j33 sailboat review

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The Fascinating Features of the J33 Sailboat

j33 sailboat specs

The j33 sailboat is a remarkable vessel designed for both racing enthusiasts and cruising adventurers. With its sleek and agile construction, this sailboat is built to deliver an exciting and thrilling experience on the water.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and carefully crafted to withstand the toughest conditions, the j33 sailboat offers impressive specifications that set it apart from its counterparts. Here are some key features that make the j33 sailboat an exceptional choice:

j33 sailboat review

The j33 sailboat is a true gem on the water, combining power, speed, and elegance in a single vessel. Constructed with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, this sailboat captures the hearts of sailing enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor searching for a thrilling adventure or a beginner looking to explore the wonders of the sea, the j33 is here to embrace every challenge with grace.

Designed with performance in mind, the j33 sailboat boasts an array of fascinating features that set it apart from its competitors. Let’s dive into some of these remarkable aspects:

j33 sailboat pros and cons

The j33 sailboat is a sleek and stylish vessel that offers a thrilling sailing experience. Like any boat, it has its share of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of owning a j33 sailboat.

• Excellent performance: The j33 sailboat is renowned for its exceptional sailing performance. Its design and construction allow for impressive speed and maneuverability, making it a favorite among sailing enthusiasts.
• Comfortable interior: Despite its compact size, the j33 sailboat offers a surprisingly comfortable interior. The ergonomically designed cabin provides ample seating and sleeping space, ensuring a pleasant experience on long journeys.
• Easy to handle: Due to its well-thought-out design, the j33 sailboat is relatively easy to handle, even for less experienced sailors. Its responsive steering and intuitive controls make sailing a breeze.
• Limited storage space: One drawback of the j33 sailboat is its limited storage space. While it can accommodate the essentials, larger items may need to be left behind or stored externally.
• Requires skilled crew: To fully harness the potential of the j33 sailboat, a skilled and experienced crew is necessary. It may not be the best choice for beginner sailors who are still developing their sailing skills.
• Higher maintenance costs: As a high-performance sailboat, the j33 requires regular maintenance and upkeep. Its advanced features and materials may result in higher costs compared to more basic sailboats.

j33 sailboat interior photos

Step on board the j33 Sailboat and embark on an extraordinary journey across the open waters. As you explore the interior, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of elegance and modern design. Let these captivating photos guide you through the remarkable features that await you inside this exceptional vessel.

1. Spacious Cabin: The j33 Sailboat offers a remarkably roomy cabin, providing ample space for relaxation and overnight stays. With its well-thought-out layout and intelligent design, you’ll be amazed by the generous headroom and comfortable seating areas, perfect for cozy conversations or simply enjoying the stunning views through the large windows.

2. Sleek Galley: The sailboat’s galley is a true gem for aspiring chefs or anyone who appreciates the convenience of cooking onboard. Equipped with modern appliances, including a stainless steel stove, a refrigerator, and a sink with hot and cold water, preparing delicious meals becomes a breeze. The ample storage space allows you to stock up on provisions for extended trips, ensuring you have everything you need for a delightful culinary experience at sea.

j33 sailboat specifications

The j33 Sailboat is undoubtedly a remarkable vessel designed for sailing enthusiasts seeking high-performance and thrilling experiences on the water. This sailing yacht boasts a range of specifications that make it stand out in the world of competitive sailing. With superior handling and cutting-edge technology, the j33 offers a truly unique and exhilarating sailing experience.

Built with quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, the j33 features a sleek and modern design, combining elegance and functionality. Its streamlined hull, made from high-strength composite materials, ensures excellent stability and responsiveness on the water. Equipped with a powerful yet efficient sail plan and a high-performance keel, the j33 excels in both upwind and downwind sailing, guaranteeing an exceptional performance in all conditions, from calm seas to rough waters.

j33 sailboat layout

The j33 sailboat is renowned for its remarkable layout that offers an exceptional sailing experience. Designed with a keen attention to detail, every element of the j33’s layout maximizes functionality and comfort, catering to both solo sailors and racing crews alike.

