The Dusky 33 Open Fisherman is a popular and highly versatile center console boat that can be utilized for a variety of purposes, including diving, fishing, cruising, island hopping, charter fishing, work or pleasure. Sought after by loyal fans of the builder, these reliable boats maintain a steadfast, die-hard following for very good reasons. Here we take a look at some of the key features this boat offers.
Above: Join Boat Trader and Ryan McVinney at the docks for a quick video walkthrough of a 2023 Dusky 33 Open Fisherman center console fishing boat.
Power And Performance
The Dusky 33 Open Fisherman is available with both inboard diesel motors and outboard motors from various brands, such as Suzuki, Mercury, Cummins, Mercruiser, Volvo, and Yanmar. The model we checked out for this review came equipped with twin Suzuki 350 HP outboard engines that owners should expect will deliver an efficient cruising speed of between 25-30 MPH, for an approximate fuel burn rate of 14-18 GPH and a max range of 400 miles (roughly 1.6 MPG, depending on conditions). The boat’s top speed clocks in somewhere around 60 MPH with the twin DF350APX engines. She will hop on plane quickly and should achieve 30 MPH from a standstill in around 6.5 seconds.
Above: A 2023 Dusky 33 with twin 350 HP Suzuki outboard engines. Photo by Boat Trader.
Additionally, the “Dusky Drive” is a unique fiberglass outboard bracket with an integrated swim/dive platform that improves maneuverability, stability and safety on the water. The 33 features a running surface equipped with two steps designed to create an air cushion, resulting in a smoother ride and improved speed and fuel efficiency.
Construction
Boasting strength and rugged integrity the Dusky 33 Open Fisherman is constructed with 100% composite and hand-laminated construction, making her a durable and tough vessel while guaranteeing that she’ll handle rough seas for decades to come.
Above: A 2023 Dusky 33 Open Fisherman center console boat at the docks in Miami, FL. Photo by Boat Trader.
This is an advanced, modern offshore fishing vessel that offers functionality, performance and versatility. She can easily be used as a dive boat, island hopper, family cruiser, charter fishing boat or utilitarian work boat. With factory-direct pricing, the model provides an excellent value for hardcore anglers looking to do long runs out into the deep blue or cruising families that are looking for a seaworthy, capable day boat.
The broken sheer line towards the rear of the boat is lowered to make it easier to reach the water for hauling in fish or accessing lines and nets. By reducing the gunwale height in the cockpit, anglers can more easily access the water with their hands to retrieve their catch, or use a gaff to move a large fish into the in-deck fish box.
Stern And Aft Deck
The bracket mounted outboards and full transom along with a 40-gallon livewell with clear lid make her an obvious choice for offshore anglers fishing wrecks and reefs and target sailfish, mahi-mahi and grouper. The boat features stainless steel rod holders throughout and a practical bait station with tackle storage and rocket launchers above. There is plenty of room in the aft cockpit for casting and reeling in big game fish.
Helm Controls
At the helm she comes with twin Simrad touch screens, hydraulic steering, trim tabs, instrument panel with rocker switches and circuit breakers plus a custom windshield. A chrome T-Top with vinyl shade provides cover for the double-sided twin bench seat and a deluxe, dual binnacle control box comes standard on the Dusky 33 Open Fisherman. This offers convenient thumb-operated power, trim and tilt with effortless throttle and shift functions, plus a sleek look with chrome handles and built-in redundancy system.
The boat we were aboard was equipped with the optional Dometic Optimus 360 joystick control system that gives captains ultra precise steering – not only forward and backward but also side to side, thus making close-quarters maneuvering much easier. A push-button neutral hold safety switch provides peace of mind while built-in speed control with pattern shift and trim assist are nice features to have.
Center Console
An oversized center console features a step-down well below that fits a marine toilet and offers additional storage space. This is a great feature for long days offshore.
Bow Area
The bow of the boat features a high sheer line and wide gunwale cap that provide stability and prevent water from entering during rough weather conditions. The bow cockpit area has padded u-shaped seating, a 5 rod pedestal rocket launcher and raised casting platforms with stowage compartments and stainless steel bow eye, plus premium Infinity sound system with bluetooth. Of course there is ample room for casting and fighting fish up front here as well as in the aft cockpit.
Specifications:
Length Overall (LOA): 33′
Beam: 10′ 10″
Draft: 18″ (hull only)
Deadrise: 20º, 25º, 35º
Transom Height: 25”
Hull weight (approx.): 6,700 lbs.
Max HP: 900 HP
Fuel capacity: 250 gallons (standard)
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