Karate Sport Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Karate Sport is widely regarded as a stiff and sea-kindly vessel, benefitting from a relatively high ballast ratio that allows it to carry full sail longer than many modern light-displacement cruisers. With a displacement of approximately 4,000 kg and a draft of 1.80 meters, the boat tracks well and exhibits a high degree of directional stability. Marine researchers and owners often highlight its "heavy weather" pedigree; according to technical archives from the French nautical publication Voiles et Voiliers, the hull’s deep V-sections forward help it part waves without the slamming common in flatter-bottomed designs.

Handling is characterized by a "heavy" but communicative feel through the tiller or wheel. The skeg-hung rudder provides significant protection against debris and adds a layer of safety for offshore passages. While it may not excel in very light airs due to its wetted surface area, the Karate Sport becomes a formidable "marcheur" (performer) once the breeze exceeds 12 knots. The "Sport" designation typically indicates a slightly taller mast or a sail plan adjusted for better efficiency, though the hull remains identical to its siblings.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the Karate MK1, which was famous (and sometimes criticized) for its separate aft cabin that could only be accessed via the cockpit, the Karate Sport typically utilizes a more traditional "central" layout. This configuration creates a more social and cohesive living space, with a linear or U-shaped galley and a proper navigation station. The interior is characterized by the heavy use of teak and mahogany veneers, typical of the era, providing a warm, ship-like atmosphere. Headroom is generous for a 33-footer, generally exceeding 1.85 meters (6' 1") in the main saloon.

The Karate hull was the foundation for several notable siblings. The Karate MK1 featured the aforementioned split-cabin arrangement, while the Karate MK2 refined the interior and deck mold. There was also a Karate 33 designation that often overlapped with these models in different markets. The Sport variant specifically targeted the sailor who wanted a more "connected" interior where the navigator and cook could communicate with those in the saloon, while also benefiting from a deck layout better suited for active sail trimming.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a CNSO Karate Sport should prioritize a rigorous inspection of the fiberglass laminate. Like many French boats built during the 1970s, "osmotic blistering" is a common finding; while rarely structural in these overbuilt hulls, it often requires a peel-and-dry treatment if not previously addressed.

The secondary area of concern is the deck core. CNSO utilized a sandwich construction for the decks which, after five decades, can suffer from delamination if stanchion bases or cleat fixings were not properly re-bedded. Buyers should walk the side decks specifically looking for "soft spots." Furthermore, the original Perkins or Yanmar diesel engines are reaching the end of their service lives; unless a previous owner has performed a repower, the cost of an engine overhaul should be factored into the purchase price. Finally, the aluminum window frames are known to leak over time, often requiring the replacement of old gaskets to protect the interior woodwork.

Community & Resources

The Karate Sport benefits from a dedicated following in Europe, particularly within the French sailing community. The most prominent resource is the Association des Propriétaires de Karaté (Friends of Karate Owners Club), which serves as a repository for technical drawings and rigging specifications. Technical discussions and restoration logs are also frequently hosted on French maritime platforms like Hisse-et-oh, where the boat’s transition from a production cruiser to a "classic plastic" icon is well-documented.

The Verdict

The Karate Sport is a rugged, "honest" cruiser that offers a level of seaworthiness often missing in contemporary production boats of similar size. It is a vessel built for the sailor who prioritizes structural safety and traditional aesthetics over modern "condo-maran" interior volume.

Pros:

• Exceptionally robust hull construction capable of serious offshore work.
• Predictable and stable handling in heavy weather conditions.
• Conventional interior layout is more practical for most owners than the MK1's aft-cabin design.
• Strong community support and a timeless Michel Bigoin aesthetic.

Cons:

• Aging electrical and plumbing systems usually require a total refit.
• Prone to osmotic blistering and deck delamination if neglected.
• Relatively slow in light wind conditions compared to modern performance cruisers.