Nicholson 43 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Nicholson 43 begins in 1968, when the esteemed Raymond Wall designed her as an ocean racer. Production commenced in 1969, with the first boat, "Flame," being unveiled at the Earls Court Boat Show where it was named Boat of the Show. The design process for the Nicholson 43 was meticulous, involving tank testing and extensive development focused on trim and sail plan, reflecting the era's emphasis on competitive sailing. A total of 37 units of this model were built.

Camper & Nicholsons, the builder, boasts a heritage stretching back to 1782, synonymous with yachting excellence and master craftsmanship. During the period of the Nicholson 43's production, Camper & Nicholsons upheld its philosophy of achieving design and build excellence, ensuring effortless performance and delivering safe and swift cruising experiences. The 43 was one of Raymond Wall's first GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) production boats for the yard, marking a transition while maintaining the builder's high standards. Many of these yachts featured encapsulated lead keels, contributing to their robust construction. While some early hulls were built by Halmatic, they were often finished by Berthon, further ensuring high-quality completion.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nicholson 43's design ratios reveal a vessel built for serious sailing. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 26.95, she demonstrates excellent potential for performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Her ballast to displacement ratio, an impressive 49.89%, signifies a remarkably stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind and offering a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio, around 328.07, places her in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, suggesting a robust build and a capacity for long-distance voyaging, despite her initial ocean racer brief.

Anecdotal reports from owners and reviews consistently praise the Nicholson 43 for its well-mannered performance and balance under sail. She is described as having a deep keel, making her a capable distance cruiser with a good turn of speed. The hull design is noted for its speed and efficient form, characteristics that contribute to her reputation for being a rewarding boat to sail.

Accommodations and Layout

While the detailed interior specifications vary slightly between individual boats due to custom finishes or refits over the years, the Nicholson 43 typically offers a comfortable and practical layout for cruising. With a reported maximum headroom of approximately 6 feet 2 inches (1.90 meters), the interior feels spacious for a yacht of her era.

The classic teak interior is a hallmark, providing a warm and traditional aesthetic. Common configurations include a double berth in the forward cabin and four berths in the saloon, often supplemented by pilot berths, bringing the total complement to five or more. Owners appreciate the deep cockpit, which provides security and comfort at sea, and the generally spacious interior layout that makes her suitable for extended time aboard. Ample storage is usually found throughout, a testament to her design as a capable cruiser. While specific details on ventilation systems might vary, the overall design prioritizes livability and seagoing functionality, aligning with Camper & Nicholsons' reputation for excellence.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently laud the Nicholson 43 for its solid construction and timeless design, often citing a strong sense of pride in ownership. The boat's robust build is frequently highlighted, reassuring owners of its seaworthiness and durability over decades of use. Its reputation as a well-mannered performer, even in challenging conditions, is a recurring theme among those who have sailed her, making her a favored choice for both racing and comfortable cruising.

While specific weaknesses are not widely documented as systemic design flaws, owners of boats of this vintage often undertake common maintenance projects. These can include updating or replacing original equipment such as sea cocks, propeller shafts, or engines, as evidenced by records of such work on individual vessels. These are typical considerations for any well-loved older yacht and generally do not detract from the Nicholson 43's overall esteemed reputation for quality and enduring appeal.