The Rhodes 33 was originally designed in 1938 for class racing in Southern California, where there were 20-30 mile races to offshore islands. These events required boats that could accommodate a crew overnight and that were weatherly and reasonably able, for the races were in open waters and often upwind. She has a deep cockpit, but not self-bailing, and there is no bridgedeck or high companionway sill.
Auxiliary power is supplied by an outboard fitting through a well in the counter.
The Rhodes 33 is one of a cluster of narrow racing boats Rhodes designed during this period. The book also includes drawings of the boat's profile and interior layout.