Compis 33 Information, Review, Specs

The vessel features a sandwich construction for both the hull and deck, utilizing Divinycell as a core material to provide thermal insulation and structural stiffness without excessive weight. This construction method was advanced for its time, aiming to minimize the condensation issues common in solid fiberglass hulls. As a "half-tonner" successor, the Compis 33 was often sold as a kit for home completion, which remains a critical factor for contemporary buyers as the quality of the interior cabinetry can vary significantly between individual hulls.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Compis 33 is widely regarded as a stiff, capable performer with a pedigree rooted in Andersson's competitive background as a Finn-class champion. It is equipped with a fractional rig—a hallmark of Swedish design that favors a large, easily trimmed mainsail and smaller headsails, making tacking significantly less strenuous for short-handed crews. According to technical analysis by Maringuiden, the boat's Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio suggests it is slightly "overrigged," allowing it to excel in light-to-moderate Baltic winds where other cruisers might stall.

Under sail, the lead fin keel and deep spade rudder provide high maneuverability and a low center of gravity. While its displacement/length ratio categorizes it as a moderate racer-cruiser, owners report that it feels remarkably stable on a reach and can maintain 7 knots of boat speed under optimal conditions. The inclusion of a lead keel—rather than cast iron—is a premium feature that enhances the righting moment, allowing the Compis 33 to carry full sail longer than many of its contemporaries before a reef is required.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Compis 33 is characterized by its generous 3.22-meter beam, which creates a living space that feels closer to a 35-foot vessel. The layout typically features six to seven berths, including a V-berth in the forward cabin, a convertible U-shaped settee in the saloon, and two large quarter-berths (stickkojer) in the aft section. The use of teak is prevalent throughout, and the sandwich construction contributes to a drier, warmer atmosphere in the cabin during northern European shoulder seasons.

Because many hulls were completed by their original owners rather than the factory, internal variations are common. Some models feature a dedicated navigation station to starboard and a longitudinal galley to port, while others might prioritize storage or a larger heads compartment. In many versions, a unique transom hatch doubles as a swimming ladder or gangway, a forward-thinking design choice recorded in Sailguide that anticipated the "open transom" trend of the 1990s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

The Compis 33 is a robustly built yacht, but its history as a kit boat and its sandwich construction require specific scrutiny:

• Home-Completion Quality: The most significant variable is the fit-and-finish of the interior. Buyers should inspect the joinery, electrical wiring, and plumbing for amateurish workmanship, as these can affect both safety and resale value.
• Sandwich Core Integrity: While Divinycell is more resistant to rot than balsa, moisture ingress around deck fittings (cleats, stanchions, winches) can lead to core delamination. A thorough "tap test" or moisture meter reading on the deck is essential.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Since the boat is relatively powerful for its size, the shroud attachments and the fractional mast’s standing rigging should be checked for fatigue, especially if the boat has been raced.
• Engine Aging: Most units were originally fitted with the Volvo Penta 2002 or 2003 series. While reliable, these engines are approaching the end of their service lives; check for heat exchanger corrosion and saildrive seal integrity.

Community & Resources

Support for the model is primarily centered in Scandinavia. Technical details and architectural history are preserved through the Bernt Andersson archives at the Sjöhistoriska Museet (Maritime Museum). Owners often find parts and historical documentation through Swedish sailing forums and the Compisförbundet (Compis Association), which provides a repository for technical manuals and sail plans.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Excellent performance in light to moderate winds thanks to a powerful fractional rig.
• Premium lead keel provides superior stability and "sea-kindly" motion.
• Sandwich hull construction offers better insulation and a drier cabin environment.
• Interior volume is exceptional for a 33-footer, comfortably accommodating a family.

Cons:

• Interior quality is highly inconsistent due to the prevalence of home-completed kits.
• Requires a diligent survey to ensure the sandwich core has not been compromised by water.
• Limited production numbers make finding specific replacement parts (like custom pulpit/pushpit) difficult.
• Can be "tender" if the rig is not properly tuned for heavier weather.