Sigma 33 Ood Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sigma 33 Ood began its production run in 1979, continuing through 1991, with its inception in 1978. Designer David Thomas’s vision was to create a 35-foot class yacht to compete for acceptance at the Royal Ocean Racing Club's 1978 Offshore One-design Conference, a goal that ultimately led to the slightly smaller, yet immensely successful, Sigma 33. Thomas was known for his ability to design boats that resonated with sailors and were desirable to own. During this era, Northshore Yachts, operating initially as Fairways Marine, was committed to building robust and adaptable GRP cruising vessels.

The "One Design" concept was central to the Sigma 33 Ood, ensuring equitable competition among owners. Over 400 Sigma 33s of all versions were built, with approximately 364 being the original Ood model. A notable variation, the Sigma 33C, featured a shorter masthead rig and a shallower draft of 4.83 feet, with around 44 units produced, offering a cruising-oriented alternative. Some versions also saw alterations to their interior joinery. While Northshore later became synonymous with its innovative swing-keel Southerly range, the Sigma 33 Ood retained a traditional fin keel, distinguishing it from the builder's later signature designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 32 feet and a waterline length of 26.25 feet, the Sigma 33 Ood was engineered for a spirited sailing experience. The design features a deep fin keel and a spade rudder, contributing to its responsive handling. Its sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 16.73, suggests a boat with reasonably good sailing performance, capable of moving well in a variety of wind conditions, though perhaps not an extreme light-air flyer. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.377 indicates a good level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent breeze without excessive heeling. Furthermore, a displacement-to-length ratio of around 226.6 places the Sigma 33 Ood in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser-racer, indicating a solid, capable vessel designed for offshore passages and lively club racing. The boat boasts a theoretical hull speed of 6.87 knots.

Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Sigma 33 Ood as an excellent boat that is both fun and easy to sail. Described as a "racing thoroughbred," it is also increasingly accepted as a capable cruising boat, balancing performance with the demands of comfortable passage making. Its one-design heritage ensures fair competition on the racecourse, while its balanced hull form contributes to its stable and predictable behavior in varying sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Sigma 33 Ood's primary focus was performance, its interior was designed to provide comfortable and functional accommodations for cruising. The layout typically features a functional cabin area with amenities suitable for weekends and extended trips. The interior generally includes a compact galley equipped with a stove and sink, providing essential facilities for meal preparation. The overall arrangement is designed to maximize the available space within its 10.5-foot beam, offering a comfortable salon area, sleeping berths forward (often a V-berth), and potentially quarter berths aft. Although specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior is generally regarded as comfortable enough for its class, reflecting the era's design priorities for practical living spaces at sea. The finish quality is typically robust, with a blend of fiberglass surfaces and wood trim, characteristic of well-built GRP yachts of the late 20th century.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sigma 33 Ood consistently laud its solid construction and the enjoyable sailing experience it offers, highlighting its versatility as both a competitive racer and a comfortable cruiser. Many appreciate its balanced handling and the lively yet predictable motion in a seaway. The strong one-design class also fosters a vibrant community and ensures fair racing.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Sigma 33 Ood can present some common maintenance considerations. Recurring issues noted by owners include the potential for softening in balsa-cored decks, particularly around deck fittings, which may require re-bedding or repair. Rust on the iron keel is another frequently mentioned maintenance item, often requiring diligent attention to prevent corrosion. Some early models have also shown a tendency for "dishing" at the mast foot, a point for potential buyers to inspect. Despite these common age-related concerns, the enduring appeal and active owner community underscore the Sigma 33 Ood's status as a well-regarded and rewarding sailboat.