1966 Islander 33 vs 2005 Dehler 34 — Comparison

1966 Islander 331966 Islander 33
VS
2005 Dehler 342005 Dehler 34

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1966 Islander 332005 Dehler 34
General
ManufacturerIslanderDehler
Year1966–19742005–2012
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAGermany
DesignerJoseph McGlassonJudel/Vrolijk
Dimensions
LOA10.06 m (33.0 ft)10.30 m (33.8 ft)
LWL7.62 m (25.0 ft)9.10 m (29.9 ft)
Beam2.97 m (9.7 ft)3.25 m (10.7 ft)
Draft1.52 m (5.0 ft)1.80 m (5.9 ft)
Weight
Displacement4,536 kg (10,000 lbs)4,800 kg (10,582 lbs)
Ballast1,814 kg (3,999 lbs)1,700 kg (3,748 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area42.0 m² (452 ft²)50.0 m² (538 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine15 HP18 HP
Fuel Capacity57 L (15.1 gal)50 L (13.2 gal)
Water Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)100 L (26.4 gal)
Accommodation
Berths66
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1966 Islander 33
15.57
2005 Dehler 34
17.85
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1966 Islander 33
39.99
2005 Dehler 34
35.42
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1966 Islander 33
0.72
2005 Dehler 34
0.77
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1966 Islander 33
23.44
2005 Dehler 34
17.15

Detailed Comparison

The 1966 Islander 33 and 2005 Dehler 34 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1966 Islander 33 is a classic design by Islander from USA, while the 2005 Dehler 34 is a 2000s offering from Dehler from Germany. The 1966 Islander 33 was penned by Joseph McGlasson. The 2005 Dehler 34 was designed by Judel/Vrolijk.

In terms of size, the 1966 Islander 33 measures 10.06m (33.0ft) overall with a beam of 2.97m, compared to the 2005 Dehler 34 at 10.30m (33.8ft) with a 3.25m beam. The 2005 Dehler 34 is 0.24m longer than the 1966 Islander 33. The 2005 Dehler 34 displaces approximately 6% 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 2005 Dehler 34, with an SA/D of 17.85 and 50.0 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The 2005 Dehler 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 2005 Dehler 34 has a comfort ratio of 17.2 and a capsize screening value of 0.77. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the 1966 Islander 33 and 35.4% for the 2005 Dehler 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 2005 Dehler 34 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 100L water and 50L 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 2005 Dehler 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.

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