Landfall 43 (C&C) Information, Review, Specs

The C&C Landfall 43 began production in 1982, emerging from a period where C&C Yachts, a company founded in 1969 by a collaboration of prominent Canadian designers and builders, was known for its innovative construction techniques and rakish designs. The Landfall series, which also included models like the Landfall 38, 42, and 48, represented C&C's strategic move into the burgeoning cruising market while maintaining their commitment to sailing efficiency. C&C's manufacturing ethos during this era emphasized high-quality construction, notably pioneering the use of balsa-cored fiberglass hulls for improved stiffness and reduced weight, a technique that became a hallmark of the brand. The Landfall 43 itself features a solid fiberglass hull and deck, ensuring durability and a solid feel. The design incorporated a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for offering a good balance of maneuverability and directional stability. The boat was offered with either a sloop or ketch rig, providing owners with options for sailplan versatility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The C&C Landfall 43, with its design ratios, presents itself as a capable cruiser with a respectable turn of speed. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.58 suggests a moderate performer, indicating it can handle a variety of wind conditions efficiently without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in heavy winds. The Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 37% contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion at sea. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 269, the Landfall 43 falls into the category of a moderate-heavy cruiser, implying a comfortable ride in choppy conditions and solid offshore capabilities rather than a lightweight, pure racing design. Owners have generally found the Landfall 43 to be a good combination of a fast cruiser, offering solid performance under sail. Its fin keel paired with a skeg-hung rudder contributes to directional stability, a desirable characteristic for long-distance cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not available in the core data, the C&C Landfall 43 is known for offering good accommodations, making it well-suited for extended cruising or liveaboard use. The interior layout typically features two cabins and two bathrooms, along with a galley and salon area, providing ample living space for its length. Reviews and owner comments frequently highlight the Landfall 43 as a "quality liveaboard cruiser," suggesting a well-thought-out interior designed for comfort and practicality at sea. Although detailed information on specific materials is limited, C&C yachts of this era were generally known for their quality finish, often incorporating warm wood trim alongside functional fiberglass components, offering a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the C&C Landfall 43 consistently praise its attributes as a cruising platform. Many describe it as a "beautiful center-cockpit yacht" and a highly desirable "quality liveaboard cruiser," with some owners specifically choosing it after extensive searches for a suitable vessel. The boat is appreciated for its robust construction and overall performance undersail, striking a balance between speed and comfort. However, like many vessels of its age, owners occasionally note common maintenance items. For instance, issues such as original deck fittings and hatches developing leaks, requiring re-bedding, have been mentioned. The presence of original first-generation Navtec tangs on the rod rigging is another area that owners might consider for inspection and potential maintenance, especially on boats that have not undergone significant refit. Despite these typical considerations for an older vessel, the C&C Landfall 43 maintains a dedicated owner community, reflecting its enduring quality and appeal.