Sailing Performance & Handling
Under sail, the Salona 33 is widely regarded for its responsiveness and "big boat" feel. According to an editorial review by Yachting Monthly, the boat demonstrates exceptional stiffness, largely attributed to the low center of gravity provided by its T-shaped keel options (available in 1.75m or 2.15m drafts). The Sail Area/Displacement ratio is generous, allowing the boat to remain competitive in light winds where many cruisers under 35 feet struggle.
The deck layout is optimized for short-handed sailing, featuring a German mainsheet system that leads back to the helmsman, although the cockpit is wide enough to accommodate a full racing crew. The twin-wheel configuration—a rarity on a 33-foot hull—improves visibility and provides an open thoroughfare to the transom, though some purists argue it sacrifices the tactile feedback of a single large tiller. In a breeze, the boat tracks exceptionally well; the deep rudder provides plenty of bite, preventing the "round-up" tendencies often found in broader-stern French designs of the same era.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Despite its performance-first exterior, the interior of the Salona 33 is surprisingly voluminous. The standard layout features two private cabins—one V-berth forward and a large double aft—and a single head located to starboard. The use of light veneers (often oak or light mahogany) and strategically placed portlights prevents the cabin from feeling claustrophobic. Headroom in the main saloon is approximately 6'1", which is competitive for a performance-oriented hull.
Variations of the 33 were primarily offered in "Performance" or "Comfort" packages rather than structural cabin changes. The Performance variant typically includes carbon fiber reinforcement, high-end deck hardware, and a taller rig. While the Salona 33 lacks the multi-cabin variants found in its larger siblings like the Salona 38 (which offers a three-cabin layout), it maximizes its 10-meter length by utilizing a foldable saloon table and functional galley to accommodate a crew of four for extended coastal trips.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Salona 33 gained significant international traction shortly after its debut, earning a nomination for the European Yacht of the Year award in the "Performance Cruiser" category. Its reputation was further solidified through competitive finishes in Mediterranean regattas, where it often outperformed larger vessels in its class. While it lacks the high-profile YouTube "lifestyle" presence of larger blue-water cruisers, it is a staple in European sailing journals as a benchmark for how to balance IRC rating optimization with cruising amenities.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the following technical areas specific to Salona’s build style:
- Stainless Steel Frame: While the internal frame is a major strength, it should be inspected for any signs of "tea staining" or crevice corrosion, particularly around the keel bolts and mast step. This is rarely a structural failure point but can indicate a history of standing water in the bilge.
- Rudder Bearings: Some early owners reported play in the twin-wheel steering system. Check for any slop in the cables or wear in the self-aligning rudder bearings, which can be exacerbated by the high loads of racing.
- Deck Hardware Bedding: Because the Salona 33 is often campaigned hard in regattas, check for stress cracks around the winches and genoa tracks. Ensure that the vacuum-infused deck remains solid without signs of core compression.
- Electric Propulsion Retrofits: Later models may have been fitted with Oceanvolt electric drives. If viewing an electric version, verify the battery cycle life and the integrity of the regeneration system, as these were pioneering installations for the brand.
Community & Resources
The Salona 33 benefits from a dedicated European following. Owners often coordinate through the Salona Owners Group or national sailing associations in Croatia and Germany. Technical support is primarily facilitated through the factory’s direct communication channels at Salona Yachts in Solin, which maintains an archive of build specifications for hull-specific repairs.
The Verdict
The Salona 33 is a "sailor's sailboat" that refuses to compromise on structural integrity for the sake of interior volume. It is an ideal choice for the owner who spends 70% of their time day-sailing or racing and 30% cruising.
Pros:
- Superior Rigidity: The stainless steel internal grid provides a stiffness usually reserved for custom racing yachts.
- Twin Wheel Layout: Offers excellent visibility and easy cockpit access in a compact size.
- Performance Versatility: Highly competitive in handicap racing without being "stripped out" inside.
Cons:
- Twin Wheel Feedback: Some sailors may find the steering less communicative than a traditional tiller on a boat this small.
- Limited Storage: External lazarette space is sacrificed to accommodate the large aft cabin and twin-wheel mechanics.
- Niche Sizing: At 33 feet, it can feel small for families planning multi-week cruises compared to higher-volume cruisers like the Beneteau Oceanis.