The cockpit of the j33 is intelligently designed, providing ample space for crew members to move around and handle various tasks during navigation. The ergonomic layout ensures easy maneuverability and promotes efficient teamwork. The cockpit features a wide companionway, allowing for easy access to the interior of the boat, and a spacious seating area with comfortable cushions, ensuring a pleasant sailing experience even during extended trips.

j33 sailboat data

The j33 sailboat is a remarkable vessel known for its exceptional performance and elegant design. Built with top-notch craftsmanship, the j33 embodies the perfect balance between speed and comfort. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a beginner looking for an exhilarating experience on the water, the j33 is a sailing masterpiece that will surely captivate you.

Equipped with advanced technology and precision engineering, the j33 sailboat offers a range of fascinating features that make it stand out in the boating world. Let’s explore some of its key features:

j33 sailboat diagram

The j33 sailboat is an exceptional vessel designed for the adventurous and passionate sailors. With its sleek and agile structure, this sailboat offers an unparalleled sailing experience. Let’s delve into its fascinating features:

• Carbon Fiber Mast: The j33 sailboat boasts a lightweight yet sturdy carbon fiber mast, enabling excellent maneuverability and speed. This advanced material enhances the boat’s performance while withstanding the test of time.
• Deep Keel: Equipped with a deep keel, the j33 ensures exceptional stability, allowing sailors to confidently navigate even rough waters. The keel grants the sailboat impressive balance and upwind capabilities, making it an ideal choice for racing enthusiasts.
• Spacious Cockpit: The sailboat’s cockpit has been intelligently designed to provide both comfort and functionality. Its spacious layout accommodates a small crew effortlessly, allowing for effortless communication and smooth maneuvering while at sea.

j33 sailboat for sale

If you have been dreaming of owning a sailboat that combines exceptional speed, unmatched performance, and remarkable design, then look no further than the J33 Sailboat. It is an exquisite vessel that promises an unforgettable sailing experience for both seasoned sailors and newcomers alike. Crafted with precision and innovation, the J33 Sailboat is a true masterpiece of engineering.

Equipped with top-of-the-line features, the J33 Sailboat guarantees an exhilarating and comfortable journey on the open waters. Its sleek and modern design not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also ensures enhanced speed and performance. The robust construction using advanced lightweight materials allows for optimal agility and quick maneuvers, making it ideal for spirited racing or leisurely cruising.

Q: What is the j33 sailboat? A: The j33 sailboat is a highly regarded yacht known for its exceptional performance and desirable features. It was designed by Rodney Johnstone in 1984 and quickly gained popularity among sailing enthusiasts.

Q: What are the key features of the j33 sailboat? A: The j33 sailboat boasts several fascinating features that make it stand out. Some notable features include its lightweight construction, responsive handling, and sleek design. It also features a spacious cockpit, comfortable cabin accommodations, and excellent upwind performance.

Q: What is the construction material used for the j33 sailboat? A: The hull and deck of the j33 sailboat are constructed using a combination of fiberglass and Kevlar, a high-strength synthetic fiber. This combination ensures a robust yet lightweight structure, allowing for exceptional speed and agility on the water.

Q: How does the j33 sailboat handle in various weather conditions? A: The j33 sailboat is designed to handle a wide range of weather conditions with ease. Its responsive steering and balanced sail plan make it suitable for both light winds and heavy gusts. The boat excels particularly in upwind sailing, allowing for competitive racing and enjoyable cruising experiences.

Q: Can you describe the interior accommodations of the j33 sailboat? A: Despite its focus on performance, the j33 sailboat offers comfortable and practical interior accommodations. It typically includes a cozy cabin with comfortable berths, a small galley equipped with the essentials, and a compact head. The cabin design ensures a comfortable overnight stay or extended cruising.

Q: What makes the j33 sailboat an excellent choice for racing? A: The j33 sailboat is often favored for competitive racing due to its outstanding performance characteristics. Its lightweight construction and efficient sail plan enable it to accelerate quickly and maintain impressive speeds. The boat’s responsive handling allows for easy maneuverability around the racecourse, providing an exciting and rewarding racing experience.

