Spaulding 33 Information, Review, Specs

The Spaulding 33 entered production in 1941 and continued to be built intermittently until 1968, reflecting the bespoke nature of its construction. Myron Spaulding, the boat's designer and builder, was renowned for his meticulous approach to yacht design and an unwavering commitment to quality wooden boat craftsmanship. His design philosophy, heavily influenced by his experiences racing iconic vessels like the Sparkman & Stephens-designed yawl Dorade, emphasized creating beautiful, high-performing boats that meticulously adhered to class rules. The builder, Spaulding Boat Works, was celebrated for its dedication to traditional methods and a manufacturing ethos that prioritized excellence over cost.

The Spaulding 33 features a wood single chine hull, often constructed with plywood, which contributed to its reputation for being both fast and dry. It is equipped with a fin keel and a fractional sloop rig, a common and effective configuration for the period. There is no readily available information to suggest significant variations in the design or rig of the Spaulding 33 during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The performance characteristics of the Spaulding 33 can be interpreted through its design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.54, the Spaulding 33 is not optimized for blistering light-air performance. Instead, this ratio suggests a vessel that prioritizes stability and a steady motion, making it a capable cruiser in a variety of conditions. Its Displacement to Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 368.6 further reinforces its identity as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, built to handle a seaway with a comfortable motion rather than to plane.

Despite its robust construction, the plywood hull of the Spaulding 33 is noted for contributing to its "fast and dry" nature. The fractional sloop rig and fin keel provide a balanced sail plan and efficient underwater foil, contributing to its handling. While specific anecdotal descriptions of its handling are scarce, Myron Spaulding's reputation for designing high-performance yachts suggests a boat that is responsive and a pleasure to sail. The calculated hull speed is 6.6 knots, indicating a respectable pace for a vessel of its waterline length.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout of the Spaulding 33 is limited, with no details on maximum headroom available in the provided specifications. However, as a traditional wooden yacht from the mid-20th century, one can infer a classic arrangement typical for a vessel of its size. These boats often featured a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. The use of traditional materials, as indicated by mentions of a "solid teak cabin house," suggests a finely finished interior with a warm, classic aesthetic. Storage would likely be integrated into the joinery, and ventilation would depend on traditional deck hatches and portlights. Given the era and builder's focus on quality, the interior would have been crafted with durability and seaworthiness in mind, offering a comfortable if not overly spacious environment for coastal cruising or extended weekends afloat.