Fjord 33 MS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

As a motor sailer with a heavy displacement-to-length ratio, the Fjord 33 MS is characterized by its exceptional "sea-kindliness" and directional stability. The boat features a long keel with a protected skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that allows it to track effortlessly even in confused following seas. According to historical design notes from Amble Design, the hull was engineered to provide a dry ride, with a high bow and flared sections that deflect spray.

Under sail, the 33 MS is most commonly rigged as a ketch, though sloop versions exist. The ketch rig is particularly advantageous for a vessel of this type, as it allows for a "jib and jigger" configuration—sailing under just the forestay and the mizzen—which balances the boat perfectly in heavy weather while maintaining a low center of effort. However, with a modest sail-area-to-displacement ratio, the boat is not a light-air performer. It requires a stiff breeze (Force 4 or higher) to reach its hull speed. In lighter conditions or when pointing high into the wind, the vessel is designed to be "motor-sailed," utilizing its large diesel engine to maintain speed while the sails provide stabilizing lift, significantly reducing rolling in offshore swells.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Fjord 33 MS is defined by its sheltered pilothouse, which serves as the social and navigational heart of the boat. Unlike pure sailing yachts of the same era, the 33 MS offers a true "inside-outside" lifestyle. The main saloon is elevated, providing panoramic 360-degree views through large toughened glass windows, a feature that makes the boat particularly suited for high-latitude cruising or inclement weather.

The layout typically consists of a forward V-berth cabin, a separate heads compartment, and a convertible dinette in the main saloon. The use of high-quality teak joinery and thick GRP moldings gives the interior a robust, traditional feel. Variations of the model include the Fjord 33 Attache, which often featured a more powerboat-oriented cockpit, and the smaller sibling, the Fjord 28 MS, which condensed these features into a more compact footprint. The 33 MS excels in storage capacity, with deep lockers designed for long-term coastal hopping. However, buyers should note that the aft cockpit is relatively small compared to modern Mediterranean-style cruisers, as the design prioritizes internal volume and the sheltered steering station.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a Fjord 33 MS should focus their inspections on the unique aging characteristics of 1970s Norwegian GRP construction. While the hulls are famously "over-built," several specific areas require scrutiny:

• Engine Service Life: Many Fjord 33s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta MD21 or Perkins diesel engines. Given the boat's reliance on its motor for windward work, the service history of these aging units is critical. Parts for the MD21 can be increasingly difficult to source.
• Pilothouse Window Seals: The large windows that define the 33 MS profile are prone to leakage over decades. Check for water staining on the interior woodwork below the frames, as persistent leaks can lead to core rot in the surrounding bulkheads.
• Rudder Bushings: The skeg-hung rudder is a robust design, but the bushings can wear, leading to vibration or "play" in the steering. This is most easily checked when the boat is hauled out.
• Deck Core Integrity: While Fjord used high-quality materials, some areas of the deck may have a balsa or foam core that can suffer from delamination if hardware (such as stanchion bases or cleats) has not been properly re-bedded.
• Osmotic Blistering: Like many yachts from the mid-70s, the Fjord 33 MS is susceptible to osmosis. While rarely structural, it is a significant factor in valuation and may require a gelcoat peel and epoxy treatment.

Community & Resources

The Fjord brand maintains a strong following, particularly in Scandinavia and Germany. Technical support and historical documentation are often shared through the Fjord Club, a dedicated association for owners of Fjord-built vessels. Additionally, because the 33 MS was a significant export for the Norwegian marine industry, technical archives and original drawings are sometimes maintained by the Norsk Maritimt Museum (Norwegian Maritime Museum) in Oslo, which documents the history of major Norwegian builders like Fjord Plast.

The Verdict

The Fjord 33 MS is a "proper ship" for the sailor who values comfort, safety, and the ability to keep moving when the weather turns foul. It is not a boat for those seeking regatta trophies, but it is an exceptional choice for couples or small families looking for a sturdy coastal cruiser with a touch of classic Scandinavian charm.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and "heavy-weather" hull design.
• Dual steering stations provide comfort in all weather conditions.
• High resale value and a dedicated enthusiast community.
• Stable and predictable handling characteristics under power and sail.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds (less than 10 knots).
• High maintenance requirements for aging original engines.
• Large window areas can lead to significant greenhouse heat gain in tropical climates.
• Relatively small cockpit for a 33-foot vessel.