Northshore 33 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Northshore 33 entered production in 1983, continuing through 1996. It was designed by Hank Kaufman, an Australian naval architect, with the specific goal of creating a 33-footer suitable for both club racing and family cruising. During this era, Northshore Yachts, which originated as Fairways Marine in the early 1970s, was committed to building robust and adaptable yachts from GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic). While the builder gained significant renown for its innovative Southerly range featuring swing keel technology, the Northshore 33, with its fixed fin keel, showcased their broader capabilities in producing performance-oriented cruisers with a high standard of finish. The construction of the Northshore 33 is notable for its simplicity and strength, featuring a hull, deck, headliner, and a one-piece interior furniture moulding, all made from fibreglass.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Northshore 33 is engineered for impressive sailing performance, exhibiting characteristics often praised by owners. With a reported sail area of 537 square feet and a displacement of 9,000 pounds, it boasts a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 19.7. This healthy ratio suggests the boat is responsive and capable of performing well in lighter air conditions. Her fin keel, with 3,807 pounds of cast iron ballast, contributes to a ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 42.3%. This relatively high ratio indicates a stiff and stable boat, designed to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway.

The vessel's displacement-to-length ratio, calculated at approximately 164.7 based on her 29.00-foot waterline, positions her as a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser-racer. This aligns with descriptions of the Northshore 33 as being "fast, easy sailing" and "fun to sail". Her fractional sloop rig further contributes to ease of handling, particularly for single-handed or shorthanded sailing. Owners generally describe the boat as seakindly and well-balanced. One common characteristic noted by owners is the tendency for prop walk under power.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance-oriented design, the Northshore 33 is celebrated for its surprisingly generous and "eminently livable" interior. The layout is characterized by an open-plan design that feels much larger than its 33-foot length might suggest, offering good headroom (6.33 feet) throughout the cabin.

Typically, the forward cabin features a V-berth or twin single bunks. The main salon is spacious, highlighted by a large dinette area with a folding table, often featuring refurbished upholstery in existing boats. The interior design effectively blends clean white finishes with traditional timber trims, creating a classic yet bright ambiance. While specific details on galley and head configurations can vary with individual boats, owners frequently praise the overall layout for its comfort and practicality, making it well-suited for family cruising. The cockpit is also noted as being large, suitable for both sailing and outdoor entertaining.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Northshore 33 for its solid construction and versatile capabilities as a cruiser-racer. They frequently praise its comfortable motion offshore and its enjoyable sailing performance, making it a popular choice for those seeking a yacht capable of both leisurely cruising and competitive club racing. The active and loyal community of owners further underscores the enduring appeal of these Australian-built yachts.

While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted common minor issues, such as prop walk under engine power. The original Volvo 2002 18HP engine is a common fitment, and while generally reliable, its age means owners should anticipate standard maintenance considerations for older machinery. Overall, the consensus among owners is that the Northshore 33 offers a rewarding sailing experience and a comfortable platform for extended periods aboard.