Gib'sea 33-2 Information, Review, Specs

The Gib'sea 33-2 began its production run in the year 2000, following Dufour Yachts' acquisition of Gibert Marine in 1996. During this period, Dufour reintroduced the Gib'sea line, continuing the brand's established reputation for producing comfortable, spacious, and practical cruising yachts. The design philosophy, helmed by J&J Design and Olivier Poncin, aimed to create a voluminous cruiser that prioritized livability and ease of handling for the cruising sailor, rather than outright racing performance. This focus aligned with Gibert Marine's historical emphasis on robust construction and user-friendly characteristics that made its vessels popular in the charter trade throughout the 1980s. While the production of new Gib'sea models eventually ceased in 2009, the 33-2 represents a contemporary design from the later era of the brand, often characterized by a distinctive "dolphin nose" bow. The hull construction typically featured fiberglass, sometimes reinforced with Kevlar or aramid, for solid construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gib'sea 33-2 is categorized as a masthead sloop with a fin keel and bulb, paired with a spade rudder, designed for a balance of performance and stability. Her reported sail area to displacement ratio of 17.05 suggests a reasonably good performer, capable of making decent progress in moderate conditions, though perhaps not excelling in very light airs. With a ballast to displacement ratio of 0.26, the vessel leans towards a more moderate stiffness, which some owners have described as being "tender" in stronger winds, meaning she might heel more readily. However, this characteristic often contributes to a more comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of 205.26 positions her as a moderately weighted cruiser, consistent with modern designs that prioritize longer waterlines for improved speed and interior volume without excessive heft. Overall, the Gib'sea 33-2 is noted for its comfort and ease of maneuver, making it a suitable choice for family cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gib'sea 33-2 is designed with a strong emphasis on comfort and volume, a hallmark of the Gib'sea brand, particularly those produced under Dufour. While specific headroom figures are not always detailed, the layout typically offers a two-cabin, single-head configuration, although some sources mention a three-cabin arrangement, accommodating up to eight people in total including the salon. Reviewers often describe the interior as simple, open, and voluminous, making the most of the boat's beam. The salon usually features comfortable seating and a dining area, with the galley well-appointed for cruising needs. The joinery is generally of good quality, often made in-house, contributing to a pleasant, functional living space. Storage solutions are integrated throughout, catering to the needs of cruisers for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gib'sea 33-2 consistently praise its excellent blend of sailing ability and comfortable accommodation, highlighting its suitability as a well-regarded cruising boat. Many appreciate the vessel's robust construction and practical layout, which has contributed to its enduring presence in the second-hand market and former popularity in charter fleets. The ease of maneuverability is also frequently cited as a positive attribute, contributing to a relaxed sailing experience. However, some owners have noted that the boat can be "very tender," particularly when pushed in stronger winds, suggesting a need for mindful sail trim to maintain comfort. Despite this, the Gib'sea 33-2 is often described as a lovingly maintained and enjoyed yacht by its owners, affirming its status as a reliable and accessible cruising platform.