The MASON 43 is a sailing boat designed by Al Mason and built by the Ta Shing Yacht Building Company in Taiwan. It is a classic bluewater cruising yacht known for its sturdy construction, excellent sailing performance, and comfortable accommodations.
Here are some key features and specifications of the MASON 43:
1. Design: The MASON 43 features a traditional full keel design with a moderate displacement hull. It has a long waterline and a relatively narrow beam, which contributes to its excellent sailing characteristics and stability.
2. Construction: The boat is built using high-quality materials, including a solid fiberglass hull with hand-laid fiberglass mat and woven roving. The deck is also made of fiberglass with a balsa core for added strength and insulation.
3. Sailing Performance: The MASON 43 is known for its excellent sailing performance, especially in offshore conditions. It has a cutter rig with a large mainsail, genoa, and staysail, allowing for versatile sail configurations depending on the wind conditions. The boat is designed to be easily handled by a small crew.
4. Accommodations: The interior of the MASON 43 is well-designed and offers comfortable living spaces for extended cruising. It typically features a spacious salon with a dining area, a well-equipped galley, and a navigation station. There are usually two private cabins, including a forward V-berth cabin and an aft cabin, providing ample sleeping quarters for a small crew or family.
5. Storage: The boat offers plenty of storage space throughout, including lockers, cabinets, and drawers, allowing for extended cruising with all necessary supplies and equipment.
6. Seaworthiness: The MASON 43 is known for its seaworthiness and ability to handle rough offshore conditions. Its full keel design provides stability and tracking ability, making it suitable for long-distance cruising and ocean passages.
7. Reputation: The MASON 43 has gained a reputation as a reliable and well-built cruising yacht. It has been praised for its solid construction, attention to detail, and overall quality.
Overall, the MASON 43 is a classic and well-regarded sailing boat that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and seaworthiness, making it a popular choice among bluewater cruisers.
