Hunter 33.5 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Hunter 33.5 was in production from 1987 to 1994, emerging during a period when Hunter Marine, under the visionary leadership of Warren Luhrs, was shifting its focus from purely racing boats to more comfortable cruising designs. This era saw the company emphasizing efficient production methods, a philosophy Luhrs carried over from his extensive background in powerboat manufacturing. The design goals for the 33.5 likely centered on combining contemporary aesthetics with a roomy interior and performance, while keeping costs low.

During its production run, the Hunter 33.5 was offered with several keel options, including a standard fin keel, a 'bulb wing' keel, an 'elliptical wing' keel, and a 'Collins tandem keel', providing owners with choices for different sailing needs and draft requirements. Minor changes to the interior layout were also made year-to-year. A similar version of the boat was also marketed as The Moorings 335. The boat features a tall fractional rig with swept-back spreaders, a hallmark of the B&R rig that became a signature feature of Hunter yachts, influenced by Warren Luhrs' own extensive racing experiments. 1, 2, Builder Article

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 33.5 is characterized by a design that balances cruising comfort with respectable sailing dynamics. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.16, the boat demonstrates good potential for performance in light to moderate air, making it responsive in varied conditions. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 40.7% indicates a relatively stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to more wind and offering a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 249.8 places the Hunter 33.5 firmly in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, suggesting a solid build that handles well for its size.

Owners frequently describe the Hunter 33.5 as a great day sailor and a dependable cruise boat, capable of handling significant squalls. While generally praised for its comfortable and dependable nature, some owners note that the fractional rig and swept-back spreaders can restrict its pointing ability when sailing close-hauled. However, the boat is generally considered to hold its own against similar vessels in friendly competition. The design tends towards a mainsail-driven plan with smaller, easier-to-trim jibs, contributing to its ease of handling.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Hunter 33.5 is well-regarded for its spacious and thoughtfully arranged interior, designed to comfortably accommodate four people. With a maximum headroom of 6.33 feet, the cabin feels open and inviting. The typical interior layout includes a dinette positioned to starboard, a split head and sink arrangement located forward, and a generously sized double berth tucked under the cockpit, often referred to as an aft cabin.

Hunter's design philosophy emphasized creating user-friendly layouts with spacious accommodations, a characteristic evident in the 33.5. While specific material finishes can vary based on year and owner modifications, the general impression from owners is that the design is well-thought-out, providing practical living spaces for coastal cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 33.5 frequently praise its fundamental qualities, often describing it as an inexpensive, easy-to-maintain, and well-built boat. Many express satisfaction, calling it a "fantastic boat" and stating they would make the purchase again. The boat is consistently lauded for its dependability and comfort, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable vessel for protected waters and coastal adventures.

However, common maintenance issues and design characteristics noted by owners include potential blistering or "boat pox" on the hull. A recurring concern involves the wooden compression post, which has been known to rot due to leaks from the wiring race beneath the mast. Owners also report issues with rusted iron keels, which may require sandblasting and resealing, and original deck fittings that can develop leaks, especially if a below-deck furler is present. Hoses are also noted as a typical problem area requiring attention. Despite these common issues, the overall sentiment among the owner community remains positive, highlighting the enduring appeal and value of the Hunter 33.5.