Design and Construction
Production of the Sun Odyssey 33 I began in 2008. The boat was built by Jeanneau’s parent company, the Beneteau Group.
The hull is solid fiberglass, and the deck is also solid fiberglass. Displacement is 10,240 pounds, including 3,307 pounds of iron ballast, for a ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 32 percent. The 6-foot 3-inch bulb keel is paired with a spade rudder.
Within Lombard’s cruising portfolio for Jeanneau, the 33 I is one of the smaller examples of a modern, volume-oriented approach to boats in the mid-30-foot range. Its stated hull speed is 7.35 knots.
Rig and Handling
The fractional sloop rig is a sporty 19/20ths arrangement with two sets of swept spreaders. Sail area is 554 square feet, giving a sail-area-to-displacement ratio of roughly 17. That puts the 33 I toward the lively, rather than sluggish, end of the cruiser spectrum.
Period descriptions credited the boat with intuitive handling and light, reactive wheel steering. The fractional rig and swept spreaders contribute to a gratifyingly nimble feel under way. All sail-handling functions are within easy reach from the spacious cockpit, which gives the crew room to work the controls comfortably.
Accommodations
Below, the inviting interior combines quality trimmings with a comfortable, spacious saloon. Double cabins lie fore and aft, while the amidships settees can sleep two people. Each comfortable cabin has large hanging lockers and numerous portholes offering a view of the sea.
The open, practical galley makes a decent workspace. A true, fully functional chart table is also fitted, although one review described the nav table as small. The fully equipped heads and shower compartment appears to be a good size. Altogether, the interior layout is well suited to coastal and weekend cruising.
The Verdict
The Sun Odyssey 33 I is a straightforward modern cruiser that favors usable volume and an engaging rig over complexity. Built by the Beneteau Group, she’s easy to sail, roomy for her length, and well suited to couples or small families looking for a simple, modern 33-foot cruiser without oversized systems to maintain.
Pros
- Intuitive handling, with light, reactive wheel steering
- Sail controls within easy reach of the helm
- Spacious cockpit and a comfortable, roomy saloon with quality trimmings
- Double cabins fore and aft, plus settee berths amidships
- Large hanging lockers and good natural light in both cabins
- Practical open galley
- True, fully functional chart table
- Full heads and shower compartment
Cons
- One review described the nav table as small, despite its full functionality
- Simple by intent, with limited scope for sailors seeking a heavily optioned or performance-extreme specification
