Lightning vs San Juan 33S
How do the Lightning and San Juan 33S compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Lightning 
San Juan 33S | Lightning | San Juan 33S | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 19.0 ft5.79 m | 33.1 ft10.09 m |
| Waterline length | 15.3 ft4.65 m | 27.8 ft8.47 m |
| Beam | 5.0 ft1.51 m | 8.0 ft2.42 m |
| Draft | 5.0 ft1.51 m | 5.5 ft1.68 m |
| Displacement | 700 lb318 kg | 5,700 lb2,585 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 3,500 lb1,588 kg |
| Sail area | 189 ft²17.6 m² | 464 ft²43.1 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 38.36 | 23.27 |
| Displacement / Length | 88 | 118 |
| Comfort ratio | 7.8 | 18.9 |
| Capsize screening | 2.23 | 1.78 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.2 | 7.1 |
Lightning vs San Juan 33S: the short version
- The San Juan 33S is the larger boat at 33.1 ft10.09 m LOA versus 19.0 ft5.79 m for the Lightning.
- The San Juan 33S is heavier, displacing about 714% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Lightning carries the more powerful rig (38.4 vs 23.3), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The San Juan 33S scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the San Juan 33S rates better for offshore work (1.78 vs 2.23).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.