The Westsail 43 is a popular cruising sailboat that was designed by William Crealock and built by Westsail Corporation in the 1970s. It is known for its sturdy construction, seaworthiness, and traditional design.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Westsail 43:
1. Construction: The Westsail 43 is a heavy displacement, full-keel sailboat built with a solid fiberglass hull. It has a robust construction, making it suitable for offshore cruising and long-distance voyages.
2. Design: The boat features a traditional design with a clipper bow, a long overhang, and a canoe stern. It has a cutter rig, which means it has two headsails (a jib and a staysail) in addition to the mainsail.
3. Size and Layout: The Westsail 43 measures approximately 43 feet in length overall (LOA) and has a beam of around 13 feet. It typically has a spacious interior layout with a forward cabin, a main saloon, a galley, a navigation station, and a separate aft cabin.
4. Accommodation: The boat can comfortably accommodate a small crew or a couple with guests. It usually has a V-berth in the forward cabin, a settee and a dining table in the saloon, a well-equipped galley, and a head (bathroom) with a shower.
5. Performance: The Westsail 43 is not known for its speed but rather for its stability and ability to handle rough seas. It has a moderate sail area and a long waterline, which contributes to its comfortable motion and ability to sail in various weather conditions.
6. Seaworthiness: The Westsail 43 is highly regarded for its seaworthiness and offshore capabilities. Its heavy displacement and full-keel design provide stability and make it suitable for long passages and bluewater cruising.
7. Reputation: The Westsail 43 gained popularity after a couple, Hal and Margaret Roth, completed a circumnavigation in the 1970s aboard their Westsail 32. This led to increased interest in Westsail boats, including the larger Westsail 43.
Overall, the Westsail 43 is a well-built, traditional cruising sailboat that offers comfort, safety, and reliability for those looking to embark on long-distance voyages or live aboard. Its classic design and reputation for seaworthiness have made it a sought-after choice among cruising enthusiasts.
