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Sailboat Specifications

Ericson 33

Fractional Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Ron Holland · Built by Ericson Yachts (Usa) · First built 1981

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LOA 33.50 ft  ·  Beam 11.17 ft  ·  Displacement 9,500.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 573.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Ericson 33 Sailboat

Designed by renowned naval architect Ron Holland, this 33-footer represents Ericson Yachts' venture into performance-oriented cruising during the early 1980s. With only 28 hulls built between 1981 and 1984, the Ericson 33 remains a relatively rare find that combines Holland's racing pedigree with practical cruising capabilities. The boat's modern fin keel and spade rudder configuration delivers responsive handling and solid upwind performance, while the fractional sloop rig provides excellent sail control and balance. At 9,500 pounds displacement with 3,950 pounds of ballast, she offers a reassuring feel in moderate conditions without being overly heavy. The SA/Displacement ratio of 20.51 indicates spirited performance in light to moderate winds. Built during Ericson's quality-focused period, these boats feature solid fiberglass construction and thoughtful interior layouts that maximize the 33-foot length. The low Comfort ratio of 20.47 suggests a boat better suited to coastal cruising and weekend sailing rather than extended offshore passages, though the moderate Capsize screening value of 2.11 indicates reasonable stability for venturing beyond protected waters. Holland's design expertise shines through in the boat's balanced feel and predictable handling characteristics, making it an appealing choice for sailors seeking performance without sacrificing cruising comfort.

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Known Issues View all 8 issues →
High
The fin keel attachment on this hull uses a relatively narrow keel sump; keel bolt corrosion and weeping at the keel-to-hull joint are commonly reported. The hull-to-keel joint should be carefully inspected for cracking or working, which can indicate loose or corroded keel bolts.
High
Chainplate backing plates are known to be undersized on some Ericson hulls of this period, and the chainplates themselves pass through the deck in a manner prone to leaking. Leaks here often lead to hidden rot in any wood blocking and saturation of nearby balsa core.
High
The internal chainplate arrangement routes shroud loads to tabbed-in bulkheads; the tabbing between the bulkhead and hull liner can delaminate over time, especially if chainplate leaks have introduced moisture. Inspect the tabbing at the main bulkhead carefully.
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 33.50 ft / 10.21 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 26.83 ft / 8.18 m
Beam 11.17 ft / 3.40 m
Max Draft 5.92 ft / 1.80 m
Displacement 9,500.00 lb / 4,309 kg
Ballast 3,950.00 lb / 1,792 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 573.00 ft² / 53.23 m²
Headroom 6.12 ft / 1.87 m
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Ron Holland
Builder Ericson Yachts (USA)
First Built 1981
Last Built 1984
Number Built 28
Associations Ericson Yachts Information
Related Sailboats J33 · Mirage 33 · Hunter 33 · Cc 34 · X 342
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Universal
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 21
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ericson 33's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Ericson 33 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 20.51. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Ericson 33's comfort ratio?

The Ericson 33 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 20.47. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Ericson 33 safe for offshore sailing?

The Ericson 33 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.11. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Ericson 33?

The theoretical hull speed of the Ericson 33 is 6.94 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Ericson 33 weigh?

The Ericson 33 has a displacement of 9,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 33.50 ft.

Who designed the Ericson 33?

The Ericson 33 was designed by Ron Holland, first built in 1981.