Bristol 33

Bristol 33
Built by Bristol Yachts
Production 1968-1971
Number built - ?

Last update 09/09/2007

Herreshoff-designed:

The Bristol 33 is another example of the advanced design Halsey Herreshoff brings to fast ocean racers. The grandson of the famous "Wizard of Bristol" has given the 33 the same modern, fast sailing hull design as his earlier success the Alerion. The 33 reflects the considerable tank testing and sailing experience Halsey Herreshoff has accumulated on boats of similar design such as the Alerion. It has the same low wetted surface, the same high aspect rig for tunnel tested sailing effiency and speed, the same low hull profile for minimum wind resistance. By mounting the engine and batteries over the lead ballast, the designer has in effect, increased the ballast displacement ratio.

Flexible Main Cabin:

In the main cabin, you can have either a convertible dinette or upper and lower berths on port side. Standard upper and lower berths on starboard. The 33 has plenty of lockers and drawer space. Its thwartship head provides complete privacy between the forward stateroom and the main cabin. Two large V-berths with shelves over them are in the forward stateroom. Also, one opening port and an opening hatch. Nylon pile covers the hull comfortably.

Excellent Cruising Accommodations:

Thwartship galley packs in plenty of convenience yet leaves you plenty of room. Includes seven berths with foam mattresses; navigator's table; flush two-burner alcohol stove with cover; cold water hand pump; large ice chest; many drawers and lockers; large stowage area aft of sink for hanging wet gear, etc. (hot and cold pressurize water optional with sink) Passage from cockpit to lounge area berth or to forward head is clear. And besides the usual fixtures, head includes several drawers, one opening port, a hanging locker, and a large shower (optional). Also optional pressurized hot and cold water system for shower and wash basin. Mahogany satin finish for custom look in below deck woodwork. Main cabin bulkheads with satin finished mahogany or Formica. Optional mahogany ceiling on hull in either main cabin or forward cabin. Other features include teak cabin floor (veneer); cabin table; molded cabin floor throughout boat with wood inserts.

Bristol 33 Salon

Strong Hull and Deck:

Molded from the strongest material on the market: molded high-impact fiberglass reinforced polyester resin(largely woven roving). Thicknesses vary to suit structural demands. Deckhouse, deck and cockpit are integrally molded. Contrasting non-skid pattern molded into deck, seats, and cabin top. Cowels provided. Two dorade vents molded into deck. Hatch in forward stateroom opens fore and aft. Exterior trim is teak.

Weather Tough Deck Hardware:

All deck hardware is stainless steel, chrome-plated bronze, or corrosion-resistant aluminum alloys. Standard equipment includes: anodized aluminum mast & boom; genoa track with block on slide only; anchor roller stemhead; #5 geared sheet winches chrome winches (2); #2 top action main sheet winch (1); #2 top-action halyard winch; traveler and blocks for mainsheet; bow pupit; stern rail; lifelines & stanchions.

Comfortable Cockpit:

Self-bailing. Both hatches scuppered to prevent leaking. Deck layout designed for comfort. If exterior trim is teak...your choice of varnished, sealed or natural.

Heavy-duty Electrical System:

Works from alternator on engine and 12-volt marine battery. Bow, stern and side running lights; spreader lights (pair); masthead light; interior lights(7); dockside power (110-volt shore power (4) outlets); extra battery with 4 way switch.(optional)

Engine Installation:

30 HP Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine with proper control equipment. Two bladed solid sailboat propeller, shaft runs in Bristol-type rubber mounted shaft log. On cockpit side: throttle and reverse controls, connected to the engine with rattle proof ball joints. On the aft side of the cabinhouse: water temperature, oil pressure, and ammeter gauges. Oversized, nonbreakable fule filter. Coast Guard approved engine room exhaust blower as well as natural forced ventilation. Fuel tank has 25 gallon capacity.

Additional features:

Standard features not mentioned previously include: hot&cold pressure water system (with shower); three burner stove with oven; vinyl mattresses; bilge pump (manual); bilge pump (electic); 5" Ritchie compass; sink; ice chest; and other items shown on plan and elevation drawings.

Bristol 33 Specifications:

Designer:    Halsey C. Herreshoff
Builder:      Bristol Yachts
LOA:         33' 7"
LWL:         25' 9"
Beam:        10' 3"
Draft:(keel)  5' 6"
Displacement: 11,500#
Sail Area:  486 sq. ft.

Bristol 33 lines

Bristol 33 sailplan

All Documentation generously provided by Paul Pfluger, his email address can be found on the Owners link page. Other Herreshoff designs include Bristols 22,26,29,30, all were were production concurrently with the Bristol 33.

This page was developed with the idea of exchanging information between Bristol owners, if you want to know how to do something or have any other questions this will provide a means of contacting others. Additionally if anyone has suggested links or information which they feel may benefit others, feel free to contact me.