Contention 33 (Peterson) Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Contention 33 commenced in 1976, marking a period when Southern Ocean Shipyard was establishing itself as a builder of high-quality, capable offshore yachts. Doug Peterson's design philosophy for the Contention 33 centered on creating a competitive racer within the popular 3/4 Ton series, without sacrificing the practicality and comfort required for cruising. This balance was a hallmark of Peterson's work, which consistently produced yachts that were both fast and well-behaved. During this era, Southern Ocean Shipyard was renowned for its commitment to robust construction, utilizing hand-laid marine-grade fiberglass reinforced polyester, often exceeding stringent Lloyds standards, ensuring exceptional strength and durability for ocean voyaging. Some Contention 33 hulls were even laid up by False Bay Marine in Cape Town, South Africa. Throughout its production, the Contention 33 saw some variations, notably including both a dedicated competition version with a T-shaped cockpit and a more cruiser-oriented version.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contention 33's design ratios underscore its identity as a performance-oriented cruiser-racer. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.71, the boat is well-powered, suggesting a lively performance, particularly in lighter air, allowing it to maintain speed even when the wind is not strong. The high Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.455 indicates significant initial stability, meaning the Contention 33 is stiff and capable of standing up to its sail plan in stronger winds, offering a comfortable and secure motion in a seaway. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 179.3 points to a relatively light vessel for its waterline length of 28.5 feet, contributing to its responsive handling and ability to perform competitively. Owners and reviewers have consistently praised the Contention 33 as a "well thought of fast cruiser racer," known for its solid construction and its ability to gather "a good deal of silverware" in its racing heyday. Equipped with a fin keel and a spade rudder, the boat is designed for agile handling and efficient upwind performance, offering a hull speed of 7.15 knots. It is also described as a "capable cruiser to take" offshore, reflecting its balanced performance and seaworthiness.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom details are not readily available in general specifications, the Contention 33 was designed to offer comfortable cruising capabilities within its performance-focused hull. Typical for a 33-foot cruiser-racer of its era, the interior likely features a conventional layout optimizing space for both living and sailing functions. This would generally include a forward V-berth for sleeping, a marine head (restroom) often located just aft of the V-berth or between the forward cabin and salon, and a main salon with settees that may double as berths, often surrounding a folding dining table. A compact but functional galley would typically be situated along one side of the companionway, providing essential amenities for meal preparation. Storage would be integrated throughout the vessel in lockers, shelves, and under-berth spaces, crucial for extended cruising. The builder's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship suggests that the interior finish would feature durable materials, likely incorporating warm wood trim alongside fiberglass elements, reflecting the robust and capable nature of Southern Ocean Shipyard's vessels.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contention 33 frequently commend its solid construction and robust build quality, hallmarks of Southern Ocean Shipyard's manufacturing ethos. The boat is often described as a "well thought of fast cruiser racer" that maintains its integrity over time. Many owners cherish their vessels, appreciating the Contention 33's seaworthiness and comfortable motion, particularly in offshore conditions. Its ability to perform well under sail, coupled with its reliable construction, contributes to a loyal owner base who value these aspects for both performance sailing and comfortable cruising. While specific recurring weaknesses or common maintenance issues are not widely documented in available public reviews, the general consensus points to a durable and capable yacht.