Peterson Contention 33 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Contention 33 are defined by its IOR heritage, featuring a fine entry, a distinct "bustle" near the rudder, and a deep fin keel. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the performance end of the spectrum, the boat is exceptionally stiff and powers through a chop with minimal fuss. Owners frequently report that the vessel feels "on rails" when sailing upwind, a trait attributed to Doug Peterson's ability to balance the underwater profile better than many of his contemporaries.

Under sail, the boat exhibits a high sail area-to-displacement ratio, making it surprisingly light-footed in air under 10 knots, yet it remains composed when the breeze freshens. Unlike many broader-stern modern designs, the Contention 33 does not "trip" over its own bow when pressed hard, though like all IOR-era boats, it requires active trimming of the large genoa to maintain optimal balance. The spade rudder provides high-precision helm feedback, though it demands a watchful eye when running deep downwind in heavy seas to avoid the rhythmic rolling typical of the era's pinched sterns.

Interior Comfort & Variations

True to the Southern Ocean Shipyard ethos, the interior of the Contention 33 is far more substantial than the stripped-out racing machines that inspired it. The layout is traditional, typically featuring a forward V-berth, a central saloon with settee berths, a functional galley to starboard, and a dedicated navigation station to port. Because Southern Ocean Shipyard often catered to a more discerning clientele, the joinery is typically finished in high-quality teak or mahogany, providing a sense of warmth and permanence.

Variations in the interior often depend on whether the original owner prioritized racing or cruising. Some hulls were fitted with "pilot berths" outboard of the main saloon settees to provide secure sleeping quarters at sea, while others replaced these with storage lockers and bookshelves for a more open, "live-aboard" feel. Headroom is generous for a 33-footer of this vintage, generally hovering around 6 feet in the main cabin. The Contention 33 was the larger sibling to the Contention 30, and the extra three feet of length were largely dedicated to a more spacious cockpit and an improved aft quarter-berth arrangement, which makes the 33 a much more viable coastal cruiser for families.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Contention 33's lineage is inextricably linked to the One Ton Cup. The design is a direct descendant of the Peterson-designed Contention, which helped cement Doug Peterson’s status as a premier naval architect. While the production 33 was modified for weight and comfort, its association with the "golden era" of 1970s offshore racing ensures its frequent mention in historical retrospectives of the IOR period. The model often appears in regional UK sailing publications, such as Yachting Monthly, where it is frequently cited as a "used boat bargain" for those seeking a vessel that can still outpace modern production cruisers on a beat.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Contention 33 with a focus on its structural "bones," as these boats were built to be driven hard.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many 1970s builds, the decks are often balsa-cored. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a percussion "tap test" around stanchion bases and the mast step to check for delamination or soft spots caused by water ingress.
• Rudder and Bearings: The spade rudder is a high-performance feature but is subject to stress. Inspect the rudder stock for play and check the internal structure for any signs of "wicking" or osmosis in the blade itself.
• Chainplate Anchors: Given the high rig loads these boats can carry, the attachment points for the chainplates should be inspected for signs of movement or stress crazing in the surrounding fiberglass.
• Original Engine Condition: Many units were originally fitted with Bukh or early Yanmar diesels. If the engine is original, check for cooling passage blockage and general fatigue, as many of these hulls are now onto their second or third repower.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the Southern Ocean Shipyard community, which often overlaps with broader Peterson design groups. While there is no single-model "Contention 33 Class Association" currently maintaining a massive digital footprint, technical support is frequently found through the Doug Peterson Design enthusiasts' networks. Owners often trade technical drawings and restoration tips through heritage sailing forums based in the UK and Northern Europe, where the majority of these hulls remain in service.

The Verdict

The Contention 33 is a "sailor’s sailboat," offering a level of tactile feedback and windward performance that is rarely found in modern, high-volume cruisers. It is a testament to the build quality of Southern Ocean Shipyard that so many of these vessels remain in active use, both as club racers and rugged coastal explorers.

Pros:

• Exceptional Upwind Performance: A true thoroughbred that excels in pointing high and maintaining speed in a seaway.
• Robust Construction: Built by SOS to standards that often exceeded Lloyds requirements for offshore work.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Features the classic, aggressive lines of the 1970s racing circuit that still turn heads in a marina.

Cons:

• IOR Handling Quirks: Can be prone to "death rolls" downwind in heavy following seas if not handled with care.
• Maintenance Intensive: The age of the fleet means most examples will require updates to standing rigging, electronics, and potentially the deck core.
• Narrow Stern: Compared to modern 33-footers, the cockpit and aft interior space can feel cramped.