Fifty 33 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Kirie Fifty 33 emerged from a period of significant innovation at the Kirié shipyard. Beginning production in 1978, the boat reflects Kirié's pioneering adoption of fiberglass construction in the late 1960s, a move that allowed the shipyard to explore innovative designs beyond traditional wooden boats. The "Fifty" range, to which the 33 belongs, was specifically introduced to offer a unique blend of sailing capabilities and spacious living arrangements, appealing to a growing market for motorsailers. Designed by Michel Joubert, a well-regarded name in naval architecture, the Fifty 33's fixed fin keel and masthead sloop rig were central to its design philosophy, aiming for a robust and practical vessel capable of handling various sea conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a motorsailer, the Kirie Fifty 33's design prioritizes comfort and stability, offering a balanced approach to propulsion. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 14.7, the Fifty 33 is considered to be moderately powered under sail, suggesting it performs best in stronger breezes rather than light airs. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.30 indicates a good level of stiffness and stability, contributing to a comfortable motion even in challenging conditions. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 318, firmly places the Fifty 33 in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, emphasizing its solid construction and seakindliness over outright speed. Owners and reviewers often describe the Kirie Fifty 33 as a heavy sailboat that is stable and stiff, possessing good righting capability. Its masthead sloop rig provides simplicity and effective sail area, complementing its sturdy hull form. This combination makes the vessel well-suited for extended coastal and offshore cruising, where stability and comfort are paramount.

Accommodations and Layout

The Kirie Fifty 33 is renowned for its spacious and functional interior, a hallmark of the motorsailer concept. The layout typically accommodates up to five people across two cabins plus the main salon. A key feature of the Fifty 33 is its pilot house, which offers protected twin-station steering, providing comfort and excellent visibility in inclement weather or during long passages. The cockpit is noted for being deep and secure, enhancing safety and comfort on deck. While specific details on headroom are not always available, the overall impression from owners is that of a comfortable and well-appointed living space, reflecting Kirié's reputation for producing robust and practical vessels. The finish quality generally features durable materials, consistent with a boat designed for serious cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kirie Fifty 33 consistently praise its solid construction and comfortable characteristics, particularly highlighting its "very nice interior." The protected wheelhouse and deep cockpit are frequently appreciated for enhancing safety and providing a more comfortable cruising experience. Many owners commend the boat's suitability for extensive cruising, with some even considering it for ambitious voyages like a round-the-world trip. While specific recurring issues are not widely documented, the sentiment among owners points to a well-built and reliable vessel that, with careful maintenance, continues to be a cherished cruiser. The Kirie Fifty 33 retains a strong presence on the used boat market, maintaining a dedicated community of owners who value its unique blend of sailing and motorsailing capabilities.