Q: Can the j33 sailboat be easily sailed by a small crew? A: Yes, the j33 sailboat is known for its ease of handling and can be sailed by a small crew. Its well-designed deck layout, efficient sail controls, and responsive steering make it easy to control. This versatility allows for both relaxed cruising with friends and thrilling adventures with limited crew members.

Q: How does the j33 sailboat compare to other boats in its class? A: The j33 sailboat stands out among its competitors for its exceptional combination of speed, agility, and comfort. Its innovative design, coupled with excellent craftsmanship, makes it highly sought after in the sailing community. While the j33 sailboat may not be the largest or the most luxurious, its performance-oriented characteristics make it a favorite among racing enthusiasts.

Q: Is the j33 sailboat suitable for long-distance cruising? A: While primarily designed for racing, the j33 sailboat can also be used for comfortable and enjoyable long-distance cruising. Its comfortable cabin accommodations, reliable construction, and impressive upwind performance make it a suitable choice for those seeking extended sailing adventures.

Q: Are there any notable upgrades or versions of the j33 sailboat available? A: Over the years, various upgrades and versions of the j33 sailboat have been introduced to cater to specific needs and preferences. These may include modifications to the rigging, sail controls, or interior layout. It is advisable to consult with a reputable dealer or expert to explore the available options and determine the most suitable version for individual requirements.

To Wrap It Up

In conclusion, the j33 sailboat boasts a remarkable array of features that make it a true masterpiece on the water. Its sleek design and advanced hydrodynamics provide effortless speed and agility, while the carbon-fiber construction ensures unmatched durability. The innovative interior layout offers a harmonious blend of comfort and functionality, perfect for both racing and cruising enthusiasts. With its cutting-edge technology and meticulous craftsmanship, the j33 sailboat represents the pinnacle of sailing excellence. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a newcomer to the sport, the j33 sailboat is sure to captivate and inspire, beckoning you to embark on unforgettable seafaring adventures. Experience the thrill and serenity that only the j33 sailboat can deliver, and unlock a world of possibilities on the open seas.

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• Sailboat Guide

J/33 is a 33 ′ 5 ″ / 10.2 m monohull sailboat designed by Rod Johnstone and built by J Boats between 1988 and 1991.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

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The J33 is a 33.5ft masthead sloop designed by Johnstone and built in fiberglass by J Boats between 1988 and 1991.

51 units have been built..

The J33 is a light sailboat which is a very high performer. It is stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a racing boat. There is a very short water supply range.

J33 for sale elsewhere on the web:

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Offshore 33 (I think)

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Helllo, I'm new to the forum and a new (to me) Offshore 33 owner. I just purchased an insurance boat that they had listed as a Clearwater Custom 32.2. My research has led me to believe that this is the Offshore 33. Please correct me if I'm wrong. Anyway, it is missing the forward mast/boom as it was broke during a storm. Other mast is laying on deck. My question (one of many) is how hard is it going to be to find a replacement mast? Or could I just turn it into a single mast forward, like the Nonsuch 33? I assume the diameter of the mast would be the same. What do you think? Thanks for your input.  

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Two versions of the Offshore 33 to choose from: 1. A Cheoy Lee designed (1971)mast head KETCH: OFFSHORE 33 (CHEOY LEE) SLOOP sailboat specifications and details on sailboatdata.com , & OFFSHORE 33 (CHEOY LEE) sailboat specifications and details on sailboatdata.com 2. A Water Scott designed (1978) Cat-Ketch: OFFSHORE 33 (SCOTT) sailboat specifications and details on sailboatdata.com The Cat-Ketch rig is unstayed ("wishbone" type boom system, w/ no rigging). Looks pretty much like the one you bought. Its not going to sail very well at all with just one mast. A 'good rigger', will be invaluable in locating and installing the replacement. Good Luck with your new boat!!!  

I'm afraid that a new carbon mast for your unstayed rig will be obscenely expensive. Not sure if you can move the aft mast to replace the forward rig. You might be able to sail with the forward rig only but not with aft rig only. I would start looking for a used carbon fiber mast right away. And prepare to drive long way to get it.  

The masts in these were aluminum not carbon. Find a used light pole from a parking lot as they spec about the same as the originals. Sent from my Pixel C using Tapatalk  

Bleemus said: The masts in these were aluminum not carbon. Find a used light pole from a parking lot as they spec about the same as the originals. Click to expand...

