1966 Islander 33 vs Bavaria C42 — Comparison

1966 Islander 331966 Islander 33
VS
Bavaria C42Bavaria C42

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1966 Islander 33Bavaria C42
General
ManufacturerIslanderBavaria
Year1966–19742018
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAGermany
DesignerJoseph McGlassoncossutti yacht design
Dimensions
LOA10.06 m (33.0 ft)12.88 m (42.3 ft)
LWL7.62 m (25.0 ft)11.25 m (36.9 ft)
Beam2.97 m (9.7 ft)4.09 m (13.4 ft)
Draft1.52 m (5.0 ft)2.10 m (6.9 ft)
Weight
Displacement4,536 kg (10,000 lbs)8,900 kg (19,621 lbs)
Ballast1,814 kg (3,999 lbs)2,750 kg (6,063 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area42.0 m² (452 ft²)76.0 m² (818 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine15 HP45 HP
Fuel Capacity57 L (15.1 gal)200 L (52.8 gal)
Water Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)340 L (89.8 gal)
Accommodation
Berths68
Cabins23

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1966 Islander 33
15.57
Bavaria C42
17.98
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1966 Islander 33
39.99
Bavaria C42
30.90
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1966 Islander 33
0.72
Bavaria C42
0.79
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1966 Islander 33
23.44
Bavaria C42
15.20

Detailed Comparison

The 1966 Islander 33 and Bavaria C42 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1966 Islander 33 is a classic design by Islander from USA, while the Bavaria C42 is a modern offering from Bavaria from Germany. The 1966 Islander 33 was penned by Joseph McGlasson. The Bavaria C42 was designed by cossutti yacht 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 C42 at 12.88m (42.3ft) with a 4.09m beam. The Bavaria C42 is 2.82m longer than the 1966 Islander 33. The Bavaria C42 displaces approximately 96% 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 C42, with an SA/D of 17.98 and 76.0 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The Bavaria C42 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 C42 has a comfort ratio of 15.2 and a capsize screening value of 0.79. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the 1966 Islander 33 and 30.9% for the Bavaria C42, 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 C42 offers 8 berths in 3 cabins with 340L water and 200L 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 C42 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.

For liveaboard: The Bavaria C42 offers more sleeping accommodation, making it better suited for extended 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 C42