Seacracker 33 Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of nearly 33 feet, the Seacracker 33 strikes a balance between manageable size and sufficient volume for coastal or even offshore voyaging. It represents a significant chapter in the early adoption of fiberglass as a primary boatbuilding material, leveraging Tyler Boat Co. Ltd.'s expertise in producing high-quality GRP hulls.

History and Design

The Seacracker 33 was first introduced in 1971. Its design shares an identical hull with the earlier Dutch-built Trintella IIA, which was introduced in 1969. This common lineage highlights a period of innovative design and cross-European collaboration in yacht building. E. G. Van de Stadt, the esteemed designer behind the Seacracker 33, was known for creating yachts with "good seagoing performance with high ultimate stability", a philosophy clearly embodied in this model. His association with Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. was extensive, with the British company also building hulls for other notable Van de Stadt designs like the "Glass Slipper" and the "Rebel 41".

Tyler Boat Co. Ltd., established by Edward Tyler, played a pivotal role in the fiberglass revolution, earning a reputation as a master laminator of GRP hulls and decks. Their manufacturing ethos during the era focused on providing robust, high-quality fiberglass structures, often supplying hulls to other yards for completion or even selling them as kits to amateur builders, Builder Article]. This practice led to some variations in the final fit-out of the Seacracker 33. Notably, only 12 units were built under the "Seacracker 33" name before the model was rebranded as the "Tufglass 33," continuing production until 1978.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seacracker 33, with its carefully balanced design, offers a commendable sailing experience. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.5 suggests good performance in lighter winds, allowing the boat to move efficiently even when the breeze is modest. This is complemented by a high Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 42.9%, indicating a stiff and stable vessel capable of standing up to significant wind without excessive heel. This structural stiffness contributes to its reputation for comfortable motion and security in a seaway.

With a Displacement to Length ratio of about 336.8, the Seacracker 33 falls into the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser rather than a light, performance-oriented racer. This reflects its design intent as a robust offshore vessel, prioritizing comfort and safety over outright speed. Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Seacracker 33 for its "fine reputation for sea keeping and performance" and its ability to "keep you safe in any weather" while maintaining a "very steady going round". While some anecdotal accounts mention a tendency for a little weather helm, owners often configure these boats with conservative rigs, such as a 155% roller-reefing Genoa and a main with three reefing points, to further enhance safety and control.

Accommodations and Layout

Due to Tyler Boat Co. Ltd.'s practice of selling hulls for completion by various finishers and amateur builders, the interior layout of the Seacracker 33 can exhibit some variation. However, common arrangements typically feature a conventional layout for a vessel of its size, designed for practical cruising. Information suggests that some original plans included a galley, though specifics like the exact placement (e.g., to port or starboard, or aft) would vary.

General interior descriptions from owner inquiries and reviews hint at a functional, if not always luxurious, living space. Given the production era, interiors likely featured a blend of fiberglass liners and wood trim, offering a classic yacht aesthetic. Storage would have been adequate for extended cruising, and ventilation would have been provided through traditional deck hatches and portlights. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design generally provided comfortable living space for its time, though perhaps not matching the expansive accommodations of modern, wider-beamed yachts. For those considering a Seacracker 33 as a project, finding a vessel that requires a complete interior fit-out is not uncommon, allowing for custom configurations.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seacracker 33 consistently laud its robust construction and exceptional seakeeping abilities. The collective sentiment is that these are well-built, safe vessels, capable of handling challenging conditions with composure. The design philosophy of sailing "fast in safety" resonates strongly with the typical Seacracker owner. The boat's stability and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently highlighted as major strengths, making it a favored choice for those undertaking coastal cruises or more ambitious offshore passages.

While specific recurring mechanical issues are not widely documented, like many older fiberglass boats, potential owners should be mindful of age-related wear. Areas such as original deck fittings may eventually require re-bedding, and the stern area near the rudder has been noted as a potential point of attention for repair on some older models. However, the enduring presence of these vessels, many still actively sailing decades after their launch, is a powerful testament to the fundamental soundness of the Van de Stadt design and the quality of Tyler's fiberglass construction.