Go with Rich's suggestion here. Hire a rigger to figure out how to fix this right. Whatever alterations you make to rig the boat a different way than it was designed will end up costing you more. Depending on how much damaged the storm caused be prepared to spend a lot of money getting the boat sailing again. You might be able to save some money by doing some of the legwork for the rigger but you should have someone to make sure you do it right and then rig it for you. It looks like a lot of boat to be sitting on only two axles.  

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J BOATS J 33 similar search results:

JEANNEAU SUN ODYSSEY 32.2

The j boats j/33 shown below has been sold:, j boats j/33.

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• De Valk Sint Annaland The Netherlands
• +31 166 601 000
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“Jimp” is an easy to handle, fast & strong J-Boats/ J-33, Rod Johnstone design and built at TPI in Rhode Island, USA. Mostly used as a fast cruising yacht with a 4 person family. Still going strong for weekends and cruising holiday’s, racing around the cans or in offshore sailing, double handed and with full crew. In the hands of her first owner who kept her in good condition, ready for new adventure’s. She can be visited 7 days a week at De Valk Yacht Brokers in Sint Annaland.

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• Sailboat Reviews

Built on a heritage of performance, this 43-foot sprit-boat offers a classic interior, stellar speed, and smooth handling. Despite a few teething problems-and a lofty price-it appears to have found acceptance in the market place.

We like a turn of speed now and again. And we like it even better if that celerity is delivered in a controllable, comfortable package that inspires confidence not only for the operator, but for others who ride aboard. All of that applies to the new J/133 introduced by J/Boats last year.

History From a fledgling backyard operation formed in 1975, J/Boats has matured to attain a prominent role in the boatbuilding world as the designer and marketer of boats that, coupled with state-of-the-art construction methods at TPI, enjoy nearly universal market appeal.

Once an ad salesman for a sailing magazine, Rod Johnstone began designing sailboats following completion of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design correspondence course. In 1976, his first effort produced Ragtime, a 24-foot prototype built in the familys garage that evolved into the J/24, now one of the most popular recreational sloops in the world. When Everett Pearson, owner of TPI and a bastion of the industry, recognized the boat’s potential and agreed to produce it in return for the U.S. building rights, the company was in business. The first boats were produced in an old textile mill near Fall River, MA.

At the time, Bob Johnstone, Rod’s brother, was a marketing officer at AMF/Alcort, which manufactured the Sunfish. In 1977, following an unsuccessful attempt to convince AMF to produce a boat like the J/24, he joined Rod as the companys marketing guru and co-owner, and the duo has never looked back. Hoping to sell 250 J/24s the first year, the brothers sold 750. The company now markets a complement of 22- through 65-foot sloops and ‘sprit boats.

These days, Rod and Bob continue in the design and marketing roles, but a second generation of Johnstones handles day-to-day operations. Rod’s sons Jeff and Alan are president and vice-president, respectively, with Alan handling the majority of design tasks. Alan has been designing boats under the tutelage of Rod since 1988, when the duo collaborated on the J/44. The J/32, a conventional sloop, was the first design completely bearing Alan’s signature. Nephew Jim is the company’s sales director.

And, the TPI connection endures. Everett Pearson’s son Mark is now the president of TPI Marine Group, the unit responsible for engineering and building most J/Boat products.

In 1991, the company introduced the J/105, the first of a series of sport boats with metric length designations, and became the first company to mass produce of a series of sloops with retractable bowsprits. Several other competitors, notably C&C (Fairport Marine), have since offered sprits as optional gear. Since an asymmetrical spinnaker tacked to a retractable sprit requires less deck hardware and fewer lines to hoist, douse, and trim than a conventional spinnaker, and is more easily managed by shorthanded crews, were somewhat puzzled by the reluctance of other major production builders to follow suit.

The Boats Al Johnstone opined: “Each of our boats has its own story, but reflects input from our dealers and customers about what they want us to produce. The basic goal is to produce boats that sail better, are easier to sail, and that allow novice crews to be confident about the boats and feel safe on board.”

To that end, the company’s design principles focus on producing boats that are stable, and forgiving.

