Morgan Out Island 33 MS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Morgan Out Island 33 MS entered production in 1980, embodying the design philosophy that came to define Morgan Yachts in its later years. While Charles Morgan, the company's founder, initially gained acclaim for performance-oriented racer-cruisers, the immense success of the Out Island series, beginning in 1970, marked a pragmatic pivot towards boats emphasizing interior volume and a "no-frills" robustness. This particular 33-foot model, designated "MS" for "Motor Sailor," further cemented this direction, indicating a design where engine-powered cruising could be as significant as sailing. This was a period after Charles Morgan's direct involvement with the company had concluded in 1972, with Morgan Yachts continuing to build on his established design principles under new corporate entities before its acquisition by Catalina Yachts in 1984. The Out Island 33 MS features a solid fiberglass hull and a long keel, contributing to its stable and predictable nature. While specific factory variations of the 33 MS are not widely documented, the Out Island line was known for its adaptable interiors, and individual boats often feature owner-customized layouts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

True to its motor-sailer designation and the broader Out Island philosophy, the Morgan Out Island 33 MS prioritizes stability and comfort over dazzling speed. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 12.34 suggests that she is not a sprightly performer in light winds, and will likely require engine assistance to maintain pace in such conditions. This characteristic aligns with the design's focus on comfortable cruising rather than high-performance sailing.

The boat's Ballast to Displacement ratio of 34.48% (0.3448) indicates a respectable degree of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a good breeze without excessive heeling. Combined with a long keel, this contributes to the boat's excellent stability and good righting capability. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of 311.26 clearly places her in the category of heavier, more traditional cruisers. With a hull speed of 7.03 knots, the Out Island 33 MS is best suited as a coastal cruiser, offering a comfortable motion in a seaway and predictable tracking, albeit with a slower turning radius typical of full-keel designs.

Accommodations and Layout

The Morgan Out Island 33 MS is widely recognized for its remarkably spacious interior for a boat of its length. Owners often praise its generous headroom, reportedly offering 6 feet 4 inches throughout the cabin, which significantly enhances liveability. While exact factory layouts could vary, a typical arrangement includes a large V-berth forward, providing comfortable sleeping quarters, accompanied by ample lockers for storage. A good-sized head is commonly located to starboard, aft of the V-berth.

The main cabin typically features a salon area, often with a skylight in the galley, contributing to a bright and airy interior. The design emphasizes practical living spaces, characteristic of the Out Island series. The cockpit is also noted to be of a good size, offering a comfortable space for helming and relaxation, often complemented by a dodger and bimini for protection from the elements. The interior finish, typical of boats from this era, likely combines fiberglass liners with wood trim, providing a durable yet classic aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Morgan Out Island 33 MS consistently commend its expansive interior, often describing it as one of the most spacious 33-foot sailboats available. This characteristic makes it a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable coastal cruiser or even a liveaboard platform. The robust, long-keel hull design is frequently praised for its stability and predictable handling in various sea states, reinforcing its reputation as a sturdy vessel suitable for extended voyages.

However, common considerations for owners of these classic boats often revolve around engine maintenance, as the original engines may present issues requiring attention. While generally regarded as durable, as with any older boat, ongoing maintenance and potential refits are expected. Despite these common factors associated with older vessels, the Morgan Out Island 33 MS continues to be a sought-after model in the used boat market, appreciated for its affordability and comfortable cruising capabilities.