Islander 33 Information, Review, Specs

The Islander 33 emerged from the California-based Islander Yachts, a company with roots tracing back to Joseph McGlasson's successful wooden boat designs and their subsequent transition to fiberglass construction in the early 1960s. Launched in 1964, the Islander 33 was produced through 1971, placing it firmly within the period when Islander Yachts was known for its commitment to durable construction and comfortable cruising. As a raised deck version of the popular Islander 32, the 33 capitalized on an efficient hull form while maximizing interior space. Joseph McGlasson, the designer, aimed for an "average hull design" but notably achieved a more spacious interior compared to many contemporary designs in its class. Islander Yachts, during this time, often produced fiberglass hulls that subtly retained the visual cues of wooden planking, a testament to their origins and a unique aesthetic identifier for their early models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Islander 33 is configured as a masthead sloop, a rig known for its simplicity and ease of handling. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.40, the Islander 33 presents itself as a moderate performer, capable of making good progress in a range of conditions without being overtly focused on light-air speed. Its ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.33, suggests a degree of tenderness, indicating that sailors might consider reefing earlier in higher winds to maintain optimal comfort and control. However, its displacement to length ratio of approximately 323 places it in the category of heavier, more traditional cruisers. This heavier displacement typically translates to a more comfortable motion in a seaway, making the Islander 33 a stable platform well-suited for coastal voyages and potentially longer passages. Owners have generally found the Islander 33 to be "structurally good" for its vintage, with anecdotal reports of the boat being singlehanded successfully without major issues.

Accommodations and Layout

The defining characteristic of the Islander 33's interior is its "flush deck," which significantly contributes to a feeling of openness and maximizes cabin volume below. This design choice allowed for an interior that was reportedly more spacious than 50% of other designs of its time. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the flush deck design generally implies a more consistent and usable standing height throughout the main cabin. Typical layouts for a vessel of this size and era would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that often convert to berths, a galley, and an enclosed head. Owners frequently appreciate the generous cabin room this design provides. Interior finishes in Islander yachts of this vintage often featured a blend of fiberglass and wood trim, offering a classic nautical aesthetic. However, some older models might present challenges such as original vinyl headliners developing mildew over time, suggesting that potential owners might consider updates to these systems.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Islander 33 generally commend the vessel for its solid construction, a hallmark of Islander Yachts during its production years. The boats are often described as structurally sound for their age, suggesting a robust build quality that has stood the test of time. The ample cabin room afforded by the flush deck design is a consistent positive, making the boat comfortable for cruising and extended stays aboard. However, as with many vessels of this vintage, a common theme among owner discussions is the need for upgrades to original rigging and other onboard systems. Some owners have also noted the potential for mildew issues with original interior headliners, which may require attention. Despite these common considerations for older boats, the Islander 33 maintains a reputation as a reliable and capable cruiser, appreciated for its comfortable motion and generous interior space.