Gib'sea 334 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gib'sea 334 had a relatively short but impactful production run from 1993 to 1996. Its creation falls within a period where Gibert Marine, founded by Olivier Gibert, was celebrated for its focus on comfortable, spacious, and practical cruising yachts, which were particularly popular in the robust charter trade of the 1980s. The company's collaboration with prominent naval architects like Joubert and Nivelt contributed significantly to the distinct character of Gib'sea vessels. The 334, designed by Joubert and Nivelt, reflects a philosophy aimed at balancing spirited sailing with generous interior volume.

A notable point in the Gib'sea 334's history is that its final year of production coincided with the acquisition of Gibert Marine by Dufour Yachts in 1996. While the Gib'sea brand continued under Dufour, the 334 represents one of the last models produced entirely under the original Gibert Marine stewardship. Designed primarily with a fin keel for optimal performance, a significant variation offered was a full keel shoal draft version, providing flexibility for shallower cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gib'sea 334, with a length overall of 32 feet and a waterline length of 27.08 feet, exhibits characteristics of a capable performance cruiser. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 21.7 suggests strong performance in lighter winds, allowing it to maintain good speed even when the breeze is modest. With a displacement of 9,590 pounds and a ballast of 2,646 pounds, the ballast to displacement ratio stands at roughly 0.276. While this might indicate a tendency to heel more readily than heavier, stiffer boats, it is generally described as a stable and stiff vessel, capable of standing up to a reasonable amount of wind. The displacement to length ratio of around 215 indicates a moderate weight boat, leaning towards the lighter side of traditional cruisers, which contributes to its "high performer" designation.

Equipped with a fin keel and a spade rudder, the Gib'sea 334 is praised for its "splendid manoeuvrability," making it agile under sail and power. This configuration, while offering excellent responsiveness, means it may have less directional stability compared to boats with longer keels. Owners have noted its good handling characteristics, making it an enjoyable boat for both experienced sailors and those new to cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its emphasis on sailing performance, the Gib'sea 334 is remarkably generous in its interior volume, being described as "more spacy than 79% of all other designs" in its class. This translates into a comfortable and well-appointed living space below decks, which was a hallmark of Gib'sea's design philosophy. While specific maximum headroom is not provided in all specifications, the overall design prioritizes liveability.

Typical layouts for the Gib'sea 334 include either two or three cabins, complemented by a single head with a shower. The interior usually features a spacious salon, a functional galley, and a dedicated navigation station. Online reviews and listings often highlight the good condition of the joinery and upholstery, suggesting a durable and pleasing finish. Features such as interior cushions in the salon, a heater, and a fridge are commonly found, enhancing comfort for extended cruising. The spacious cockpit also contributes to the overall comfort and enjoyment of the vessel, both at anchor and under sail.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gib'sea 334 frequently praise its robust fiberglass construction and its suitability for comfortable cruising. Many boats in the used market, particularly those offered by original owners, are noted for their meticulous maintenance, with joinery and upholstery often remaining in very good condition, a testament to the build quality and owner care. The boat's popularity in charter fleets further underscores its reputation for durability and user-friendliness. Its spacious interior is a consistent positive, offering more room than many comparable sailboats. The fin keel provides excellent maneuverability, which is a strength, although some owners might note its comparatively lesser directional stability against a long keel.