Westerly 33 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Westerly 33 is defined by its conservative design and high ballast ratio of approximately 42.2%, making it an exceptionally stiff and stable vessel. With a displacement-to-length ratio of 277, it falls squarely into the heavy cruiser category, meaning it carries its momentum well through a chop but requires a decent breeze to truly come alive. According to technical data from the Westerly Owners Association, the boat was offered with either a ketch or masthead sloop rig. While the ketch rig is often favored for ease of sail handling and balance in heavy weather, the sloop is generally considered more efficient upwind.

Handling is characterized by a predictable, "train-on-tracks" feel, thanks to its partial skeg-hung rudder and moderate fin or bilge keel options. While the bilge keel versions allow for drying out in tidal harbors—a hallmark of the Westerly brand—the fin keel offers slightly better pointing ability. In light airs, the 33 can feel sluggish; however, as the wind climbs above 15 knots, its sea-kindly hull shape and significant displacement provide a comfortable, dry ride that few modern light-displacement yachts can match.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Westerly 33 was a significant departure from earlier models, featuring a rich, all-wood finish—primarily Sapele or Utile—that lends a warm, traditional atmosphere to the living spaces. The layout is centered around a spacious saloon with a convertible double berth to port and ample storage. A notable feature is the separate aft cabin, which, in the standard center-cockpit configuration, provides excellent privacy for owners or guests. This layout offers up to seven berths across three separate cabins, including a forward V-berth and a functional galley and navigation station.

Variations of the hull are closely linked to its successor, the Westerly Discus. The Laurent Giles Archive notes that the Discus (introduced in 1980) utilized the same hull but introduced an "aft-cockpit" bridge deck version, which moved the cockpit further aft to create a more sheltered sun deck area. The original 33, however, is most commonly recognized for its center-cockpit arrangement, which places the helmsman high and provides a secure, enclosed feel while underway.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Westerly 33 is more of a workhorse than a celebrity, its derivative, the Westerly Discus, achieved fame through the vessel Dodo's Delight. Owned by renowned mountaineer and sailor Reverend Bob Shepton, the boat became a fixture in the sailing world for its daring expeditions to Northern Greenland and the Northwest Passage, proving the extreme durability of the Laurent Giles hull design in Arctic conditions.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Headlining (The "Westerly Droop"): The most notorious issue with vintage Westerlys is the failure of the foam-backed vinyl headlining. Over decades, the foam perishes into a sticky orange dust, causing the vinyl to sag. Buyers should check if the headlining has been replaced or professionally "paneled" over.
• Osmosis: Vessels built in the late 1970s and early 1980s may exhibit osmotic blistering. While rarely structural, a survey should confirm if the hull has undergone an epoxy treatment or if active blistering is present in the gelcoat.
• Engine Maintenance: Early models were fitted with Thorneycroft 90 or Mercedes OM 636 diesels. While reliable, parts for the Thorneycroft can be difficult to source. Many 33s have been re-engined with modern Beta or Yanmar units, which adds significant value.
• Keel Bolts & Windows: On bilge-keel versions, the keel-to-hull joints should be inspected for "Westerly smiles" or signs of movement. Additionally, the original alloy-framed windows are prone to leaking and may require resealing or replacement with modern acrylic units.

Community & Resources

The Westerly Owners Association (WOA) is arguably the most active owner group in the world for a defunct builder. They maintain a comprehensive technical wiki and a massive repository of original manuals and parts lists. Technical support for the 33 can also be found through the Westerly Wiki, which serves as a primary source for repair guides and historical specifications.

The Verdict

The Westerly 33 is an "honest" boat—it makes no pretension of being a racing yacht but offers incredible security for family cruising and offshore passage-making.

Pros:

• Extremely robust construction with a high ballast ratio for stability.
• Traditional, warm wood interior with a private aft cabin.
• Excellent community support and a high availability of spare parts.
• Versatile keel options for tidal or deep-water cruising.

Cons:

• Underpowered in light winds (requires motor-sailing or a large genoa).
• High maintenance requirements for original headlinings and windows.
• Slow pointing ability compared to modern performance cruisers.