Laguna 33 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Laguna 33 commenced in 1986, reflecting Laguna Yachts' established ethos of producing practical and accessible fiberglass sailboats, 1]. The builder, founded by Bill Downing, was known for its focus on comfortable family cruisers rather than high-performance racers, employing solid, albeit straightforward, construction techniques. W. Shad Turner, a consistent designer for Laguna Yachts across its various iterations, was responsible for the Laguna 33's lines. His designs emphasized stability and ease of handling, characteristics well-suited for a broad range of sailors. The Laguna 33 itself was developed from the Laguna 30, incorporating an extended reverse transom, a feature that likely enhanced its waterline length and potentially improved its sailing characteristics. Following the cessation of Laguna Yachts' production around 1986, the legacy of these designs, including the Laguna 33, was carried forward by Classic Yachts of Chanute, Kansas, with the Laguna 33 likely influencing the later Classic 33.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Laguna 33 is configured as a masthead sloop with a fin keel and spade rudder, designed for a balanced blend of cruising comfort and responsive handling. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 16.21, the Laguna 33 suggests moderate light-air performance, capable of moving well in average conditions without being overly sensitive to changes in wind. Its ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 0.318 indicates a solid level of initial stability, allowing it to stand up to a reasonable breeze, though perhaps not as stiff as some dedicated offshore designs. The displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of roughly 205.86 places the Laguna 33 firmly in the category of a light-to-moderate displacement cruiser, suggesting a boat that offers a good balance between speed and comfort through the water. Its calculated hull speed is 7.03 knots. Overall, the Laguna 33 is considered a mid-sized cruiser that combines good sailing performance with its comfortable accommodations.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the interior finish and materials for the Laguna 33 can vary, the design prioritized comfortable living spaces for extended cruising. The interior layout is noted to be similar to that of the Laguna 30, designed to accommodate up to seven people. This typically includes a double V-berth forward in the bow cabin, providing a primary sleeping area. The main salon often features an U-shaped dinette, which can be converted into additional berths, alongside other common cruiser amenities. The vessel is equipped with a 40-gallon water capacity and powered by a 23 HP Universal-Atomic diesel engine, providing reliable auxiliary power.