Nonsuch 33 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing experience of the Nonsuch 33 is defined by its simplicity and surprising power. Without a headsail to manage, the skipper can tack the boat simply by turning the wheel; there are no winches to grind or sheets to sweat during a change of course. The boat’s performance is bolstered by a Displacement/Length ratio that leans toward the heavier side of "medium," providing a stable, sea-kindly motion that is particularly reassuring for coastal cruising.

Off the wind, the Nonsuch 33 is remarkably fast, often outperforming sloops of similar length due to its massive, unobstructed sail area. The wishbone boom acts as a self-vanging system, maintaining sail shape across a wide range of wind angles. However, handling the boat requires a specific technique; because the mast is unstayed and flexible, the sail’s draft can be flattened by increasing "choker" tension on the wishbone. In heavy air, the boat’s 12-foot, 6-inch beam provides significant initial stability, though the large mainsail demands early reefing—typically at 15 to 18 knots—to keep the helm light. According to technical documentation from the International Nonsuch Association, the 33 tracks more effectively than the original 30 thanks to a redesigned keel and a slightly more balanced hull form that reduces the tendency to round up in strong puffs.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nonsuch 33 is where the design’s "catboat" geometry pays the greatest dividends. Because the mast is stepped at the bow, the main bulkhead is moved significantly forward, opening up a cavernous salon. The 33-foot model typically features a layout that includes a dedicated forward stateroom with a large double berth offset to port, a significant upgrade in privacy over the "Classic" open layouts found in smaller siblings like the Nonsuch 26 or 30.

The main salon is characterized by its extraordinary width and headroom, often exceeding 6' 4". The galley is L-shaped and positioned near the companionway for optimal ventilation, featuring deep sinks and ample refrigeration. A hallmark of the 33's refinement is the head arrangement, which often includes a separate stall shower—a luxury rarely seen on 33-foot monohulls of this era. While Hinterhoeller produced the 33 primarily in a single "Ultra" style configuration, small variations in teak cabinetry and Corian countertop selections exist depending on the production year. The boat's sibling models, the Nonsuch 324 and the larger Nonsuch 36, share this "apartment-on-the-water" philosophy, but the 33 is frequently cited by the community as the "sweet spot" in terms of handling versus living space.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Nonsuch 33 has enjoyed a strong editorial presence since its debut, frequently appearing in retrospectives on innovative North American boat building. It is a staple in the "Best Used Boat" lists of major sailing publications due to its build quality. The model is also a central figure in the International Nonsuch Association literature, which documents the vessel's participation in major coastal rallies and its reputation for being the preferred choice for retiring professional sailors who wish to continue cruising without the physical strain of traditional rigging.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Nonsuch 33 should focus their inspections on the unique hardware that defines the model. While Hinterhoeller’s construction was generally superior, the age of these vessels necessitates specific checks:

• Mast Step and Base: Because the unstayed mast is under immense leverage, the mast step area should be inspected for stress fractures or signs of compression.
• Carbon Fiber Fatigue: While the carbon fiber masts were over-engineered, older masts can show UV degradation or "crazing" in the resin. Professional inspection is recommended to ensure the laminate remains sound.
• Balsa Core Decks: Like many boats from the Hinterhoeller/C&C era, the Nonsuch 33 uses balsa-cored decks. Water intrusion around the stanchions, bow pulpit, and wishbone hangers can lead to core rot if not properly re-bedded.
• Wishbone Hangers: The hardware that attaches the wishbone boom to the mast is a high-load point. Check for wear in the stainless steel pins and the "cradle" where the boom pivots.
• Engine Access: While the engine is generally well-maintained by this owner demographic, the 33’s engine space can be tight for major repairs, so checking the condition of the Universal or Westerbeke diesel and its motor mounts is critical.

Community & Resources

The Nonsuch 33 is supported by one of the most active and technically proficient owner groups in the maritime world. The International Nonsuch Association maintains an exhaustive archive of technical manuals, rigging guides, and historical data. This community is vital for owners, as they provide the primary source for sourcing specialized parts like wishbone blocks and mast-collars that are no longer in commercial production.

The Verdict

The Nonsuch 33 is an outlier in the used boat market—a vessel that prioritizes ease of use and livability without sacrificing the structural integrity required for serious coastal voyaging.

Pros:

• Simplicity: No headsails to flake or winch, making it the premier choice for solo sailors or couples.
• Interior Volume: Offers the living space and storage of a 36- to 38-foot sloop.
• Build Quality: Hinterhoeller’s use of high-end materials and robust fiberglass layup has aged exceptionally well.
• Resale Value: Due to their niche appeal and loyal following, Nonsuch models tend to hold their value better than mass-produced sloops.

Cons:

• Windward Performance: While capable, the unstayed cat-rig will not point as high as a modern fin-keel sloop with a tight-luffed jib.
• Reefing Requirement: The large mainsail can be a handful if not reefed early; the boat becomes heavy on the helm in high winds.
• Specialized Rigging: Finding riggers familiar with unstayed carbon fiber masts and wishbone booms can be challenging in some regions.