The Bristol 43.3 is a sailing boat that was designed by Ted Hood and built by Bristol Yachts in the United States. It is a classic cruising yacht known for its solid construction, comfortable accommodations, and excellent sailing performance.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Bristol 43.3:
1. Design: The Bristol 43.3 features a traditional design with a long waterline, moderate displacement, and a full keel. It has a graceful sheerline, a raised cabin trunk, and a spacious cockpit.
2. Construction: The boat is built using high-quality materials, including a solid fiberglass hull and a cored deck for added strength and insulation. The construction is known for its durability and seaworthiness.
3. Sailing Performance: The Bristol 43.3 is known for its excellent sailing performance, offering a good balance between speed and stability. It has a cutter rig with a large mainsail, a genoa, and a staysail, allowing for versatile sail configurations in different wind conditions.
4. Accommodations: The interior of the Bristol 43.3 is designed for comfortable cruising and can accommodate a small family or a group of friends. It typically features a spacious salon with a dining area, a well-equipped galley, multiple cabins, and a head with a shower.
5. Layout Options: The boat offers different layout options, including variations with two or three cabins. The master cabin is usually located aft, providing privacy and easy access to the cockpit. The salon and galley are well-appointed and offer ample storage space.
6. Seaworthiness: The Bristol 43.3 is known for its seaworthiness and is designed to handle a variety of weather conditions. Its full keel provides stability and tracking ability, making it suitable for long-distance cruising and offshore passages.
7. Legacy: The Bristol 43.3 is part of the Bristol Yachts legacy, which was known for producing high-quality cruising sailboats. The company built boats from the 1960s until the early 1990s, and their vessels are highly regarded for their craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Overall, the Bristol 43.3 is a classic cruising sailboat that offers a combination of comfort, performance, and seaworthiness. It is a popular choice among sailors looking for a well-built and reliable yacht for extended cruising or liveaboard adventures.
