1966 Islander 33 vs Bavaria 34 — Comparison
1966 Islander 33
Bavaria 34
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1966 Islander 33 | Bavaria 34 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Islander | Bavaria |
| Year | 1966–1974 | 1998–2004 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | Germany |
| Designer | Joseph McGlasson | J&J Design |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 10.06 m (33.0 ft) | 10.35 m (34.0 ft) |
| LWL | 7.62 m (25.0 ft) | 9.10 m (29.9 ft) |
| Beam | 2.97 m (9.7 ft) | 3.38 m (11.1 ft) |
| Draft | 1.52 m (5.0 ft) | 1.80 m (5.9 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs) | 5,200 kg (11,464 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,814 kg (3,999 lbs) | 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 42.0 m² (452 ft²) | 52.0 m² (560 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 15 HP | 18 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 57 L (15.1 gal) | 80 L (21.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 76 L (20.1 gal) | 170 L (44.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 6 | 6 |
| Cabins | 2 | 2 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1966 Islander 33 and Bavaria 34 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1966 Islander 33 is a classic design by Islander from USA, while the Bavaria 34 is a 1990s offering from Bavaria from Germany. The 1966 Islander 33 was penned by Joseph McGlasson. The Bavaria 34 was designed by J&J Design.
In terms of size, the 1966 Islander 33 measures 10.06m (33.0ft) overall with a beam of 2.97m, compared to the Bavaria 34 at 10.35m (34.0ft) with a 3.38m beam. The Bavaria 34 is 0.29m longer than the 1966 Islander 33. The Bavaria 34 displaces approximately 15% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1966 Islander 33 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 15.57 and 42.0 m² of sail area. The Bavaria 34, with an SA/D of 17.60 and 52.0 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The Bavaria 34 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1966 Islander 33 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 23.4) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.72). The Bavaria 34 has a comfort ratio of 17.6 and a capsize screening value of 0.78. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the 1966 Islander 33 and 32.7% for the Bavaria 34, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1966 Islander 33 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 76L of water capacity and 57L of fuel. The Bavaria 34 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 170L water and 80L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1966 Islander 33 is the better choice for comfortable cruising thanks to its higher comfort ratio, offering a gentler motion at sea that crews will appreciate on longer passages.
For racing: The Bavaria 34 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: Both boats provide similar accommodation, making either a viable choice for living aboard. Consider water and fuel capacity for extended stays away from marinas.
Compare Different Boats
Looking for a different matchup? Browse All Boats
Or view individual specs: 1966 Islander 33 · Bavaria 34