It has a fractional sloop B&R rig, a nearly plumb stem, a reverse transom, an internally-mounted spade-type rudder controlled by a wheel and a fixed fin keel.
The winning details noted included that it meets its mission statement as an "affordable, introductory family coastal cruiser."
[7] In 2012 Cruising World reviewer Alvah Simon wrote, "The innovations and improvements found in the new and completely revamped Hunter 33 aren’t mere window dressing; they’re genuine leaps forward in speed, handling, comfort, and value.
Always lurking is the risk of trying to squeeze too much into a small hull, such as larger cockpits, more spacious decks, increased interior volume, and a plethora of modern gadgetry.
Simon continued, "small but ultimately significant adjustments to the deck design add up to notable ergonomic efficiency.
This is a contemporary-looking, modern-feeling coastal or near-offshore cruiser designed to take an entire family to sea in ease, style, and comfort.
"[8] In a 2014 review for charter operator Norton Yachts, Jon Grant described the boat, "the Marlow Hunter 33 comes with a hard chine, dual ended main sheeting, internal halyards led back to the cockpit, self-tailing winches, a jib furling system, and an optional in mast furling system with a rigid vang that make sailing this boat so easy."