Moody 33 Eclipse Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Moody 33 Eclipse emerged during a period when Moody Yachts, under the guidance of designers like Bill Dixon, was evolving its production cruiser line, building on a legacy of crafting dependable and seaworthy vessels. Bill Dixon, a key naval architect for Moody throughout the 1980s and 1990s, was instrumental in shaping many of their popular aft and center cockpit models known for their volume and comfort. The Eclipse 33, specifically designed by Bill Dixon, represented a notable departure for its size, embracing the deck saloon concept which was then gaining traction in the yachting world. This design philosophy aimed to offer enhanced light and expansive interiors, moving away from more traditional, darker cabin layouts.

During this era, Moody Yachts, built by Marine Projects (Plymouth) Limited, maintained its commitment to solid GRP construction, ensuring the durability and inherent seaworthiness that the brand had become synonymous with since its foundational shift to yacht production in the 1930s. The 33 Eclipse was offered primarily with a fin keel, drawing 4.75 feet, but a bilge keel version was also available, reducing the draft to 3.67 feet for greater access to shallow waters. These variations, sometimes referred to as MkI and MkII, also saw minor differences, such as the support structure for the mast compression post. A total of 253 units of the Moody 33 Eclipse were built, a testament to its popularity during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody 33 Eclipse is characterized as a moderate-weight cruising sailboat designed for comfortable passage-making rather than outright speed. With a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 253.5, she falls into the moderate to heavier cruiser category, suggesting a steady motion in a seaway. Her sail area to displacement ratio of about 13.31 indicates that while capable under sail, she is not intended as a light-air flyer and may benefit from a good breeze to truly come alive. The ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.333 points to a reasonably stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up to a decent amount of wind without excessive heeling, which is a desirable trait for comfortable cruising.

Owners generally report satisfaction with the Eclipse 33's performance, noting its capability under sail, especially when compared to other deck saloon or motor-sailer designs. While she is not considered the fastest boat, her design prioritizes ease of handling and a comfortable motion. The fin keel, combined with a skeg-hung rudder, contributes to a stable and predictable steering, making her a manageable vessel for coastal or offshore cruising. The design is considered reasonably stable and stiff, possessing good righting capability.

Accommodations and Layout

The defining feature of the Moody 33 Eclipse is its spacious and luminous deck saloon, which sets it apart from many conventional yachts of its size and era. The raised saloon configuration provides exceptional all-round views, allowing occupants to enjoy their surroundings from within the comfort of the main cabin. This area typically features ample seating for four to dine comfortably or up to six for social gatherings.

Below deck, the interior boasts a tasteful and modern styling, often finished with quality teak joinery and traditional teak and holly floors, creating a light and airy atmosphere further enhanced by the large deck saloon windows. The typical layout includes a V-berth forward serving as the main double cabin. A well-appointed galley and head are also standard. While the aft cabin offers additional sleeping quarters, owners have noted that the passage leading to it can have limited headroom, though it improves once inside the cabin itself. The overall design ethos was to create a luxurious cruiser, particularly well-suited for two people, with thoughtful storage solutions integrated throughout.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody 33 Eclipse consistently praise its solid construction and the unique advantages offered by its deck saloon design. Many appreciate the boat as a "lovely boat" and "unique in its kind," emphasizing its comfortable and well-built nature. The spacious and bright interior, thanks to the large deck saloon windows, is a frequently highlighted strength, contributing to a pleasant living experience. Owners find the boat to offer an excellent balance of comfortable accommodation and good sailing performance for its class.

However, some common points of attention have been noted. A recurring issue for some owners involves leaks, particularly around original deck fittings and windows, often requiring re-bedding. There have also been instances of issues with the mast compression post support, with some original installations found to use softwood blocks which may require replacement with hardwood for greater durability. Additionally, some owners mention that the original navigation instruments might be dated. While generally capable under sail, particularly the bilge keel version is sometimes described as not being the fastest. Despite these points, the strong community of Moody owners worldwide reflects a shared appreciation for these enduring yachts.