Design and Construction
The Com-Pac 33 measures 34 feet 9 inches overall, with a 28-foot waterline. It displaces 11,000 pounds and carries 5,200 pounds of ballast. A Scheel keel gives the boat a draft of just 4 feet, well suited to shoal-water cruising.
The keel and a generous 42 percent ballast-to-displacement ratio contribute to stability. A displacement-length ratio of 234 and a sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 18.72 put the boat firmly in the moderate, comfortable cruising camp rather than at the lively, racing-oriented end of the spectrum.
The styling is traditional, with a saucy sheerline and short ends that recall catboat lines more than those of contemporary production boats.
Rig, Rudder, and Handling
The masthead-sloop rig places the mast well forward and includes a short bowsprit, fore and aft lowers, and aft-swept spreaders. The cap shrouds share the aft lower chainplate, and all the chainplates are bolted to the outside of the hull, keeping loads visible and the fittings accessible for service.
A partially balanced spade rudder gives the helm reasonable authority. The backstay is offset to one side so that it doesn’t interfere with the boarding ladder. The boat photographed for review had a hydraulic backstay adjuster, allowing the rig to be tuned from the cockpit.
Accommodations
Below, the Com-Pac 33 has two distinct sleeping areas: a forward V-berth and an aft quarter berth that converts to a double. The main cabin is arranged for comfortable lounging and passage-making, with swivel chairs to starboard and an L-shaped settee to port. A dining table mounts on the bulkhead, leaving the cabin sole clear.
Headroom reaches 6 feet 8 inches, and the head has dedicated shower space. The interior combines a molded GRP liner with teak trim, a practical arrangement that resists wear while retaining a warm cabin appearance.
Equipment and Power
Standard equipment includes a Universal 25-horsepower diesel, 30 gallons of fuel capacity, and 75 gallons of water capacity. The water capacity supports extended stays aboard.
The masthead sail plan carries 579 square feet of sail area. That’s a manageable amount of canvas for a couple or family, consistent with the boat’s simple approach to outfitting.
Verdict
The Com-Pac 33 is a thoughtfully resolved shoal-draft cruiser that favors comfortable family use and easy handling over outright performance. Charley Morgan’s layout makes intelligent use of the boat’s modest beam and draft, while the externally bolted chainplates reflect a serviceable, owner-friendly approach to construction.
Pros
- Shoal 4-foot Scheel keel enables gunkholing and reduces grounding risk
- Generous 42 percent ballast ratio provides a stable, reassuring motion
- Two separate sleeping areas and 6-foot-8-inch headroom make the interior more livable for cruising
- Externally mounted chainplates simplify inspection and future service
Cons
- Moderate sail-area-to-displacement ratio limits sparkle in light air
- Traditional outfitting provides fewer modern conveniences as standard
