Design and Construction
At 34 feet 9 inches overall with a 28-foot waterline, the Com-Pac 33 carries 11,000 pounds of displacement and 5,200 pounds of ballast in a hull that draws just 4 feet thanks to a Scheel keel anchor. Stability comes from that Scheel keel, and the 42 percent ballast-to-displacement ratio is generous for a shoal-draft cruiser. The boat’s displacement-length ratio of 234 and sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 18.72 place her firmly in the moderate, comfortable cruising camp rather than the lively racer end of the spectrum. Visually, the design reads traditional, with a saucy sheerline and short ends that recall catboat lines more than contemporary production styling.
Rig and Handling
The masthead-sloop rig places the mast well forward and carries a short bowsprit, with fore and aft lowers and spreaders swept aft anchor. The cap shrouds share the aft lower chainplate, and all chainplates are bolted to the outside of the hull — a detail that keeps loads visible and serviceable. A partially balanced spade rudder gives the helm reasonable authority, while the backstay is offset to one side so it does not interfere with the boarding ladder. The boat photographed for review showed a hydraulic backstay adjuster, allowing the rig to be tuned from the cockpit.
Accommodations
Below, the Com-Pac 33 provides two distinct sleeping areas: a V-berth forward and an aft quarter berth that converts to a double anchor. The main cabin is arranged for lounging and passage-making comfort, with swivel chairs to starboard and an L-shaped settee to port, and a dining table mounted on the bulkhead to keep the sole clear. Headroom runs to 6 feet 8 inches, and the head includes dedicated shower space. The interior is a molded GRP liner trimmed in teak, a practical combination that resists wear while keeping a warm cabin aesthetic.
Equipment and Power
Standard equipment centers on a Universal 25-horsepower diesel backed by 30 gallons of fuel, with 75 gallons of water capacity supporting extended stays aboard anchor. The 579 square feet of sail area on the masthead plan gives a manageable canvas for a couple or family to handle, consistent with the boat’s simple-outfitting ethos.
The Verdict
The Com-Pac 33 is a thoughtfully resolved shoal-draft cruiser that prioritizes comfortable family use and easy handling over outright performance. Charley Morgan’s layout makes intelligent use of the modest beam and draft, and the externally bolted chainplates reflect a serviceable, owner-friendly construction attitude.
Pros
- Shoal 4-foot Scheel keel enables gunkholing and reduces grounding risk
- Generous 42 percent ballast ratio for a stable, reassuring motion
- Two separate sleeping areas plus 6'8" headroom for livable cruising
- Externally mounted chainplates simplify inspection and future service
Cons
- Moderate sail-area-to-displacement ratio limits sparkle in light air
- Traditional outfitting means fewer modern conveniences as standard