“We also produce durable vessels,” Johnstone added, that, coincidentally, command a premium price.

The company’s most recently introduced boats, the J/109 (35 feet), J/133 (43 feet), and J/100 (33 feet), present interesting contrasts in the designer’s attempt to fit round pegs into round holes.

The J/133 was conceived because “we didn’t have a modern performance boat that also represented a dual-purpose personality,” said Johnstone. Since its recent introduction, 20 have been ordered in the US.

More than an updated version of its predecessor-the J/44-with a bowsprit, the reshaped hull of the J/133 has a lower center of gravity and deeper draft and ballast, which produce a more stable platform for offshore sailors.

“We have optimized the center of gravity so that she will cut through the water, rather than wallowing in a heavy sea,” explained Johnstone, alluding to a typical complaint about full-keeled, heavy displacement cruisers. Sprit boats sail well to weather and typically travel downwind by way of high reaching angles. In this case, Johnstone designed a hull shape that provides “better downwind performance when sailing on a reach,” which should translate to fewer jibes and less distance traveled. This boat also sails well in varying wind and sea conditions under different sail configurations, as we learned during our sea trial, when winds piped up to 30-plus knots and Lake Michigan presented short, but steep 3- to 4-foot waves.

On board the J/133, other contributors to stability and performance are the use of carbon fiber masts, which reduce weight aloft and have become standard equipment on J/Boats since the introduction of the J/90. Lower cabintops and less freeboard also reduce windage, though occasionally at the expense of crew comfort when seas cover the deck. The keel’s center of gravity is lowered by placing a bulb at the tip. Add the ability of TPI to produce strong, but light, hulls and decks, and you have a nice package of speed, stability, and durability.

Dealing with a 43-footer allowed Alan the luxury of having more space in which to build in comfort with fewer compromises. “It is easier to get the interior to work without compromising on the hull shape,” he said. As a result, the J/133 has the same interior volume as the J/44, but is two feet shorter. In comparison, many designers attempting to create interior volume in a small boat may accomplish that objective with teardrop shaped vessels that are short on performance. (A positive result is that owners traveling slowly have plenty of time to enjoy their boat’s amenities, though they may arrive late for a rendezvous.)

In her standard configuration, the J/133 is equipped with three staterooms and a head, though there is a two-cabin, two-head version.

Deck Layout The cockpit of the J/133 reflects the dual-purpose nature of her design. Measuring 9′ 3″ on the centerline, with an additional 1′ 9″ seat behind the wheel, the crew has plenty of room in which to operate. And given that the cockpit seats are 6′ 5″ long and 19″ wide, there’s room to stretch out for a snooze. Only the backrests, approximately 12″ high, are too low for comfort, but they’re the right height for efficiently grinding the Harken self-tailing winches.

Deck hardware consists of Harken winches, and Harken Black Magic blocks for jib, spinnaker and genoa sheets; sheets are led to the cockpit via an adjustable car system managed from the cockpit. Spinlock rope clutches house the mainsail and jib halyards, reef and furler lines. A plus is that the mainsheet-located on a traveler mounted in front of the 60″ wheel and close at hand to the helmsman-is double-ended. If more cruisers paid careful attention to the layout of sheets and lines on performance boats like the J/133, and the gear employed, odds are they would discover that items like adjustable genoa leads simplify the operation of their boats, and require less musclepower.

The rig consists of a Hall Spars carbon fiber section with double spreaders that allow rig tuning without the need for running backstays. Standing rigging is Navtec continuous rod rigging, and the backstay is affixed with an integral hydraulic unit also from Navtec.

Unlike most contemporary designs, the jib and spinnaker halyards terminate and are controlled by gear at the mast. Because the standard 105-percent jib will live much of the time on a Harken MK III furler, this is a non-issue. Neither is placement of the spinnaker halyard at the mast since the crew operating the sprit will be amidships during a hoist or takedown. This arrangement also reduces the amount of spaghetti in the cockpit. Hoisting an asymmetrical spinnaker is a simple matter of attaching the tack to the end of the sprit, extending it from the bow, and then hoisting the sail. However, a shorthanded crew will place a spinnaker snuffer high on the list of necessary options since it will ease setting and dousing in heavy winds.

