Nauticat 33 Information, Review, Specs

The Nauticat 33's story began in 1967 as the first boat produced by Siltala Yachts, laying the foundation for a company that would become synonymous with robust motorsailers. Designer W. Aarnipalo crafted the 33-foot vessel to be a high-deckhouse sailing yacht, pioneering the use of fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP) for its hull construction. This adoption of fiberglass was a crucial step, moving away from traditional wooden boatbuilding and allowing for more consistent and durable construction, reflecting the builder's ethos of creating seaworthy and livable cruising yachts.

Throughout its extensive production run from 1967 to 1996, with over 1100 units launched, the Nauticat 33 underwent several changes and improvements. Notably, in 1977, a raised aft deck was offered as an option, which became a distinguishing feature on many models. This, along with other modifications during its production, allowed for personalization of the layout, meaning rarely were two boats exactly the same. The success of the Nauticat 33 eventually led to the introduction of an updated model, the Nauticat 331, in 1997, which incorporated modern refinements while retaining the classic charm.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nauticat 33, at 33.17 feet overall with a waterline length of 28.17 feet, is characterized as a heavy displacement motorsailer. This is evident in its high Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 344, suggesting a robust and traditionally built vessel designed for comfort and seaworthiness rather than outright speed. The Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 11.41 indicates that the Nauticat 33 is not intended for blistering light-air performance; instead, its ketch rig with a total sail area of 475 square feet allows for an easily handled combination of sails, proving effective in moderate to heavier conditions.

With a ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.298 and a long keel design, the Nauticat 33 prioritizes stability and a comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway. Owners and reviewers often describe the boat as solid and capable in heavy weather, offering a soft, easy motion to windward. While its motorsailer nature means it may not point as high or be as nimble under sail as a dedicated sailboat, its design ensures a stable and predictable platform. Handling in harbors, especially when single-handed, can be challenging due to its full keel and significant displacement.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Nauticat 33 is renowned for its generous volume and comfortable, well-protected pilothouse, a hallmark of the Nauticat brand. Owners appreciate the spacious interior, which often features panoramic views from the pilothouse. The typical layout includes a guest cabin with a V-berth forward, a main salon, a galley, and an owners' cabin aft. The boat often boasts a significant amount of interior teak, contributing to a classic, warm aesthetic.

With a freshwater tank capacity of around 66 gallons, the Nauticat 33 is equipped for extended periods aboard. The raised aft deck, an option from 1977, provides additional outdoor living space, often customized with benches and chairs. Given the long production run and Nauticat's willingness to personalize layouts, specific interior arrangements can vary widely between individual boats.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nauticat 33 consistently praise its solid construction and robust build quality, emphasizing its capability for comfortable passage-making in diverse conditions. The strong sense of community among Nauticat owners is also a frequently mentioned positive aspect, with active online forums and owner groups providing support and shared experiences. The protected pilothouse is a significant advantage, offering excellent visibility and comfort in all weather, allowing for enjoyable cruising even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Common discussion points among owners include the maintenance of the original teak decks, which, like on many older vessels, can require attention over time, though some surveys report no issues. The motorsailer characteristics mean that while it can sail without power, its performance under sail is optimized for comfortable cruising rather than speed, and handling in tight marina spaces can require practice due to its full keel and displacement. Overall, the Nauticat 33 is deeply loved by its owners for its reliability, comfort, and the security it offers for extended voyages.