Performance

GMarty · Post by **GMarty** » Thu Jun 17, 2004 8:17 am

Can't beleive I just found this site. Nice! Anyway, I have been very interested in getting an opinion on the performance of the 33FBC. First off, I have an 83 that I have had great luck with and love the boat. Before the 33 I had a 28 Bert which was equally awesome (in different ways) That said, I have nothing to compare my 33 to other than the 28. Since they are so different, it is not a great comparison. I have run my 33 in some very challenging seas and have been generally impressed. The question I have is related to it "rolling" a bit. There have been times when I was a bit troubled by how much she rolled in tough seas. Again, that could be that I am spoiled and expecting too much from a boat. Is it safe to say that she would not actaully roll as it sometimes feels it could if I was not steering constantly? Here again, she handles well but scared the crap out of me once or twice when she got on her side way more than my 28 ever did or would. Thanks and nice to find this site!

Fish Stix · Post by **Fish Stix** » Thu Jun 17, 2004 9:18 am

Welcome to the 33FBC, George. A great boat...a 38's cabin on a 33?? Yes, they are tender to the beam. It's a lot of boat packed into a small punch. It's a Bertram - it'll take more than your crew can. I roll much more on autopilot than under helm control, so yes, I think you're probably correct. When I know we'll be out in heavy seas, I'll fill the extra tanks. The additional 1/2 ton deep in the hull helps offset the roll. But you're right, the sportfishies have us on roll. Definitely a more stable platform. It's all in what you want out of a fishing boat. There's a boat here with a fairly high tuna tower. I can only imagine how much he rolls. By the way, where do you fish? Another east coast boat? You out there with Sumich? Or maybe I'll finally get some support down here in the Gulf?

GMarty · Post by **GMarty** » Thu Jun 17, 2004 10:13 am

I am out of Cape Cod Mass and fish surrounding waters. Where do you have extra tanks? So, does "she will take more than the crew" mean you would leave her on auto in heavy seas without the fear getting too rolled over. I assume actually rolling it would take more than one would think.

Fish Stix · Post by **Fish Stix** » Thu Jun 17, 2004 11:33 am

No. I would never run auto in a heavy sea. The AP wouldn't react quick enough and I'd risk turning stern to sea. In our boats it only takes one good wave over the transom and you're going down. No, I was referring to running in a 2 to 3 ft beam sea where I've noticed a better ride under helm. It all related to reaction time. I've also noticed that digging in one trim tab helps when running beam. You seemed very concerned about rolling. I'll try to answer your question: The only time I was ever concerned involved myself and 4 250lb crew members riding out a squall in the gulf. We had the bridge box full of block ice and tuna, about 350 lbs. With the 5 of us, a full box on the bridge and gusts upwards of 50+, we seemed to be getting over a little too much. I sent them in the cabin. Ever since I've wondered about that bridge box getting me in trouble one day. No, you're correct in your concern. Remember, fear can be a good thing. Fuel. It's a long story. Check out David's "Owner's tips" for more info. Some more details in the posting as well.

Extractor · Post by **Extractor** » Sat Jun 19, 2004 8:05 am

I run my 33 from Fl to the Bahamas in a variety of sea conditions. I have been making these crossins for 30 plus years now, first in my 31 Bert, then in a 36 Delta SFX, a great sea boat , and now my 33. I have to say that the 33 is a brute and will take all you can throw at her, but weight and trim are an utmost consideration. I eliminated alot of excess weight from the bridge and the salon, and this really helps roll in the rough beam sea. Trimming the downwind tab also has a great effect, I use some tab almost all the time. Keep your gen in the rear , not the engine room to avoid the bow squirreling her around, and take the tab off her when running a steep close break like we get here in the Jupiter Inlet. Having said all that, I,m putting my baby seriously up for sale, I am going to the lowest price on Yacht World just to get her moved quick. The Bahamas are no longer the same for me , costs and fuel rediculous, and clearing customs stateside has become a nightmare. I just don't want to put up with it in my dodage. At any rate , it is a top notch rig in palm Beach condition,and I will sell it for a giveaway price to move on to another venue. It is currently on Yacht World , but I will be selling it myself if I am going to be giving it away. If you have friends that have been impressed with your boats , please let them know. She is sweet, but it is time to go. Thanks , Ron aka Extractor