Hunter 33-2 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Hunter 33-2 commenced production in 2004, continuing the builder's legacy of innovative and accessible sailboat designs. Hunter Marine, under the leadership of Warren Luhrs, consistently applied production line efficiencies honed in powerboat manufacturing to their sailboat lines, aiming to make sailing more enjoyable and ownership more accessible. The company’s design philosophy emphasized comfortable family cruisers over high-performance racers, a trend evident in the 33-2. Hunter became renowned for features like the distinctive B&R rig, which employs swept-back spreaders without a backstay, allowing for larger mainsails and simplified sail handling, as well as the integrated cockpit arch for mainsheet placement and added structural integrity.

The 33-2 was offered with variations to suit different sailing needs. While the primary specifications refer to a shoal draft keel and furling mast configuration, a deep draft keel option (5.5 ft) and a standard rig with a slightly lower mast height and larger sail area were also available. In 2012, Hunter introduced an updated version, also referred to as the E33. This evolution retained the same hull and rig, but featured a larger cockpit, a revised deck layout, and the addition of a swim platform, alongside a slightly increased displacement of 12,400 lbs. Production of this series continued until 2016 under the Marlow-Hunter brand.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 33-2 is designed to deliver a balanced and enjoyable sailing experience. With a calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.17, she exhibits moderate performance characteristics, indicating a comfortable cruising speed rather than outright racing prowess. The ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.325, suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing for a comfortable motion in a seaway while still heeling under pressure. Her displacement to length ratio of approximately 193.16 places her in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for a cruiser of her size, suggesting a boat that can be responsive and relatively agile.

Owners frequently describe the Hunter 33-2 as a "blast to sail" and "very responsive under sail." Her design, focused on ease of handling and comfort, contributes to a stable and predictable motion, making her suitable for a wide range of sailing conditions and skill levels.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hunter 33-2 is designed to maximize living space, reflecting Hunter's emphasis on comfort and usability. The layout typically features two private staterooms, providing good privacy for a boat of this size. The forward cabin often includes a V-berth, while an aft cabin, usually accessed from the starboard side, offers another private sleeping area.

The main saloon is spacious and comfortable, often featuring a convertible dinette and seating arrangements that contribute to the boat's "smart and effective layouts." The galley is typically described as large, equipped with essential amenities such as a sink, stove, and microwave, facilitating meal preparation during cruises. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design maximizes interior volume, contributing to a feeling of openness below deck. Hunter is known for integrating interior components in a modular fashion, which are then securely glassed to the hull, contributing to a robust finish.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally praise the Hunter 33-2 for its lively sailing characteristics and comfortable cruising capabilities. Many consider it a "nice comfortable middle range coastal boat" that is fun and responsive under sail. Its ease of sailing and user-friendly design are frequently highlighted as significant strengths.

However, like any vessel, some common issues have been noted by owners. A recurring observation involves the ST4000 autopilot, with some owners reporting that the boat "zigzags slightly" while operating it. Additionally, there have been discussions among owners regarding potential overheating issues with the upgraded (29hp) Yanmar engine, an optional powerplant for the model. Some forum discussions also hint at adhesive issues, possibly related to hull/liner connections, a topic frequently discussed in general boat forums. These points, while noted, generally do not detract from the overall positive sentiment regarding the Hunter 33-2 as a capable and enjoyable cruising sailboat.