GIB'SEA 96
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 33.16 ft |
| LWL | 27.25 ft |
| Beam | 10.83 ft |
| Draft | 5.58 ft |
| Displacement | 8,600 lb |
| Ballast | 2,599.8 lb |
| Material | 16.5 |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.0 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 40 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 13.12 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 36.1 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11.8 ft |
| FLforestay | 13.1 ft |
| Mainsail | 492.4 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 262.4 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 446.1 sq ft |
Accommodation
| Cabins | 2 |
| Berths | 4 |
| Heads | 5 |
| Water | 66 L |
| Fuel | 26.4 L |
| CE category | N/A€ |
About the GIB'SEA 96
Keel/centerboard version: BU:4.08' BD:7'. Ballast - 2,800 lbs
Designed by Joubert-Nivelt and built by Gilbert Marine (FRA) from 1984–1987, the Gib'Sea 96 is a compact, heavy-displacement cruiser known for its robust construction. With a displacement of 8600.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 19.18, it offers a stable, motion-dampened ride that prioritizes seakeeping over raw speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideal for coastal cruisers and short-handed sailors seeking a safe, comfortable passage maker with excellent interior volume for its 33.16 ft LOA. Its manageable size and heavy displacement make it particularly well-suited for single-handers or couples who prioritize safety and comfort over racing performance.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 2.12 and a high D/L ratio of 189.74, the Gib'Sea 96 is well-regarded for offshore passages, offering exceptional stability and resistance to capsizing in heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Hallberg-Rassy 33 and the Beneteau First 33, which share similar dimensions and offshore-oriented designs from the mid-1980s. Like the Gib'Sea, these vessels emphasize structural integrity and seaworthiness, though the Gib'Sea's 8600.0 lb displacement often exceeds that of its lighter-displacement contemporaries.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 33.16ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 8 systems for the GIB'SEA 96, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a GIB'SEA 96? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 10 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
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Used sails that fit the GIB'SEA 96
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