Hunter 33 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the original Hunter 33 in 1977 marked a significant step for Hunter Marine, a company founded by Warren Luhrs in 1973. Luhrs' background in efficient powerboat manufacturing heavily influenced Hunter's ethos, aiming to apply production line efficiencies to sailboat construction to make sailing more attainable for a broader audience. The Hunter 33, designed by John Cherubini, aligned with this philosophy, building on the success of earlier models like the Hunter 25. While Hunter would later shift towards more comfortable cruising designs in the early 1980s and introduce their signature B&R rig on subsequent models, the 1977 Hunter 33 represents an earlier era of their design evolution, featuring a masthead sloop rig and a fin keel. It is important to note that the "Hunter 33" designation has been used for several distinct models throughout Hunter's production history, with later designs by Glenn Henderson emerging in 2004 (Hunter 33-2) and 2012 (Marlow-Hunter 33 or E33), each with different hull shapes and rig configurations. The original 1977 Cherubini-designed Hunter 33 is distinct from these later iterations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 33, with its moderate displacement of 10,600 pounds and a waterline length of 27.08 feet, exhibits characteristics well-suited for a cruising sailboat. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.5 suggests a boat with respectable performance in a range of wind conditions, capable of moving well in lighter air without being overly sensitive in heavy breezes. A ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.386 indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its canvas effectively.

Anecdotal reports from owners generally describe the Hunter 33 as a responsive boat under sail. While she may feel initially tender, she tends to stiffen up notably around 10 to 15 degrees of heel, providing a stable platform as the wind increases. Owners have praised her ability to point well to weather. With a calculated hull speed of just under 7 knots, the Hunter 33 is capable of efficient passage making. While not designed as a dedicated offshore racer, she is considered comfortable for coastal cruising and capable of handling conditions up to 25 knots of wind and 6-foot seas, though comfort may decrease in more extreme conditions. Some observations note that the original engine might be considered small for maneuvering in larger bodies of water, while others find the engine to be fuel-efficient and capable of achieving hull speed.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hunter 33 is thoughtfully laid out to maximize usable space, making it a comfortable vessel for a couple or a small family. The design typically features two private staterooms, a generous galley, and a comfortable saloon area. The forward V-berth offers private sleeping quarters, while an aft cabin, often accessed from the starboard side, provides another dedicated sleeping area.

The saloon serves as the primary living space, providing seating and a dining area. The galley is generally large for a boat of this size, offering ample space for food preparation and storage, essential for extended trips. Details gleaned from owner experiences suggest a general impression of impressive fit and finish for a production boat of its era, with consideration given to the quality of materials used. While specific headroom figures for this model are not consistently available, the design aimed for comfortable living below decks. Owners have even transformed these vessels into self-sufficient liveaboards, testament to their functional layout and adequate storage capacity.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 33 frequently commend its solid construction and responsive sailing characteristics. Many appreciate its ability to point well and provide a comfortable motion, especially once settled into a heel. The boat's suitability for coastal cruising and weekend trips is a recurring positive theme, with owners finding it reliable and enjoyable for these purposes. The overall quality of the interior fit and finish has also been highlighted as a strength.

However, some common points raised by owners include specific issues related to the original equipment or potential for upgrades. For instance, some owners have noted that the original engine may feel underpowered in certain conditions, while others report a smooth and efficient performance. A recurring issue mentioned in various forums is the potential for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, often requiring re-bedding. While specific autopilot "zigzagging" issues were reported by one owner, this may be an isolated incident or related to the specific autopilot model installed. Overall, the Hunter 33 is generally regarded as a well-built and capable cruiser, particularly appealing to those seeking a comfortable and manageable sailboat for coastal adventures.