air performance and offshore comfort.

The boat's sail area to displacement ratio, around 17.12, indicates a decent ability to perform in various wind conditions, capable of moving well in lighter breezes. A ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 40.5% highlights its substantial ballast of 4,600 pounds, primarily lead. This high ratio contributes significantly to the Endeavour 33's stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to a good amount of wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Equipped with a fin keel and a spade rudder, the Endeavour 33 offers good maneuverability and responsiveness. Owners have generally reported that the boat is easy to sail and provides good performance across different points of sail. While fin keels typically offer less directional stability than full keels, they contribute to better upwind performance and easier handling in tight quarters.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the Endeavour 33 follows a typical design for a cruising sailboat of its size. Forward, a V-berth provides sleeping accommodations. Aft of the V-berth, the head compartment is located to port, separated from the main salon by wet and dry lockers to starboard. The main salon typically features a fold-down table, a common Endeavour influence. While specific details on the quality of finish and materials would require in-person inspection or more detailed reviews, Endeavour yachts from this era were generally known for robust, practical interiors suitable for cruising. Ventilation and storage would typically be provided by overhead hatches, opening ports, and various lockers and drawers throughout the cabin.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Endeavour 33 generally praise its ease of handling and good all-around sailing performance. The robust construction, a hallmark of Endeavour Yacht Corporation, is often appreciated, providing a sense of security and durability. The design, incorporating some standard Endeavour influences like the fold-down salon table, contributes to a functional and comfortable interior.

However, some common issues have been noted by Endeavour owners from this period. A recurring concern mentioned in owner forums is the potential for rust at the mast base, specifically involving an iron I-beam support structure. This issue may require remediation, such as cutting out and replacing the affected area. Like many older vessels, original deck fittings can develop leaks over time, often necessitating re-bedding. While one owner mentioned a poorly designed head setup, which made it difficult to use, overall, the Endeavour 33 is often considered a good value among used boats in its size range. The active online community, such as the Endeavour Owners Group and forums on sites like SailboatData.com, serves as a valuable resource for current and prospective owners, offering shared experiences and advice on maintenance and upgrades.