King's Cruiser 33 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the King's Cruiser 33 commenced in 1972 and continued until 1978, with approximately 150 units launched during this period. The design, a product of Pelle Pettersson's influential hand, reflects the "robust, beautiful yet fast" ethos that defined many IOR-influenced designs of the era. Pettersson, a prominent figure in yachting design, aimed to create a vessel that offered both spirited sailing performance and reliable construction.

The builder, Fiskars, though now primarily known for its consumer goods, had a significant, albeit concluded, chapter in its history dedicated to boat building. During the King's Cruiser 33's production, Fiskars, an ancient ironworks, brought its long-standing tradition of durable craftsmanship to the marine industry, ensuring the King's Cruiser 33 was a "strong boat" built to last. While the builder's article highlights Fiskars' later success with aluminum powerboats under the Buster brand, their earlier engagement with sailboat construction, including the King's Cruiser 33, demonstrated a commitment to quality in various marine segments. No significant variations such as MkI or MkII models are widely documented, suggesting a consistent design throughout its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The King's Cruiser 33 exhibits sailing characteristics indicative of a stable and capable cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.8, she is designed for moderate performance, favoring solid progress over extreme light-air speed. Her substantial Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 0.465 contributes significantly to her stiffness and stability, enabling her to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio is a key indicator of a boat's ability to carry sail and resist heeling, making her a reassuring vessel in varying conditions.

Further emphasizing her robust cruising credentials, the Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 306 places the King's Cruiser 33 firmly in the heavy displacement category. This characteristic translates to a solid feel underfoot and a comfortable ride, particularly in choppy waters, making her a favored choice among owners for sailing. Owners often describe the King's Cruiser 33 as "robust, beautiful yet fast," suggesting a balanced design that combines strength with respectable performance for her class. Her hull speed is calculated at 6.56 knots, and when equipped with an inboard Volvo Penta MD2 diesel, a typical original engine, she can achieve a speed of around 6.0 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom figures are not consistently available, the King's Cruiser 33 is noted for an interior that, despite being a product of the 1970s, feels "classy and still modern" to many. The design makes extensive use of wooden surfaces, contributing to a warm and traditional aesthetic. Owners frequently praise the boat for its impressive storage capacity, noting that it is "huge in terms of stowing stuff."

Typical layouts for a vessel of this size and era would include a forward V-berth, a head compartment, a salon with opposing settees (often converting to berths), and a galley area, possibly with a quarter berth aft. Reviews suggest the "internal layout is very modern concerning her age," implying a thoughtful and efficient use of space that maximizes comfort and functionality for cruising. While detailed diagrams require specific search, the consistent positive remarks on the interior's class, modernity, and ample stowage point to a well-appointed and practical living space for her time.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the King's Cruiser 33 consistently commend the boat for its solid construction and overall reliability. The robust build quality instilled by Fiskars is a recurring point of praise, with many noting the boat's ability to handle various sailing conditions competently. The generous stowage capacity is also a significant advantage, particularly for those undertaking longer cruises, making the boat practical for extended periods aboard. The classic, yet functional, interior styling with its extensive use of wood is another frequently appreciated aspect, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

However, like many vessels of her age, some common maintenance points have been identified. A recurring issue noted by owners involves the mast aperture in the cabin roof, which, over decades, can wear out due to mast-induced stresses, potentially leading to persistent leaks. This suggests that potential owners should inspect this area carefully and be prepared for possible re-bedding or repair work. Despite such age-related considerations, the general consensus among owners is that the King's Cruiser 33 is a well-built and capable sailboat that, with proper maintenance, continues to provide a rewarding ownership experience.