Accommodations Down below, this boat feels like a cruiser. Consider that its got 6’4″ of standing headroom in the saloon, a maximum beam of 12′ 6″, 6′ 6″-long settees located port and starboard, and a drop-leaf table surrounded by cherry joinery, a vinyl headliner, and teak and holly floor panels. This area is well lit by opening ports and a hatch overhead, as well as stainless halogen reading and overhead lights. Stainless-steel grabrails are located overhead. A U-shaped galley located to starboard and nav station opposite fill the remaining area in the cabin. The dining table will seat six, leaving room for two others on the settee, and there is adequate room at the forward facing nav table for another crewmember to dine.

The galley is snug, providing just enough counter space for a cook to prepare meals, though it benefits from the addition of a cutting board that covers the top of the three-burner Force 10 propane stove/broiler/oven. A 6.5-cubic-foot icebox is located outboard, as are cabinets enclosed by plexiglass doors.

Having more interior space in which to design, Alan created a legitimate nav station by incorporating a chart table large enough to allow the use of full-sized charts. The instrument panel houses a full complement of accessories and circuit breakers, and a bookshelf located outboard provides storage area.

Skipper’s quarters are forward in a cabin occupied by a hanging locker and clothes drawers, a vanity and changing seat. The space is large enough that the tube in which the sprit lives is virtually unnoticeable, a dramatic change from their presence in smaller J boats. Berths are adult-length 6′ 4″ long and 5′ 10″ wide at the head.

In the three-cabin, one-bath version, the head is located inside the skipper’s quarters, though enclosed by a solid door. Aft cabins have double berths measuring 6′ 4″ long and 4′ 3″ wide, a vanity with drawer and cabinet, and hanging locker. In this configuration, there’s adequate storage for a full crew. In the two-cabin, two-head version, the aft port stateroom is replaced by a small head.

Though J/Boats continues to use the lightest possible materials to enhance performance, the interior of this boat is well-appointed and feels like a legitimate cruiser. We doubt that the loss of the third stateroom is worth the addition of a second head, since the forward head is large enough for adults to shower comfortably, and the third stateroom could double as a storage area for cruisers.

Construction The SCRIMP construction system, which TPI has been using for more than 10 years, is refined and well accepted, but still benefits from occasional tweaking. In general, it entails the use of an infusion-molded laminating process that allows the use of biaxial, triaxial and quadraxial E-glass that encapsulate Baltek Super-Light 45 end-grain balsa in the hull and deck. The method mechanically produces precise combinations of fabric and resins while eliminating voids in the lamination and reducing VOCs. “SCRIMP is still an evolving process,” said Al Johnstone, “and we are becoming smarter in the use of materials than we were when we first adopted the system.” The laminate has proven to produce strong, lightweight sections that, “because of their thickness,” said Johnstone, “would be nearly impossible to lay up using traditional handlaid methods.”

Recent models also benefit from a design-engineering strategy that places maximum laminates in high stress areas, and thinner layers in areas less affected by loads. The results are hulls and decks that, pound for pound, are lighter than those produced employing traditional methods.

J/Boats specifies the use of vinylester resins throughout, producing blister-resistant surfaces on both hull and deck, an improvement over builders who use that material only on hull exteriors or, only below the waterline. Though deck blistering is essentially unheard of, vinylester improves the overall quality of the product, yet at an increased cost.

The hull-deck joint is bonded with methacrylate adhesive, a well-tested product that cures slower than 3M 5200, affording workers the luxury of additional time to assure proper alignment and bonds. A structural grid that includes keel floors, mast step, engine bed, and longitudinal supports, also stiffens the hull and provides a base for the attachment of furniture.

With more than 1,500 boats produced since introducing the SCRIMP method to J/Boat buyers, Johnstone says the boats have “proven to be more durable than hand-laid boats.”

Performance We were given the opportunity to sail Patriot, hull #2, on her maiden voyage with owner Mike Duncan and J/Boats Midwest dealer Rich Stearns on a blustery Lake Michigan race day that can literally be described as a gear- buster.

