Florida Sport Fishing - Dusky’s Geared Up! Dusky 33 Open fisherman

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Dusky’s Geared Up! Dusky 33 Open fisherman

Written by FSF Crew

AS SEEN IN THE MAY/JUNE 2006 ISSUE

Enjoy an efficient single diesel with the performance and maneuvering advantages of twin screws.

Dusky Marine has a reputation for manufacturing highly functional boats that perform extremely well in all types of sea conditions. Their policy at the family owned and operated company is quite simple. Build a rock-solid, semi-custom platform that will last for years, then completely eliminate the dealer and sell the boats factory direct.

The concept allows the angler to purchase his dreamboat with a long list of standard amenities and extensive options, all built to the individual buyer’s specific requirements while paying considerably less than he would for a comparably sized production boat. Remember, factory direct means more boat for less money. So does the Dusky concept work? Well, close to 40 years worth of boat building and an extremely loyal following proves that it does.

Push this concept to the limit and you end up with the Dusky 33 Open Fisherman, the flagship of the fleet. The Dusky 33 offers a high performance ventilated stepped-hull, and while all Dusky models are available with a wide variety of power-plants, the latest craze in the 33 is a single, economical 440hp Yanmar diesel powerhouse feeding twin Mercury outdrives. The brainchild of Mastry Engine Center, the unique single engine/ dual outdrive configuration provides outstanding performance and handling capabilities coupled with minimal maintenance and economical fuel efficiency. The concept is called the Geared Up System, and is also available with straight inboard shafts rather than Bravo stern drives. Geared Up System is Yanmar’s answer to a critical need in the marine boating industry – how to get twin screw performance from a single engine boat.

Along with the innovative drive system, a good bit of the 33s outstanding performance characteristics can also be attributed to Dusky’s radical multiple deadrise stepped-hull design. Unique to the 33, deadrise at the first step is 35 degrees with the step ending around the console area. A 25 degree middle step drops down to a 20 degree step at the stern. With the varying stepped-hull design, you get the sea slicing performance of a severe Deep-V at the bow for those occasions when you need speed in big, choppy seas, yet a comfortable stomach friendly deadrise at the stern keeps you from being rocked all over the place.

As soon as you step foot aboard the massive 33 you’ll quickly realize this big boat means business. The 33 is a wide-bodied no-nonsense fishing machine featuring a non-skid deck, waist high gunwales and ample room to maneuver around the console. You’ll find fishing a crew of six or more anglers in even the harshest conditions will be a breeze.

The first feature that catches your attention is the oversized console occupying the center of the unobstructed deck. The step-down console is tall and roomy with ample space for a six-foot tall deckhand to maneuver around in comfort. The helm station is exceptionally large and functional and offers plenty of space for mounting an entire arsenal of fish-finding, communication, and navigational equipment. If more space is required, an electronics box in the overhead t-top, which is also outfitted with rocket launcher and outriggers, provides the added room you’re looking for.

For added visibility, the leaning post/tackle station situated behind the console sits atop an elevated deck. Full access to the drive system is a cinch as one button on the dash triggers hydraulic rams which lift this same platform to provide convenient 360 degree accessibility to the single diesel inboard. An additional hatch situated aft provides access to the 33s battery systems and additional pumps.

Taking a close look at the options list for this brawny vessel really shows you the company’s commitment to individual vessel customization. Every Dusky 33 that leaves the plant is a true one of a kind dream machine. Each is a clear representation of the particular buyer’s needs and expectations. From hull color to optional accessories, you can really personalize this boat. One 33 might end up tournament equipped for serious competition with multiple livewells in the transom, in the deck, and integrated into the seating. While another 33 might come out with a radar arch and enough horsepower to get you to the islands before you can say “Rum-Runner.” Still others are ordered with the creature comforts of home that make the vessel extremely comfortable and accommodating for multiple-day, long distance runs.

Thanks to a whopping 10’ 10” beam, the Dusky 33 boasts massive deck space with an unlimited amount of storage. Customization of the space allows for options such as an in-deck freezer, additional insulated storage and so much more.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that every item on the 33 must be ordered extra. Each and every Dusky 33 comes very well-equipped with a long list of standard, make-sense amenities. Hydraulic steering, instrument panel with circuit breakers and rocker panel, console cushions, trim tabs, bilge pumps and stainless steel rod holders are just a few of the included must-haves.

For the boater who requires speed, economy and versatility, the Dusky 33FC Fisherman's Cuddy model may be a much better fit. Built on the same high-performance, rugged platform as the Dusky 33 Open-Fisherman, the FCs spacious and infinitely configurable forward cabin allows you the convenience of a shelter without giving up the fish-ability of a hardcore center console. With Yanmar’s Geared Up System, the 33FC offers the amenities, power, and range of a long distance cruiser.

In the end, it all comes down to cost. In an age where most fishing boats in this class cost as much as a modest home, it’s refreshing to know you can still get an all composite construction high-performance semi-custom built 33 foot sport fishing vessel at a real-world price. Test drive a Dusky 33 for yourself and see why four decades of Dusky owners wouldn’t fish any other boat.