Tavana 33 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tavana 33 was designed with the shallow waters of the Florida Keys and the Bahamas in mind, featuring a shoal-draft hull that typically draws only about 3 feet with the centerboard up. This design characteristic makes it an exceptional choice for thin-water gunkholing where deeper drafted fin-keel boats cannot venture. Under sail, the Tavana 33 is characterized by its heavy displacement (approximately 12,000 lbs) and a relatively conservative sail area-to-displacement ratio, which translates to a stable, "stiff" motion at sea.

Most Tavana 33s were rigged as yawls, a configuration favored by Dooley Glander for its versatility and balance. The mizzen sail allows for various "jigger and staysail" combinations, which are invaluable for maintaining control in heavy weather or keeping the bow into the wind while at anchor. Handling is described by many owners as deliberate and forgiving; while it is not a light-air racer, the boat tracks exceptionally well thanks to its long keel. According to the historical records preserved by Tiki Water Sports, the successor to Glander Boats, the hull’s design was intended for serious cruising rather than speed, emphasizing sea-kindliness and a dry ride even in choppy coastal conditions.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Because Glander Boats Inc. specialized in selling unfinished hulls or "component" kits, the interior of a Tavana 33 is rarely identical to another. While the factory offered a standard layout—typically featuring a V-berth forward, a compact head, and a main salon with a galley and settee—the final execution depended heavily on the original owner’s craftsmanship.

The hull's 33-foot length and generous beam allow for a surprisingly commodious living space for a vessel of its era. Owners who purchased the "Deluxe" kit often utilized extensive teak or mahogany joinery, while others opted for more utilitarian, low-maintenance finishes. Headroom is adequate for most sailors, though it may feel slightly more enclosed than modern high-volume production boats due to the traditional narrow cabin trunk. Sibling models from Glander, such as the Cay 23 (often cited as a derivative of the Herreshoff Prudence), share this philosophy of owner-finished interiors, though the Tavana 33 remains the only model in the lineup offering true multi-cabin blue-water accommodations.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tavana 33 must approach the vessel with a "kit boat" mindset, meaning the quality of the systems and interior finish is not a reflection of the builder, but of the individual who completed the boat.

1. Variability in System Installation: Unlike a factory-finished Pearson or Cape Dory, the wiring, plumbing, and engine installations on a Tavana 33 can range from professional-grade to amateurish. A thorough survey of the electrical panel and through-hull fittings is mandatory.
2. Centerboard Trunk and Pennant: Given its shoal-draft design, the centerboard mechanism is a high-wear area. Inspect the pennant (the cable used to raise/lower the board) for fraying and the trunk itself for signs of delamination or blockage.
3. Deck Core Condition: Like many fiberglass boats of the 1960s and 70s, the decks are often cored with wood. Check for soft spots, particularly around the chainplates and the mast step, where water may have egressed over decades.
4. Mizzen Mast Step: On yawl-rigged versions, the mizzen mast step is often located in a high-stress area near the cockpit. Inspect the support structure beneath the step for compression or rot.
5. Chainplate Anchors: On older hulls, the points where the shrouds meet the hull/deck should be inspected for "crevice corrosion" or leaks that could compromise the bulkheads.

Community & Resources

The primary steward of the Glander legacy is Tiki Water Sports in Tavernier, Florida. Still owned and operated by the Chester family who purchased the company from Dooley Glander in 1982, they remain a vital link for owners seeking historical context or technical advice on the original hull molds. While no formal national class association exists, the Tavana 33 community is highly active in Florida-based sailing forums and classic plastic enthusiast groups, where owners trade tips on restoring these pioneering fiberglass hulls.

The Verdict

The Tavana 33 is a "sailor’s sailboat" that rewards those who appreciate traditional lines and the satisfaction of a hand-built vessel. It is an ideal platform for a couple looking to cruise the Bahamas or the Florida coast on a budget, provided they are willing to perform the maintenance required of a vintage boat.

Pros:

• Exceptional Draft: The 3-foot shoal draft is perfect for exploring shallow coastal regions.
• Structural Integrity: Robust, over-built fiberglass hulls from a pioneering era.
• Versatile Rig: The yawl configuration offers excellent balance and heavy-weather options.
• Uniqueness: Each interior is a custom reflection of its original owner’s vision.

Cons:

• Inconsistent Finish: Interior quality and system layouts vary wildly between hulls.
• Aging Systems: Most examples will require significant electrical and plumbing upgrades.
• Speed: Not a performance-oriented boat; requires a stiff breeze to truly come alive.