While sorting out gear and crew assignments, we sailed closehauled under mainsail in 15- to 20-knot winds with speed ranging between 6 and 7 knots. She accelerated into the 9-knot range when we hoisted the 105-percent jib. Her deep rudder provided good tracking and a moderate weather helm. Still under full sails while sailing on a close reach, the boat became slightly unruly while speeding along at 10 to 12 knots; a cruising sailor would be more comfortable sailing under shortened headsail or by tucking a reef into the mainsail. After we eventually hoisted the asymmetrical spinnaker, our speed stayed in the low double digits while moving downwind.

However, the boat has one unfavorable feature that was exacerbated by a factory defect. In its standard configuration, the J/133 toerail is a molded fiberglass section extending aft to the mast, after which it disappears. Though its absence aft provides racing crewmembers assigned to rail duty a comfortable place to sit, in heavy weather conditions it proved a hazard.

Patriot’s decks also suffered from an overabundance of plug wax that filled the tread in the nonskid. As a result, during pre-race maneuvers in pouring rain, when the boat heeled severely, two crewmembers slid to leeward and only avoided going overboard by grabbing lifelines and handrails. In Patriot’s case, removing the excess plug wax to improve the nonskid is described as “a matter of wire brushing the entire deck surface,” Alan said, adding, “That situation has been resolved at the factory.”

Of the lack of toerail length, the company offers three toerail options that include the use of a teak or aluminum section extending aft to the cockpit. It’s no secret, we prefer the longer toerails.

Problem No.3 reared its head as we led the fleet to the first weather mark. We suddenly heard a loud thumping sound below, which we attributed to gear falling from a cabinet. The second time we heard it, we discovered a crack in the deck that ran fore and aft beneath the covering plate where the shrouds extend below. Stearns recognized the risk and bore off to leeward before we dropped the rig.

During a dockside inspection, we determined that a stainless steel pin bedded in the hull and attached to the chainplate had pulled from the laminate, freeing the chainplate from its bed.

“The problem, said Johnstone, “was the result of a misaligned pin bedded fore and aft in the hull that was located too close to the edge of a supporting buttress, the fiberglass section into which the pin is bedded. The combination of those factors and the heavy loads in big wind and seas caused the failure.”

TPI quickly swung into action. A repair crew arrived in Chicago a day later, pulled the rig and made the necessary repairs, and the boat was racing the following weekend. That particular J/133 has since completed the 300-plus-mile Chicago Mackinaw Race without incident. TPI also sent crews to inspect other J/133s that had been commissioned, and discovered no misalignments. TPI has re-engineered the pin-buttress connection.

Conclusion The J/133 seems to fit the designer’s objective of producing a performance-oriented cruising vessel. She has performed well on the racecourse, winning her class at Key West and in several buoy races. She’s easy to manage under sail, and handles big winds and seas nicely. She motors at 6 to 8 knots powered by a Yanmar 56-hp, four-cylinder engine and Saildrive DS-40 with a folding, two-blade prop.

]Priced at $369,500, FOB Warren, RI, she’s at the high end of the scale. For a little more, you can add these options: two-head, two-cabin layout ($1,920); refrigeration ($2,505); and a 6′ 3″ shoal-draft keel ($830). But “high price” is a relative term too often confused with the size of a required downpayment and ensuing monthly obligation that ignores quality and the ultimate price of a boat based on its resale value.

J/Boats designs and TPI produces boats that are faster than most similarly sized production boats. On deck, the cockpit and arrangement of deck gear is sensible, reflecting a racer’s mentality that coincidentally simplifies tasks for the cruising sailor. The deck gear and spars are the highest quality. We believe that the retrofit of a sprit and asymmetrical spinnaker, essentially an oversized drifter, to almost any boat will increase that owner’s enjoyment of the boat. Belowdecks, creature comforts are sufficient enough for distance cruisers; here they’re similar to those we found during an ocean race on a J/145, a 48-footer that preceded the 133. Spaces below are comfortable and the joinery well executed.

Plus, as the designer and marketer of these boats, Johnstone is involved in warranty issues as an “owner advocate, a facilitator” whose responsibility is “getting people at TPI involved in problem situations.” In the case of the failure aboard Patriot, the relationship worked as envisioned.

