Nantucket Island 33 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Nantucket Island 33 is characterized by its predictable, sea-kindly motion and impressive directional stability. Much of this performance is credited to Peter Cole's hull geometry, which balances a moderate-to-heavy displacement with a well-profiled keel and a skeg-hung rudder. This configuration allows the boat to track exceptionally well, reducing the workload on the helmsman or autopilot during long passages. According to historical design notes from Peter Cole & Associates, the boat was engineered to maintain a "sweet" helm even when pressed, avoiding the tendency of some heavy cruisers to become "trippy" or develop excessive weather helm in gusts.

The masthead sloop rig is simple and robust, though many owners have retrofitted these vessels as cutters to increase versatility in heavy weather. With a respectable ballast-to-displacement ratio, the Island 33 is stiff and carries its canvas well into the mid-teens of wind speed before requiring a reef. However, like many cruisers of its generation with a substantial wetted surface area, it can be sluggish in light air (under 8 knots). It is a vessel that "wakes up" once the breeze fills in, offering a sense of security and a "big boat" feel that belies its 33-foot length.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nantucket Island 33 is a testament to the "Taiwanese Teak" era, featuring extensive use of solid hardwoods and veneers that create a warm, traditional atmosphere. The layout is optimized for a cruising couple or a small family, typically offering a forward V-berth, a central salon with a drop-leaf table, and a compact yet functional galley. The headroom is notable for a 33-footer, often exceeding 6'2", which contributes to an open, airy feeling despite the dark wood finishes.

While the 33 was the entry-level model in the series, it shared many aesthetic and structural DNA traits with its larger sibling, the Nantucket Island 38. The 38-foot variant, also built on a Peter Cole design, offered a more expansive interior with an additional cabin and increased tankage for long-range cruising. On the Island 33, the variation often lies in the owner-specified finishes at the time of build; some hulls feature a dedicated navigation station to starboard, while others prioritize a larger quarter berth or an expanded galley area.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Nantucket Island 33 requires a diligent survey, as many of these vessels are now entering their fifth decade of service.

1. Teak Deck Integration: Many Nantucket 33s were delivered with thick teak decks screwed directly into a cored fiberglass sub-deck. Over time, the sealant around these thousands of screws can fail, leading to core saturation and interior leaks. Buyers should use a moisture meter and a sounding hammer to check for delamination.
2. Chainplate Corrosion: The stainless steel chainplates are often buried behind cabinetry. Because they are subject to "crevice corrosion" where they pass through the deck, they should be inspected for weeping or rust staining, which often indicates the need for immediate replacement.
3. Osmotic Blistering: Like many yachts built in Taiwan during the 1980s, the Island 33 is known to develop osmotic blisters in the hull. While usually a cosmetic or secondary structural concern, a haul-out for a professional hull inspection is mandatory.
4. Rigging and Spars: The original aluminum spars were heavily built, but the internal wiring and standing rigging should be checked for age-related fatigue, especially if the boat has spent its life in high-UV tropical environments.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Nantucket Island 33 often find community through broader associations dedicated to Peter Cole designs. In Australia, where the designer remains a legendary figure, technical information and sailing anecdotes are frequently shared through local yacht clubs and cruising associations. While there is no single "Nantucket Island" global class association, the Peter Cole & Associates design archives remain a primary touchpoint for those seeking original technical specifications.

The Verdict

The Nantucket Island 33 remains a compelling choice for the traditionalist seeking a rugged, offshore-capable cruiser at an accessible price point.

Pros

• Exceptional Build Quality: Built during the peak of Taiwanese craftsmanship with heavy layup schedules.
• Seaworthy Design: Peter Cole’s hull provides a stable and comfortable ride in rough seas.
• Timeless Aesthetics: The abundance of teak and classic lines appeal to traditional sailors.
• Tracking: Excellent directional stability makes it a joy to sail on long reaches.

Cons

• Maintenance Intensive: The extensive exterior and interior wood require significant upkeep.
• Light Air Performance: Struggles to maintain speed in light winds due to weight and wetted surface.
• Age-Related Systems: Most examples will require updates to plumbing, electrical, and standing rigging.