Hinterhoeller Nonsuch 33 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Nonsuch 33’s defining characteristic is its unstayed carbon fiber mast and wishbone boom, a configuration that eliminates shrouds, stays, and the need for a headsail. While traditional sailors may initially scoff at the cat rig, the performance data tells a different story. The boat carries a massive 734-square-foot mainsail on a hull with a 12-foot 6-inch beam, providing a high Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio that allows it to excel in light to moderate air. Because there is no forestay, the mast can be stepped far forward, creating a long waterline that enables the boat to reach hull speed quickly.

Handling the 33 is remarkably simple, as there are no jib sheets to winch during a tack; the helmsperson simply turns the wheel, and the sail swings across. However, the wishbone rig requires a specific technique for sail shaping. According to editorial reviews in Sailing Magazine, which discusses the lineage of the Mark Ellis designs, the rig’s ability to "depower" by allowing the top of the sail to twist off in gusts makes it a very safe platform for shorthanded couples. On a reach, the 33 is exceptionally fast, though sailors should be aware of the "Nonsuch roll" when running dead downwind, a common trait of cat-rigged boats with large, single sails.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nonsuch 33 is famously cavernous, often compared to traditional 38-to-40-foot sloops. By utilizing the "Ultra" layout, Hinterhoeller moved the head forward and created a large, private double berth to port, offset from the centerline. This provides a level of privacy not found in the "Classic" open-plan versions of the Nonsuch 26 or 30. The main saloon features a large L-shaped settee and a straight settee, with a heavy-duty folding table that can accommodate six adults for dinner.

The 33’s galley is positioned aft to starboard, featuring a deep double sink, a large icebox (often converted to refrigeration), and a three-burner propane stove. Storage is abundant, with numerous lockers and drawers crafted in the signature Hinterhoeller teak joinery. Sibling models built on this design philosophy include the smaller Nonsuch 26 and 30, as well as the larger 36 and 40. While the 30 was available in both Classic and Ultra versions, the 33 benefited from a more modern deck mold that integrated a more ergonomic cockpit and better-positioned primary winches.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on the unique engineering requirements of an unstayed rig. While the carbon fiber masts are incredibly durable, they must be inspected for UV degradation or stress cracking at the partners (where the mast meets the deck).

• Mast Partners and Wedges: The mast is supported by a large collar at the deck level. If the rubber wedges or Chockfast material has degraded, the mast can "click" or move excessively, leading to stress on the deck structure.
• Wishbone Hanger and Blocks: The hardware that suspends the wishbone boom from the mast is a high-load point. Inspect the stainless steel hangers and the blocks at the end of the wishbone for seizing or hairline fractures.
• Balsa Core Integrity: Like many Hinterhoeller builds of this era, the deck is balsa-cored. Check for moisture ingress around the oversized mooring cleats and the cockpit coamings, which are common areas for water to seep into the core.
• Rudder Bearings: The large spade rudder on the 33 takes significant load due to the boat's high initial stability and beam. Excessive play in the steering or a "clunking" sound while underway often indicates the need for new bushings.

Community & Resources

The boat is supported by a robust and highly active owner base, primarily through the International Nonsuch Association (INA). This organization maintains an extensive technical library that includes original Hinterhoeller blueprints, rigging specifications, and maintenance guides specifically for the 33. The association also coordinates regional "rendezvous" events, particularly in the Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay areas, where the model remains most popular.

The Verdict

The Nonsuch 33 is a "thinking person’s" cruiser that prioritizes ease of handling and interior volume over traditional aesthetics. It is an ideal vessel for coastal cruising and island hopping, particularly for those who wish to continue sailing well into their later years without the physical strain of grinding large genoas.

Pros

• Ease of Use: True single-handed sailing with no headsails to manage.
• Massive Interior: Living space equivalent to much larger, more expensive yachts.
• Build Quality: Exceptional teak joinery and structural integrity from the Hinterhoeller yard.
• Stability: High initial stability makes for a comfortable, upright sailing experience.

Cons

• Aesthetic Appeal: The plumb bow and cat rig are polarizing to traditionalists.
• Downwind Performance: Can be prone to rhythmic rolling when sailing deep downwind.
• Rigging Specifics: Finding replacement parts for the wishbone hardware can require custom fabrication.