Perhaps the biggest issue facing J/Boats is the perception that its products are too expensive, and overly performance-oriented. In this case, we think the company offers value. We suspect that sailors who experience this superior performance relative to other production boats, especially in light air, will appreciate this.

Contact – J/Boats, 401/846-8410, www.jboats.com .

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• By Ralph Naranjo
• Updated: June 25, 2004

By the time the spray had settled in the wake of the 2004 Boat of the Year contest, it was clear to me that among the growing fleet of sailboats being offered for the dual purposes of racing and cruising, the J/133 was definitely the showstopper. Even though I spend much more time cruising than racing, I like boats that are meant to sail efficiently, and I found in the J/133, a big sister to the popular J/105, technology and simplicity elegantly blended in pursuit of harnessing a breeze.

The J/133 is light and responsive. It has a fine entry, a flat canoe body, and modest beam that trims down to an even leaner waterplane. The well-matched bulb keel and spade rudder deliver forgiving steering characteristics as well as surprising tracking ability for appendages with such high-aspect ratios. Even as we noticed some binding in the rudderstock bearing on the prototype boat, the J/Boat team was already in the process of fixing the problem.

TPI Inc., which builds the J/133, was among the first production boatbuilders to implement resin-infusion laminating techniques, and it employs its patented SCRIMP system in the manufacture of many large composite structures in addition to boats. The big plus for the boat buyer isn’t just the precision repeatability that such a process makes possible; the infused resin also fills the slots in the balsa core, reducing the incidence of voids and producing a laminate that’s more resistant to water damage.

I like the layout below, which blends the requirements of a sea boat with those of a comfortable coastal cruiser. The modest beam and easy-to-navigate cabin sole give the accommodations a sailboat feel, the U-shaped galley to starboard is anything but minimal, and the adjacent nav station to port is a main feature of the saloon rather than an afterthought. The two settees that flank the cabin table need only lee cloths to make them excellent sea berths, while the cabins forward and aft offer double berths for times when the boat’s on an even keel.

Lifting cabin-sole boards, peering into the bilge, and looking in lockers, I found evidence of sound engineering practices and adherence to the systems-installation guidelines of the American Boat & Yacht Council.

A fast, agile, big-mainsail sloop, like other high-performance Js, the J/133 has a retractable sprit. It’s both simple to use and a real turbo boost for those cruising in areas like Long Island Sound and Chesapeake Bay during light, summertime conditions. An asymmetric spinnaker is easier to handle than a conventional chute and ups the performance and fun factors for a shorthanded crew.

Navtec rod rigging is standard, as is the Hall Spars carbon-fiber mast that’s less than 65 feet tall, allowing the boat to duck into the Intracoastal Waterway. A shoal-draft alternative to the standard 7.5-foot keel will make that option more appealing and ease the boat’s passage in other shallow-water cruising grounds.

The few weaknesses I discovered can probably be addressed through modifications at the builder’s or with after-purchase add-ons. The boat we sailed lacked a bow roller, necessary for efficient anchor deployment and retrieval on a plumb-stem boat such as this, and, proving the J/133’s raceboat inclinations, the toerail didn’t extend aft of the mast. Anyone with extended racing or cruising ambitions should bear in mind the limited tankage–50 gallons each of fuel and water.

Strong enough to go offshore but also fast and fun in all-too-common light air, the J/133 should appeal to those who both race and cruise with smaller crews and shorter time frames. Its comfortable accommodations provide the amenities and privacy to make fast, efficient, performance cruising a real pleasure for two couples.

Ralph Naranjo is Cruising World’s technical editor.

J/133 Specs

LOA 43′ 0″ (13.11 m.) LWL 37′ 10″ (11.52 m.) Beam 12′ 9″ (3.90 m.) Draft 7′ 6″ (2.29 m.) Sail Area (100%) 983 sq. ft. (91.3 sq. m.) Displacement 17,900 lb. (8,136 kg.) Ballast 6,900 lb. (3,136 kg.) Water 50 gals. (190 l.) Fuel 50 gals. (190 l.) Designer Rodney Johnstone Price (base) $370,000

J/Boats Inc. (401) 846-8410 www.jboats.com

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