LeComte Medalist 33 Mk II/Iii Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Medalist 33 is a product of the CCA (Cruising Club of America) design era, featuring long overhangs, a narrow beam relative to modern standards, and a traditional full keel with a cutaway forefoot. With a length overall (LOA) of nearly 33 feet and a waterline length (LWL) of approximately 22 feet 6 inches, the boat utilizes its "effective waterline" to its advantage; as the hull heels, the long overhangs enter the water, increasing the theoretical hull speed and providing a stable, predictable motion in a seaway.

The Mk II and Mk III versions typically carry the sloop rig, though the Mk III is specifically noted for its updated rig geometry, often attributed to refinements by Ted Hood. These later versions addressed the light-air sluggishness sometimes associated with heavy-displacement CCA designs by increasing the sail area-to-displacement ratio. Owners and reviewers often describe the handling as exceptionally "track-stable," meaning the boat holds its course with minimal helm input, a trait favored by single-handed sailors. However, like many Tripp designs of this vintage, the Medalist 33 can develop significant weather helm if over-canvased, necessitating early reefing of the mainsail to maintain balance. Its deep-V sections allow it to slice through chop without the "pounding" common in modern flat-bottomed hulls, though it will carry more heel than a contemporary wide-beam cruiser.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The transition from the Mk I to the Mk II/III was primarily driven by the need for greater "liveability." While the Mk I featured a sleek, low profile, the Mk II and Mk III introduced a raised cabin house that provides standing headroom (approximately 6'2") for most of the main salon. The interior is a showcase of LeComte’s craftsmanship, typically finished in varnished African mahogany or teak, which creates a warm, traditional atmosphere that is rare in early fiberglass production boats.

The layout is a classic offshore configuration: a forward V-berth with an overhead hatch for ventilation, followed by a full-width head compartment. The main salon features a settee to starboard and often a pilot berth or additional storage to port. The galley is located aft near the companionway for optimal ventilation and to keep the cook near the cockpit. In the Mk III variants, the cabinetry was often refined to include more specialized storage for charts and tools. Because these boats were semi-custom, variations exist; some hulls feature a "dinette" layout, while others retain the traditional narrow settees preferred for sleeping at sea. The use of Airex-cored decks, as noted in the builder’s historical records, provides better thermal and acoustic insulation than solid fiberglass, making the interior quieter and less prone to condensation.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a LeComte Medalist 33 should prioritize a professional survey focusing on the following areas:

• Deck Core Integrity: While LeComte was a pioneer in using Airex foam cores, decades of neglected re-bedding of stanchions, cleats, and the teak toe rail can lead to localized delamination. Use a phenolic hammer to check for "dead" thuds around high-load areas.
• Chainplate Knees: The chainplates on the Medalist are tied into heavy fiberglass knees. While the knees are robust, the bolts passing through the deck can leak, leading to hidden corrosion of the stainless steel chainplates or saturation of the bulkhead timber.
• Original Engine Condition: Many Medalist 33s were originally fitted with the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine. If the vessel still has an Atomic 4, check the manifold for cracks and the cooling passages for scale. Many have been repowered with Yanmar or Westerbeke diesels, which significantly increases the boat's market value.
• Hull-to-Deck Joint: The Medalist uses a robust mechanical joint, but after 50+ years, the sealant can dry out. Look for evidence of water staining on the interior cabinetry behind the settees, which often indicates a leak at the rub rail or toe rail.
• Rudder Post and Packing: The traditional rudder configuration is reliable, but the packing gland and the bronze carrier bearing should be inspected for wear, as play in the rudder can manifest as a vibration at higher speeds.

Community & Resources

The legacy of these Dutch-American hybrids is maintained by a dedicated group of enthusiasts. The LeComte Owners Association (often organized via private technical groups) remains the primary repository for original blueprints and manual scans. While there is no longer an active manufacturer, the Glen Island Yacht Club in New Rochelle, New York, remains a spiritual home for the brand, as it was the original commissioning site for the Medalists arriving from the Netherlands.

The Verdict

The LeComte Medalist 33 Mk II/III is a "connoisseur’s classic," offering a level of aesthetic beauty and structural density that modern production boats struggle to replicate. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who prioritizes sea-kindliness and traditional craftsmanship over interior volume and "dock appeal."

Pros:

• Exquisite interior joinery and heavy-duty bronze hardware.
• Superior tracking and motion in heavy weather.
• Timeless Bill Tripp aesthetic with elegant, sweeping lines.
• Robust construction with high-quality core materials for the era.

Cons:

• Relatively cramped compared to modern 33-footers with wider beams.
• Large overhangs result in a shorter effective waterline and lower top speeds.
• High maintenance requirements for exterior teak and aging systems.
• Potential for weather helm if the sail plan is not managed proactively.