Com-Pac 33 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Com-Pac 33 in 1999 marked an expansion of Com-Pac Yachts' well-established lineup of compact, yet capable, sailing vessels. The design by Charley Morgan explicitly aimed for "family cruising comfort in shoal waters," reflecting a practical approach to coastal exploration. Com-Pac Yachts, under the steadfast ownership of the Hutchins family, has consistently upheld a manufacturing ethos focused on durability and value, creating boats that are "easy to sail, easy to launch, and easy to trailer". This commitment is evident in the Com-Pac 33's construction and its notable Scheel keel, which facilitates its shoal-draft capabilities. Interestingly, the Com-Pac 33 evolved into the Com-Pac 35, with the latter essentially being the 33-footer extended by a longer transom, demonstrating a design lineage aimed at maximizing usable space and performance within a proven hull form.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Com-Pac 33 is a masthead sloop with a reported sail area of 570 square feet, designed for balanced performance rather than outright racing [3,. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.47, she is capable of performing well in light to moderate air, offering respectable speeds for a cruising boat. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.47 indicates a high degree of stability and stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a good breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Weighing in as a moderately heavy cruiser, with a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 223.7, the Com-Pac 33 is designed for stability and comfort over raw speed. Anecdotal reports suggest the boat handles well, with a partially balanced spade rudder contributing to a potentially light helm, thanks to the mast being well-forward and a short bowsprit.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the maximum headroom for the Com-Pac 33 are not readily available in the provided specifications, the interior is typically described as featuring a GRP (fiberglass) liner tastefully trimmed in teak. As a family cruiser, the layout generally includes standard amenities for comfortable living aboard, designed to accommodate multiple occupants for extended periods. Cruising boats of this size often feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a functional galley, and an enclosed head. The boat also boasts a substantial fresh water capacity of 75 gallons, supporting longer stays aboard [2,.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Com-Pac yachts generally appreciate the brand's commitment to solid construction and practical design. While specific owner reviews for the Com-Pac 33 are less widely published than for some smaller models, discussions within owner communities, such as the Com-Pac Yachts Owners Association, indicate a supportive network. One recurring concern that has been noted by some owners across various Com-Pac models, and potentially relevant to the 33, involves the tendency for interior plywood components to develop rot, an issue that may require attention.