The Beneteau 43 is a well-regarded cruising sailboat that has earned a reputation for its blend of performance, comfort, and practicality. Designed by the esteemed Berret-Racoupeau, this yacht caters to both experienced sailors and those looking to embark on leisurely voyages. With its elegant lines and thoughtful design, the Beneteau 43 offers a spacious layout that enhances the sailing experience.
Design and Construction
The Beneteau 43 features a modern design with a fin keel and spade rudder, providing excellent stability and maneuverability. The hull is constructed from fiberglass (FG), a material known for its durability and resistance to the elements. The yacht’s length overall (LOA) measures 43.0 feet (13.11 m), with a beam of 13.50 feet (4.11 m), creating a balanced and harmonious profile. The spacious cockpit, high freeboard, and well-placed deck hardware further enhance the vessel’s usability.
The interior design emphasizes comfort and style, featuring high-quality finishes and a functional layout. The use of natural light through large windows and hatches makes the living space inviting and airy.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Beneteau 43 is a fractional sloop rig, providing a good balance between ease of handling and sailing efficiency. With a sail area of approximately 934 square feet (86.77 m²), the yacht delivers solid performance in a variety of wind conditions. The displacement-to-length ratio (DLR) of 158.18 indicates that the vessel is capable of a smooth ride, while the sail area-to-displacement ratio (SAD) of 20.66 suggests a responsive sailing experience.
The Beneteau 43 can achieve a hull speed of about 8.27 knots, making it a capable choice for both cruising and racing. Its construction and design ensure that it handles well even in challenging sea conditions.
Comfort and Accommodations
One of the standout features of the Beneteau 43 is its comfortable and spacious interior. The layout typically includes two or three cabins, allowing ample sleeping space for families or groups. The saloon is designed to be both functional and stylish, featuring a large dining table and comfortable seating.
The galley is well-equipped with modern appliances, making meal preparation easy while at anchor or underway. Additionally, the yacht has ample storage throughout, which is essential for extended voyages. The headroom of 6.58 feet (2.01 m) ensures that the interior space feels open and accommodating.
Safety and Practicality
Safety is a top priority in the design of the Beneteau 43. The yacht features robust handrails, non-skid surfaces, and well-placed winches, enhancing its practicality during sailing maneuvers. The yacht’s stability, coupled with its fin keel and spade rudder, provides confidence even in rough seas.
The cockpit is designed for safety, with easy access to the helm and a layout that allows for efficient sailing. The inclusion of a reliable auxiliary engine (often a Yanmar 54 HP diesel) ensures that the yacht can maintain power when needed.
Conclusion
Overall, the Beneteau 43 is a remarkable cruising sailboat that combines performance, comfort, and safety. Its thoughtful design and construction make it a popular choice among both novice and experienced sailors. With its spacious accommodations, responsive handling, and practical features, the Beneteau 43 is well-suited for extended voyages or weekend getaways, offering a sailing experience that is both enjoyable and secure. Whether navigating coastal waters or embarking on longer passages, the Beneteau 43 stands out as a reliable and elegant choice in the world of cruising yachts.
Specifications
| Hull Type | Fin w/bulb & spade rudder |
| Rigging Type | Fractional Sloop |
| LOA | 43.00 ft / 13.11 m |
| LOD | 41.83 ft / 12.75 m |
| LWL | 38.08 ft / 11.61 m |
| S.A. (reported) | 934.00 ft² / 86.77 m² |
| Beam | 13.50 ft / 4.11 m |
| Displacement | 19,566.00 lb / 8,875 kg |
| Ballast | 6,239.00 lb / 2,830 kg |
| Max Draft | 5.42 ft / 1.65 m |
| Construction | FG |
| First Built | 2006 |
| Builder | Beneteau |
| Designer | Berret-Racoupeau |
Auxiliary Power/Tanks (orig. equip.) | |
|---|---|
| Make | Yanmar |
| Model | 4JH4AE |
| Type | Diesel; Saildrive |
| HP | 54 |
| Fuel | 53 gals / 201 L |
Accommodations | |
| Water | 95 gals / 360 L |
| Headroom | 6.58 ft / 2.01 m |
Sailboat Calculations | |
| S.A. / Displ. | 20.66 |
| Bal. / Displ. | 31.89 |
| Disp / Len | 158.18 |
| Comfort Ratio | 23.88 |
| Capsize Screening Formula | 2.01 |
| S# | 3.26 |
| Hull Speed | 8.27 kn |
| Pounds/Inch Immersion | 1,836.86 pounds/inch |
Rig and Sail Particulars | |
| I | 51.75 ft / 15.77 m |
| J | 15.33 ft / 4.67 m |
| P | 47.50 ft / 14.48 m |
| E | 15.75 ft / 4.80 m |
| S.A. Fore | 396.66 ft² / 36.85 m² |
| S.A. Main | 374.06 ft² / 34.75 m² |
| S.A. Total (100% Fore + Main Triangles) | 770.72 ft² / 71.60 m² |
| S.A./Displ. (calc.) | 17.05 |
| Est. Forestay Length | 53.97 ft / 16.45 m |
| Mast Height from DWL | 60.00 ft / 18.29 m |
Disclaimer
The considerations and analyses presented regarding the Beneteau 43 sailboat are of a general nature and are based on the available information and technical data on this model, interpreted to the best of our knowledge and understanding. It is important to note that the specific characteristics of any particular sailboat may vary due to custom modifications, maintenance performed, and conditions of use over time, among other factors. Therefore, the details and performance of the boat you are considering may not exactly match the information provided here.
We strongly recommend that, before making any purchasing or usage decisions, you conduct a detailed inspection of the boat in question, consult with nautical professionals and other sailors, and consider your personal needs, expectations, and capabilities. Each sailboat may have unique particularities that affect its performance and suitability for different types of sailing and sailors.
The information contained in this analysis should be used as a general guide and not as a definitive reference. Professional evaluation and personal inspection are essential to ensure that the boat meets your specific requirements and expectations.