SOLEMAR SE33, the video test of an out-of-the-ordinary Maxi-Rib

SOLEMAR SE33 Sea Trial

The Solemar SE33 leaves the port of Genoa effortlessly, pushed by two 300-horsepower Mercury V8s (600 HP in total), which immediately prove to be a well-matched engine setup for a cabin Maxi-RIB of this size.

Out in open sea, we start pushing the throttles forward and the Solemar SE33 lifts its wake almost instantly. At just over 20 knots, we record a fuel consumption of just 60 liters per hour, equal to 3 liters per nautical mile which, considering the 600 total horsepower at the stern and a cabin boat to push, is truly impressive.

At this speed, the hull handles the sea with surprising confidence, ensuring safe, comfortable navigation without harsh impacts, even when we “jump” over the steepest waves.

Pushing a bit more, we reach 25 knots and 3,700 rpm and, to our great surprise, consumption remains stable at around 3 liters per mile, further confirming how well-designed and, above all, efficient this hull is.

So we decide to accelerate a little more. At 30 knots, with the sea on the beam, the Solemar SE33 continues to deliver an incredible sense of solidity, remaining smooth and safe, with minimal roll, and burning just 3.4 liters per mile. An impressive figure that, in practice, translates into the ability to tackle long routes with remarkable efficiency and outstanding comfort.

But now it’s time to see how this Solemar SE33 handles a series of tight turns. Wheel hard to port and without slowing down, the boat manages to surprise us, tracing a perfectly circular path without the slightest hesitation. Even when we counter-turn to starboard, it still feels like we’re on a safe, fun, never-nervous boat — almost like a pure sports boat. The steering is precise, the turns are clean, and the boat always seems to know exactly where it wants to go. We then try crossing our own wake, which piles on top of the natural meter-and-a-half swell and nothing… nothing happens. The Solemar SE33 just keeps navigating with an almost unbelievable level of comfort.

At this point we turn again and head in the same direction as the waves, putting the sea at our stern to try and reach the top speed. The log starts throwing out numbers that leave us literally speechless: 30, 35, 39, 44… 44.2 knots! An absolutely stunning performance for a cabin cruiser in sea conditions that would challenge many larger vessels. And yet, once again, Solemar proves its remarkable construction skills with a model capable of delivering a safe, dry, and comfortable boating experience.

Test Data

The Solemar SE33 in detail

The Solemar SE33 features harmonious lines, generous spaces, and a deck designed with meticulous attention to detail. Starting from the stern, we immediately notice the large swim platform surrounding the two 300-horsepower Mercury engines — a generous layout that, as you can easily imagine, greatly enhances swimming and water activities for the owner and guests.

A convenient step allows easy access to the outdoor dinette where, in true Solemar style, a large sofa wraps around a central table. With just a few simple moves, the table can be lowered to cushion level and turned into a spacious sunbed, or opened to comfortably seat up to eight people.

Continuing toward the bow, we find another sofa — this time smaller and L-shaped — which offers not only a comfortable seat but also an excellent spot from which to enjoy the navigation.

The attention to detail that has always distinguished Solemar boats becomes even more evident at the helm station: the seat accommodates up to two people, the wheel is centrally positioned for practically perfect visibility, and all onboard controls (throttles, panels, and other switches) are neatly arranged and within easy reach. Completing this outstanding helm setup are two large Raymarine displays which, on one hand, keep engine data under control and, on the other, keep the chartplotter always active.

To protect both the outdoor dinette and the helm station from the sun, there is a large shade canopy integrated into a high-quality hard top.

We reach the large bow area of the Solemar SE33 via a comfortable, wide side deck protected by a good number of handrails. Here, another spacious sunbed allows two people to enjoy the sun in total relaxation and complete safety, thanks to the many stainless-steel stanchions and handrails.