Victoire 933 Information, Review, Specs

The Victoire 933 emerged from the renowned Dutch shipyard Victoire Yachts, founded by Dick Koopmans Sr. in the early 1960s. Production of the Victoire 933 began in 1976 and continued until 2005, spanning nearly three decades. The design brief for the 933, like many Victoire models, focused on creating a "racer/cruiser" that offered a harmonious blend of spirited performance and comfortable cruising capabilities. Dick Koopmans Sr. was known for his emphasis on round-bilged hulls, a characteristic that contributed to the excellent sailing traits of Victoire yachts.

During its extensive production run, the Victoire 933 saw significant modernization in 1992, which updated both its interior style and deck layout. In 2013, the molds for the Victoire 933 were acquired by Breehorn and the design was re-introduced, albeit with notable modifications, as the Breehorn 31. The builder, Victoire Yachts, consistently employed durable materials, primarily polyester for robust hull construction, adhering to their ethos of enduring quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 158.5, the Victoire 933 indicates a moderate performance profile, capable of good speed in various conditions without being an extreme light-air specialist or a heavy displacement cruiser. The boat's ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) stands at a robust 0.426. This relatively high percentage of ballast contributes significantly to the yacht's stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up well to a considerable amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway.

The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of about 286.1 places the Victoire 933 firmly in the heavier cruiser category, though it avoids being excessively heavy. This suggests a solid, sea-kindly vessel that prioritizes comfort and stability over ultimate light-air speed. Owners generally praise the Victoire 933 for its exceptional sailing characteristics and solid build. The boat is often described as having a spacious cockpit and offering excellent sailing performance, especially when equipped with a mainsail and furling genoa.

Accommodations and Layout

The Victoire 933 boasts a spacious and practical layout both on deck and below. The interior, which offers a generous headroom of 1.90 meters (6.23 ft), typically features a two-berth forepeak forward. The saloon is designed for comfort, often including a foldable table with a bottle tray. A spacious galley is usually situated on the starboard side, providing ample working space and storage. While specific details can vary depending on the year of build and owner modifications, the overall finish quality is generally robust, consistent with Victoire's reputation for using durable materials. Ventilation and storage are typically well-considered for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Victoire 933 for its solid construction, good sailing characteristics, and overall quality. The design by Dick Koopmans Sr. is highly regarded, contributing to the boat's enduring appeal. The vessel's seaworthiness is a recurring theme in owner discussions, reflecting its ability to handle various conditions comfortably. Some discussions among owners revolve around practical aspects like potential leaks around deck fittings, with owners on forums discussing re-bedding to address these issues. Modifications and improvements are also a common topic, indicating a dedicated owner community keen on maintaining and enhancing their vessels. The boat's enduring popularity and presence on the used market underscore a strong informal community of Victoire owners who value the heritage and performance of these classic Dutch yachts.