This year, they are proudly debuting the Sargo 33 at the show—a rugged, high-performance Finnish-built boat designed for adventure, comfort, and versatility in all conditions.
New Zealand’s boating landscape is as diverse as its people. From spontaneous fishing missions to weekend explorations along our rugged coastline, Kiwi boaties demand a vessel that’s as adaptable as they are. Enter the Sargo 33—a Finnish-built powerhouse designed to handle the rough with the smooth, offering a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and seaworthy resilience.
In the near future, in print, Boating New Zealand is bring you a full in-depth review of the Sargo 33, but we couldn’t wait to introduce this rugged 33-footer that’s making waves in our local waters. Designed with the same ingenuity and hardiness as the people who craft it, the Sargo 33 is a true workhorse—strong, reliable, and practical, with a touch of Scandinavian style.
Finnish DNA, Kiwi spirit
The Sargo 33 hails from Finland, where boats aren’t just built for leisure but for survival. The unforgiving Baltic conditions demand craft that can withstand punishing seas, bitter cold, and unpredictable weather. While New Zealand’s waters might not bring sub-zero temperatures, we certainly experience their fair share of challenging conditions—from the howling southerlies of Cook Strait to the sudden squalls of the Hauraki Gulf.
With a deep-V hull, high bulwarks, and full walkaround decks, the Sargo 33 is designed to provide confidence in any conditions. Whether slicing through a stiff chop or pushing into a head sea, this is a boat that gets you there—and back—safely.
Performance to match its pedigree
Beneath the sleek white-and-black exterior, the Sargo 33 packs a serious punch. Twin Volvo Penta D6-340 DPI diesel engines, paired with sterndrives, deliver a comfortable cruise speed of 28–31 knots and a thrilling top end of 43 knots. With smart hull efficiency keeping fuel burn down to just 2.8 litres per nautical mile at cruise, this is a boat that covers serious ground without excessive fuel costs.
For perspective, that’s Flat Rock in just 42 minutes from Rangitoto Lighthouse—ideal for keen fishos chasing workups or weekend warriors heading to their favourite island retreat. The bow thruster makes close-quarters handling a breeze, while trim tabs automatically adjust for the perfect ride.
Smart design, clever space
Step aboard, and the Sargo 33 continues to impress. It’s the sort of boat that packs in the features of a larger vessel, but without the added bulk. The walkaround deck layout means safe and easy movement forward, even in choppy conditions. Access is seamless—either via the rear duckboard and stern door or the side deck entry at the helm, perfect for solo boating.
Inside, the fit and finish are top-notch, with a Scandinavian aesthetic that favours practicality without compromising on style. Thoughtful details abound:
- A hidden second cabin tucked under the main saloon, offering a comfortable double berth.
- A well-appointed galley, complete with gas cooktop, 230V microwave, and dual fridges.
- A spacious head and shower, finished with stylish grey tiling.
- Sliding side doors for instant ventilation and easy deck access.
- A manual sliding sunroof, bringing the open sky into the saloon without unwanted wind buffeting at speed.
The helm is smartly laid out, with Garmin multi-function displays delivering navigation, depth, and engine data at a glance. In a nod to practicality, analogue engine dials sit above, ensuring clear, easy-to-read information no matter the conditions.
Is the Sargo 33 the ultimate all-rounder?
In the world of versatile adventure boats, the Sargo 33 makes a strong case for itself. It’s got the power, comfort, and capability to tackle whatever you throw at it—whether it’s a blast to Great Barrier, a fishing trip in gnarly weather, or a relaxed weekend escape.
At just under $1 million as reviewed, this is a premium offering, but you’re getting a boat built to last a lifetime. The Sargo reputation for strength, safety, and performance is well-earned, and the 33-footer strikes an excellent balance between space, speed, and practicality.
If you’re heading to the show, be sure to visit Marina, M35 to see this exceptional vessel up close and chat with the team about what makes it a standout choice for Kiwi boaties.
Sargo 33 Specification
Builder: Sargo Boats
Designer: Sargo Boats
LOA: 10.99 metres
Beam: 3.45 metres
Draft: 1.10 metres
Displacement (Dry): 7400 kg
Engine: 2 x Volvo Penta D6-340 DPI
Fuel capacity: 800 litres
Water capacity: 260 litres
Cruise speed: 28 to 31 knots
Max speed: 43 knots
Accommodation: four plus one
