1969 Cal 34 vs Hunter 33 — Comparison

1969 Cal 341969 Cal 34
VS
Hunter 33Hunter 33

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1969 Cal 34Hunter 33
General
ManufacturerCalHunter
Year1969–19751988–1994
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAUSA
DesignerBill LapworthHunter Design Team
Dimensions
LOA10.36 m (34.0 ft)10.06 m (33.0 ft)
LWL8.08 m (26.5 ft)8.53 m (28.0 ft)
Beam3.05 m (10.0 ft)3.35 m (11.0 ft)
Draft1.65 m (5.4 ft)1.68 m (5.5 ft)
Weight
Displacement5,216 kg (11,499 lbs)4,763 kg (10,501 lbs)
Ballast2,041 kg (4,500 lbs)1,814 kg (3,999 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area47.4 m² (510 ft²)48.0 m² (517 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine15 HP21 HP
Fuel Capacity57 L (15.1 gal)76 L (20.1 gal)
Water Capacity114 L (30.1 gal)151 L (39.9 gal)
Accommodation
Berths66
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1969 Cal 34
16.01
Hunter 33
17.23
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1969 Cal 34
39.13
Hunter 33
38.09
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1969 Cal 34
0.70
Hunter 33
0.80
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1969 Cal 34
23.63
Hunter 33
18.10

Detailed Comparison

The 1969 Cal 34 and Hunter 33 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1969 Cal 34 is a classic design by Cal from USA, while the Hunter 33 is a 1980s offering from Hunter from USA. The 1969 Cal 34 was penned by Bill Lapworth. The Hunter 33 was designed by Hunter Design Team.

In terms of size, the 1969 Cal 34 measures 10.36m (34.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.05m, compared to the Hunter 33 at 10.06m (33.0ft) with a 3.35m beam. The 1969 Cal 34 is 0.30m longer than the Hunter 33. The 1969 Cal 34 displaces approximately 10% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1969 Cal 34 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 16.01 and 47.4 m² of sail area. The Hunter 33, with an SA/D of 17.23 and 48.0 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The Hunter 33 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1969 Cal 34 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 23.6) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.70). The Hunter 33 has a comfort ratio of 18.1 and a capsize screening value of 0.80. The ballast ratios are 39.1% for the 1969 Cal 34 and 38.1% for the Hunter 33, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1969 Cal 34 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 114L of water capacity and 57L of fuel. The Hunter 33 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 151L water and 76L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1969 Cal 34 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 Hunter 33 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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Or view individual specs: 1969 Cal 34 · Hunter 33