Not everyone is yet familiar with the young brand from Turkey. But sailors should definitely remember the name. Because the shipyard behind it - Sirena Marine - is one of the best in Europe. And it doesn't do things by halves.
This is demonstrated not least by the Azuree 33C at the Hanseboot, presented for the first time by German dealer Nordic Yachting. It is the latest development of the entry-level model presented five years ago, the smallest in a line of three yachts to date. The larger sisters are called Azuree 41 and 46, both designed by Rob Humphreys.
The 33C, on the other hand, was designed by Giovanni Ceccarelli and epitomises the Italian heritage of the line. The very wide aft-facing hull with the characteristic, strongly pronounced chines remained virtually unchanged. It conveys a sporty basic orientation, which is entirely intentional.
In fact, Azuree has positioned itself in the performance cruiser segment without, of course, neglecting cosiness and comfort. On the contrary: even the basic equipment is quite extensive and the standard of fittings is high. Consequently, with a displacement of just under 5.2 tonnes, the 33C is no lightweight.
The V-shaped cockpit has two well-integrated steering positions far aft, which act on two rudder blades. In the YACHT test of the previous version, the boat proved to be very good-natured and easy to control even at the limits.
The modified 33C now has a nicer design for the thwarts and cockpit coamings, although they are quite flat. On request, there is a table that can be lowered into the cockpit floor and raised using a cable pull, providing space for up to six sailors - an unusually elaborate solution in this class.
Below deck, the changes are far more obvious. There is no longer any comparison with the rather cramped impression that used to prevail. The Azuree 33C now offers the option of an almost open foredeck, which is only separated from the saloon by a ring bulkhead and creates a stunning feeling of space. However, if you prefer, you can also separate the double berth in the bow with a bulkhead or curtain - which would be a shame.
The pantry, originally orientated lengthways, is now arranged in an L configuration. As the tap and mixer tap can be swivelled into the sink, the module looks more like a bar counter than a kitchen unit, which is also a visual gain. The area between the saloon bench seat and the wet room on the starboard side can be configured in a truly playful way - with a folding navigation system, which is nothing unusual in itself, but also with a colourful "Day & Night" cabinet that conceals a bottle compartment and coffee machine.
The double aft compartment is one of the largest in this class - made possible by the very wide stern of the Azuree 33C. Those who do not order the wardrobe will find a luxuriously airy cabin here, which also has several large hatches. The compartment is so well designed that owners are spoilt for choice as to where they prefer to sleep - fore or aft. This is not a matter of course for boats in the ten-metre class.
The quality appearance of the Azuree 33C is also far above standard. Beautiful oak veneers adorn the interior of the yacht on show at the Hanseboot, the edges of which have been neatly sealed and varnished several times. Even in the non-visible areas, all plywood components have been deburred and varnished. The hull laminate, gelcoat, stainless steel parts and upholstery - all manufactured in-house at Sirena - appear immaculate and of high quality. The high price of 138,000 euros is therefore justifiable.
Only the access to the impeller is annoying. Because the engine was installed upside down for reasons of weight distribution, with the saildrive facing forwards, the cooling water pump is located right at the stern - where you can only get to it by contorting yourself. Nevertheless, the engine room is otherwise perfectly insulated, very spacious and equipped with an automatically activated light. And the oil for the saildrive can be changed in a matter of seconds. We're happy to turn a blind eye to that ;-)
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Fancy a visit to the Hanseboot? You will find the Azuree 33C in Hall B6, right next to the South Entrance. And us too, by the way! The YACHT stand is opposite Bente and DSV, our friendly neighbours.
Jochen Rieker
Herausgeber YACHT
