Southerly 330 Information, Review, Specs

The Southerly 330 began production in 2013, continuing Northshore Yachts' legacy of crafting innovative cruising vessels. Northshore Yachts, known for its commitment to robust, adaptable yachts, particularly through its Southerly range, championed the unique lifting keel technology. This design philosophy allows Southerly yachts, including the 330, to reduce their draft dramatically, enabling navigation in shallow waters and even the ability to "beach" the yacht upright.

The design of the Southerly 330 was a collaborative effort between Stephen Jones Yacht Design and Southerly Design. Stephen Jones is a respected name in naval architecture, known for creating yachts that blend performance with cruising comfort. This collaboration aimed to integrate the established features of the Southerly brand within a hull size suitable for a 10-meter mooring, while also providing ample live-aboard facilities. While the Southerly 32, a predecessor, was a highly sought-after cruiser, the 330 represented an evolution in the line, with production later being restarted by Discovery Yachts Group after Northshore's financial challenges.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Southerly 330 is characterized by its heavy displacement and robust build, making it a stable and stiff vessel well-suited for comfortable cruising. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio exceeding 300, the 330 falls into the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, indicating a solid feel on the water. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 37% contributes to its stability and good righting capability.

The sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) for the Southerly 330 is around 13.89. While this ratio suggests the boat is "underpowered" compared to high-performance racers (which have ratios above 24), it is consistent with its role as a stable cruiser rather than a light-air speed demon. Owners can expect a comfortable motion in a seaway, though its performance in very light winds may be more modest. The fractional sloop rig contributes to ease of handling, even with a minimum crew. A common characteristic of swing keel designs, as noted for the Southerly 32, is that the reduced draft, while offering incredible access to shallow areas, can lead to increased leeway when sailing hard upwind with the keel raised. However, with its keel fully deployed to 7.41 feet, the 330 offers respectable upwind performance for a cruising yacht.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Southerly 330 is designed to offer good live-aboard facilities and comfortable accommodation, capable of sleeping up to six people. While specific headroom details are not provided in the core data, the overall design criteria emphasized providing a comfortable interior. The yacht features a Mediterranean-style cockpit and typically includes two guest cabins.

Based on general Southerly designs, the interior is usually well-appointed, focusing on practical liveability and comfort. Reviews and specifications suggest a layout that maximizes space, likely including a V-berth forward, a main salon area, a galley, and a head. The emphasis on cruising comfort means good storage solutions and adequate ventilation are typically integral to the design. Owners generally appreciate the practical and comfortable interior, designed for extended stays onboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Southerly yachts, including the 330, have fostered a loyal and active owner community worldwide, with many praising the unique versatility offered by the lifting keel, 9, 12]. Owners consistently appreciate the ability to explore secluded anchorages and navigate shallow waters inaccessible to most fixed-keel vessels. The solid construction and comfortable motion, characteristic of the Southerly brand, are frequently highlighted strengths, contributing to its reputation as a reliable cruising platform.

However, some considerations are worth noting for the Southerly line, which may extend to the 330. For instance, issues such as leaks around mast wiring deck glands and jib track anchor points have been mentioned for similar Southerly models like the 32, suggesting these areas might warrant careful inspection. Additionally, general concerns regarding the security and potential corrosion of keel castings under mastic have been observed in surveys of Southerly vessels, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance for the unique swing keel mechanism. Despite these potential maintenance points, the overall sentiment among owners remains positive, valuing the unparalleled freedom and cruising experience that a Southerly yacht provides.