Sailing Performance & Handling
The Cal 33 is widely regarded for its balanced handling and surprising speed, particularly in light to moderate air. With a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 17.7, it possesses enough power to remain lively when heavier cruisers are forced to engine-sail. The Hunt design philosophy is evident in the hull’s deep-V entry, which allows the boat to slice through chop with less pounding than its flatter-bottomed predecessors.
On the water, the boat is known for its stiffness and "big boat" feel, a result of its ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 40%. It tracks exceptionally well, reducing helmsman fatigue during long passages. Owners often report that the boat remains controllable even when slightly overpowered, though it rewards early reefing. The model was offered with two keel configurations: a deep fin keel for maximum aerodynamic lift and a Schreck-designed wing keel for sailors in shallower regions like the Chesapeake or Florida. According to an editorial review by Practical Sailor, the boat’s performance is a notable step up from earlier Cal models, offering a more modern, responsive feel that appeals to sailors transitioning from racing dinghies or performance sloops.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Cal 33-2 was a significant departure from the "spartan" reputation of early Jensen Marine builds. Utilizing the full 11' 4" beam, the layout is remarkably open, featuring 6' 2" of headroom and a level of woodwork—mostly teak and holly—that signaled Cal’s attempt to compete with higher-end marques like Sabre or Tartan.
The "T-shaped" cockpit allows for an innovative aft-cabin arrangement, which was a luxury for a 33-foot boat in the mid-80s. This private double berth is tucked under the cockpit sole on the starboard side. To port, the galley is equipped with a deep sink and a two-burner stove, positioned near the companionway for optimal ventilation. The salon features a U-shaped settee to starboard and a straight settee to port, which also serves as a sea berth. A notable variation in the production run included the choice of upholstery and minor tweaks to the navigation station, but the core "Hunt" layout remained consistent. The forward V-berth is spacious enough for two adults, and the head is positioned forward of the salon, providing a degree of separation between the two primary sleeping areas.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
While the Cal 33 was built during the era when production techniques had matured, there are several "gotchas" specific to this model and its manufacturing period:
- Keel-to-Hull Joint: While the "Cal Smile" (a crack at the leading edge of the keel) is more famous on Lapworth models, the Hunt 33 should be inspected for any movement in the keel bolts, particularly on wing-keel versions which can exert higher leverage during a grounding.
- Deck Coring: Like most boats of this era, the deck is balsa-cored. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a percussion test around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step, as hardware sealant often fails after 30 years.
- Mast Step and Compression: The mast is keel-stepped. It is critical to inspect the base of the mast for corrosion due to standing water in the bilge and to ensure the compression post is structurally sound and hasn't compressed the cabin top or shifted at the base.
- Engine Maintenance: Most units were equipped with the Universal M25 or M25XP diesel. These are reliable engines, but the "wire harness" issue—where the original factory wiring used a trailer-plug connector that can overheat—is a well-documented safety concern that should be upgraded if not already addressed.
Community & Resources
The Cal 33 benefits from a very active and technically proficient owner community. The Cal Sailboat Owners association remains the primary hub for technical drawings and historical data. While there is no longer a dedicated factory support system, the shared heritage with other Fall River-built boats (like the O'Day 35) means that many parts and structural solutions are well-documented in the "Cal-List" archives and similar community-maintained wikis.
The Verdict
The Cal 33 (Hunt) is an excellent choice for the sailor who wants a "modern classic" that doesn't sacrifice performance for comfort. It remains one of the best-kept secrets on the used market for those seeking a sturdy, coastal cruiser with a pedigree of speed.
Pros:
- Exceptional performance in a wide range of wind conditions.
- High-quality interior woodwork compared to earlier production Cals.
- Innovative aft-cabin layout for a vessel under 35 feet.
Cons:
- Aging deck hardware may require significant re-bedding.
- The deep fin keel version may be restrictive in shallow coastal areas.
- Original electrical systems often require modernization to meet current safety standards.
