Tufglas 33 Information, Review, Specs

The narrative of the Tufglas 33 begins earlier than its official production years, tracing its lineage back to E.G. Van de Stadt's design #140 from 1965. This design first manifested as the Dutch-built Trintella IIA in 1969, a GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) evolution of the earlier steel Trintel I notes, 7, 3]. Tyler Boat Co. Ltd., a pioneer in fiberglass yacht construction, then introduced the design as the Seacracker 33 before re-launching it as the Tufglas 33 in 1976 notes, 5]. Production of the Tufglas 33 continued until 1978, reflecting a short but significant period in Tyler's history.

E.G. Van de Stadt, a prominent figure in yacht design, based his philosophy on principles of speed, comfort, safety, and quality, advocating for innovation in materials and light construction where appropriate. Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. itself was a master laminator, instrumental in the adoption of fiberglass in the marine industry, often supplying high-quality GRP hulls and decks to other finishers and even amateur builders. This approach meant that while the hull design remained consistent, the final fit-out of individual boats could vary.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tufglas 33, with its moderate dimensions and traditional displacement, offers a balanced and reassuring sailing experience. With a length overall of nearly 33 feet and a waterline of 24 feet, she maintains a good cruising speed. Her displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 336.8 indicates a heavier, more traditional cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a planing speed demon.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.43 highlights the Tufglas 33's inherent stability, allowing her to stand up well to her canvas in stronger winds. Owners frequently praise the Trintella IIA, the design's predecessor, as a "good sailing ship" that performs well "high against the wind and a quiet on the water". The sail area-to-displacement ratio, estimated at about 18.38 (based on a sail area of 549 sq ft for the similar Trintella IIA), suggests a capable performer in various conditions, with sufficient power for light air while retaining the stability for more challenging weather. Her fin keel design is noted for providing splendid maneuverability, contributing to a responsive helm. Owners of the Seacracker 33 (the direct predecessor) have consistently described her as safe in any weather and "very steady".

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the Tufglas 33, consistent with the practice of Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. selling hulls to various finishers, can exhibit variations. However, typical of Van de Stadt designs from the 1960s and 70s, the accommodation generally prioritized seaworthiness and practicality over expansive living spaces. Commonly, the interior would feature a traditional arrangement with a V-berth forward, followed by a main salon with settees that often convert to berths on either side. A galley area, typically aft in the salon or slightly to port, and a navigation station would complement the living space. A enclosed head compartment would usually be situated between the V-berth and the salon. While specific headroom figures are not available, it would generally be considered adequate for a boat of its era, though modern designs offer more volume. The finish quality and materials, such as wood trim and fiberglass surfaces, would have varied based on the individual finisher, with some boasting more bespoke joinery than others.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tufglas 33 and its direct ancestors, the Seacracker 33 and Trintella IIA, generally speak highly of the design's sailing characteristics and robust build quality. Many appreciate the boat's "great sailing characteristics" and its ability to win cups in various events. The design is consistently praised for its stability and sense of security in different sea states. A common observation among Trintella IIA owners, which likely extends to the Tufglas 33, is the tendency for the original BMC engine to be replaced due to age or performance, indicating a routine upgrade for many vessels of this vintage. The durable fiberglass hull and deck, molded by Tyler, have proven to be long-lasting, though like any older boat, attention to deck-stepped mast sealing and potential teak overlay maintenance might be required over time.