Westerly Regatta 330 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Regatta 330 benefits significantly from its Ed Dubois DNA, utilizing the same hull form that made the Westerly Storm 33 a favorite among club racers and serious offshore cruisers. Unlike the heavier displacement cruisers in Westerly’s back-catalog, the 330 features a more refined entry and a flatter run aft, allowing it to perform admirably in light airs while remaining stiff and predictable when the breeze freshens. According to technical data preserved by the Westerly Owners Association, the vessel typically carries a fractional sloop rig, which provides more control over mainsail shape compared to the older masthead configurations.

On the water, the 330 is known for its balanced helm and "sea-kindly" motion. While many were fitted with a deep fin keel for maximum upwind efficiency, the model was also available in a twin-keel (bilge keel) configuration. While the twin-keel variant loses a few degrees of pointing ability, it remains one of the few performance-oriented hulls of this era capable of drying out upright in tidal harbors. Owner anecdotes often highlight the boat's ability to maintain high average speeds on cross-channel passages, often outperforming modern "fat-bottomed" cruisers when beating into a chop.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The influence of Ken Freivokh is most apparent below deck, where the Regatta 330 departed from the traditional "dark wood and corners" approach of earlier Westerlys. The interior features a more open-plan feel with curved cabinetry and lighter wood finishes—often ash or light oak—to maximize the sense of space. The layout typically includes two private cabins: a forward V-berth and a surprisingly large aft cabin situated under the cockpit sole, which offers significantly better headroom than the older Falcon or Seahawk models.

The main saloon utilizes a central folding table flanked by settees that can double as sea berths. One notable variation within the Regatta range involves the navigation station and galley; the 330 emphasizes a "Mediterranean" style with improved ventilation and a larger "sugar scoop" stern for easy water access. This model is a direct sibling to the Regatta 31 and the larger Regatta 370, all of which shared this design language of integrated deck lines and modernized interiors. However, the 330 is often cited as the "sweet spot" in the range, offering a meaningful increase in volume over the 31 without the higher berthing costs of the 370.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Regatta 330 was built during a period of high construction standards, buyers should be aware of several specific areas during inspection:

1. Headlining Sag: Like nearly all Westerlys from this era, the foam-backed vinyl headlining is prone to "the Westerly droop" as the foam degrades over time. Prospective buyers should check for areas where the fabric has detached from the fiberglass.
2. Keel-to-Hull Joint: On twin-keel versions, the stresses of drying out can occasionally lead to weeping at the joint or "smile" cracks at the leading edge. While usually cosmetic, a history of hard groundings should be investigated by a surveyor.
3. Engine Maintenance: Most units were originally fitted with Volvo Penta 2000 series engines (such as the 2003). While reliable, these engines have specific "gotchas," including potential wear in the splines between the engine and the gearbox.
4. Osmosis: Though Westerly improved their resin application in the 90s, no hull of this age is entirely immune. A moisture meter check of the hull below the waterline is standard practice.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and historical documentation for this model is the Westerly Owners Association. This group maintains an extensive archive of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and a "knowledge base" compiled by hundreds of long-term owners. Because the Regatta 330 shares a hull with the Storm 33, technical advice regarding the underwater profile and rig is abundant.

The Verdict

The Westerly Regatta 330 is a rare find that successfully bridges the gap between old-world British build quality and modern yacht design. It remains a top choice for sailors who want a boat that is fast enough to be rewarding but sturdy enough for serious coastal or offshore work.

Pros:

• Excellent sailing performance thanks to the Ed Dubois hull design.
• Modern, airy interior styling by Ken Freivokh that has aged better than many 90s rivals.
• Strong build quality with high-grade deck hardware and joinery.
• Available in both fin and twin-keel configurations for varying cruising needs.

Cons:

• Interior headlining will eventually require replacement if not already addressed.
• Limited production numbers compared to the earlier Storm or Centaur models make them harder to find on the second-hand market.
• The original Volvo Penta engines may be nearing the end of their service life if not meticulously maintained.