Sense 43 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The Sense 43 emerged from Beneteau's innovative Sense range, which debuted in 2011, signaling a deliberate departure from conventional cruiser design. Collaborating with Berret Racoupeau Yacht Design, a firm known for its contributions to Beneteau's cruising range, the builder aimed to shape the interior and exterior spaces around how most sailors actually use their boats. This design philosophy prioritized freedom, discovery, and pleasurable encounters on the water. Beneteau, with its long history rooted in the maritime world since 1884, embraced fiberglass construction in the 1960s, a pivotal moment that enabled more efficient production and design freedoms, leading to recreational sailboats that balanced performance, comfort, and affordability. The Sense 43 embodies this ethos, featuring a modern, beamy hull shape with pronounced chines, a design choice that contributes to its stability and interior volume. The boat was offered with a deep fin keel with a bulb, drawing 6.58 feet, and an optional shoal draft of 4.42 feet, providing versatility for various cruising grounds. A notable design element is the inclusion of twin rudders, an increasingly common solution for enhanced control and directional stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Sense 43 is designed to deliver satisfying sailing performance while maintaining comfort. With a reported sail area of 912 square feet and a displacement of 22,200 pounds, it features a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.47. This ratio suggests a yacht capable of performing well in light-to-moderate wind conditions, making it responsive and enjoyable for cruising. Its Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at around 165.4, places it in the lighter end of moderate displacement cruisers, aligning with descriptions of it as sleek and fast.

The Sense 43's sailing characteristics are further influenced by its modern hull form, which includes hard chines and twin rudders. These features provide excellent directional stability, particularly when heeled or in varying sea states, and contribute to its ability to sail very well. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.263 indicates that while the design prioritizes interior volume and a shallower cockpit, the hull form and twin rudders work in concert to provide a balanced and stable sailing experience. Owners and reviewers often praise the Sense 43 for its balance of performance and comfort, making it a suitable choice for both coastal cruising and longer passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau Sense 43 is characterized by its spaciousness and innovative layout, a hallmark of the Sense range's "closer connection to the water" philosophy. A key feature is the low companionway, which creates a more open-plan interior and enhances accessibility between the cockpit and salon. The yacht is typically arranged as a two-cabin cruiser, offering a comfortable and practical living space.

Reviewers note the "huge cockpit" and "very easy swimming and cabin access," highlighting the boat's focus on outdoor living and interaction with the water. The cockpit also boasts "enormous stowage lockers" on either side, providing ample space for fenders, lines, and other gear. Below deck, the interior finish is generally described as excellent, a result of Beneteau's efficient scale production and dedicated workforce. The design emphasizes natural light and ventilation, contributing to a bright and airy atmosphere. The generous beam of 14 feet allows for broad living spaces, creating a sense of openness throughout the salon and cabins.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Sense 43 generally express appreciation for its design and sailing capabilities. The boat is frequently praised for being "very comfortable... while on the hook and daysailing". This comfort, combined with its spacious cockpit and easy access, makes it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxing and enjoyable experience on the water. While its sailing performance for passagemaking is sometimes described as mixed, it is generally considered good overall. The Sense 43 receives accolades for its balance of performance and comfort, making it an excellent choice for cruising. The high-quality workmanship is also a frequently mentioned positive aspect.