ISLANDER 33
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 32.58 ft |
| LWL | 24 ft |
| Beam | 10.16 ft |
| Draft | 4.5 ft |
| Displacement | 10,000 lb |
| Ballast | 3,300 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.6 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 36.8 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 12.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 32.3 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 13.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 12.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 465.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 230 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 391 sq ft |
About the ISLANDER 33
The ISLANDER 33 is a raised deck version of the first ISLANDER 32 (1963).
The Islander 33 is a classic American cruiser designed by J. H. McGlasson and built by Wayfarer Yacht Corp. (USA) from 1964–1971. With a displacement of 10000.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 26.51, this vessel is characterized by its substantial build and traditional cruising amenities.
- Best for:
- This boat is well-suited for coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize comfort and stability, as evidenced by the high frequency of solar panel, wind generator, and canvas upgrades aimed at enhancing self-sufficiency.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.89 and a D/L ratio of 322.94, the Islander 33 demonstrates strong offshore stability and heavy displacement characteristics suitable for bluewater passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels from this era include the Cal 34 and O'Day 36, which share similar displacement ranges and masthead sloop configurations, though the Islander 33 distinguishes itself with a higher beam of 10.16 ft.
Direct variant of the ISLANDER 33
Near-identical models — same hull, builder and designer, re-badged or lightly changed. Specs and owner-reported issues are typically shared across the group, so a sister model's page may carry detail this one doesn't.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 32.58ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
11 reported issues across 4 systems for the ISLANDER 33, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a ISLANDER 33? 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 11 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
Which engine powers your ISLANDER 33?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Universal, Atomic 4 — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the ISLANDER 33
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…