The philosophy behind the 33 was to highlight the design, build expertise and techniques that this duo has to offer.
Noting the success of the 30-35ft racer/cruisers currently on the market that have been performing on the IRC scene both inshore and offshore, we felt there was clearly the demand for another boat to fit within this category, particularly one with this much potential.
The Ker 33 is looking to lay down a new benchmark in the racer/cruiser division and with the huge success of Ker Design over the years and McConaghy's unrivaled build quality, it is no surprise that orders have already been placed.
The philosophy behind the 33 was to highlight the design, build expertise and techniques that this duo has to offer.
Noting the success of the 30-35ft racer/cruisers currently on the market that have been performing on the IRC scene both inshore and offshore, we felt there was clearly the demand for another boat to fit within this category, particularly one with this much potential.
KER33 Gallery
KER DESIGNED YACHT
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The McConaghy Ker 33 is an out and out racing machine optimised for competition under the IRC rating system, with the bonus of surprisingly civilised interior accommodation.
Following the many racing successes of the Ker 40 and later Ker 40 Plus designs, the latest model built by the China-based McConaghy yard is sure to attract plenty of interest among potential UK buyers. The design follows a very similar style to its larger sisters, including the near plumb bow, long dynamic waterline and flared stern sections. There’s more rocker in the under water sections than the Ker 40s have – this is more of a semi-displacement hull shape, and has the advantage of reduced wetted surface area in light airs.
The design has been optimised for performance under the IRC rating system, although with the growing popularity of the ORC rating system in many parts of mainland Europe, Jason Ker was also careful to ensure the boat will perform well in that environment. The first Ker 33, which was delivered to Australia earlier this year, has an IRC rating of only 1.021, although with a single-spreader rig.
On deck and under sail
At first sight it’s immediately apparent that this boat has been designed for speed – even the stanchions, pushpit and pullpit are of an efficient aerofoil shape. These are of composite construction and autoclaved in house. In addition, much thought has gone into producing an ergonomic deck layout in which friction is kept to an absolute minimum and running rigging led in straight lines, without turning corners, wherever possible. The deck gear package is by Harken, with clutches by Spinlock.
Below decks there is more style than you'd expect with an out-and-out racing boat.
Below decks
Given the pure raceboat treatment on deck, many would expect to find a bare and stripped out interior. Instead, there’s a surprisingly spacious arrangement that’s also well lit thanks to the trademark big windows and a mostly white finish.
There are three double berths, plus two settees in the saloon, a proper heads compartment, a decent navigation station, a workable galley and a stylish carbon table. Features that are all to often lacking on cruising yachts include excellent hand holds and deep fiddles. Overall it’s an efficient and surprisingly comfortable arrangement that gives this design the potential to be a genuinely dual-purpose boat.
Equipment and options
To contain costs the boat is produced on a strict production basis, with every built to a near identical specification. The biggest options therefore are in the choice of aluminium or carbon rigs, and whether to set up for either asymmetric spinnakers, set from a sprit, or conventional symmetric kites. In common with most dedicated racing designs, the choice of sail maker and electronics packages is also left to individual owners to specify.