Columbia 43 CB Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of just over 43 feet (43.25 ft) and a waterline length of 32 feet, the Columbia 43 CB boasts a substantial displacement of 23,500 pounds, signifying a solid and seaworthy design. Its notable feature, the retractable centerboard, allows for a flexible draft ranging from a shallow 4.92 feet for exploring shallower anchorages to a deep 10.25 feet for enhanced upwind performance.

History and Design

The Columbia 43 CB was produced by Columbia Yachts between 1969 and 1974. During this period, Columbia Yachts, under the ownership of the Whittaker Corporation since 1967, was a leading American builder known for its commitment to fiberglass construction, a material that was revolutionizing boat building with promises of durability and reduced maintenance. The company prided itself on delivering classic designs with comfortable interiors, often working with renowned naval architects such as William H. Tripp Jr. to ensure good performance and seaworthiness.

William H. Tripp Jr. was particularly well-regarded for his keel-centerboard designs, and the Columbia 43 CB exemplifies this expertise, offering a distinct advantage in varying sailing conditions. While there was also a standard fixed-keel version of the Columbia 43, the centerboard model provided greater versatility for sailors exploring diverse cruising grounds. Columbia Yachts' ethos at the time was focused on mass production of well-designed, robust fiberglass sailboats, making yachting accessible to a broader audience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Columbia 43 CB was designed with performance in mind, often described as a "hot racing yacht" that transitioned into a "comfortable, fast cruiser" in later life. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 15.78 suggests a boat that is moderately powered and might require a decent breeze to truly come alive, but once powered up, it is known for its speed.

A standout characteristic of the Columbia 43 CB is its impressive ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 49.4%. This high ratio indicates exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a strong breeze without excessive heeling and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 320.14 categorizes the Columbia 43 CB as a heavy, traditional cruiser, reinforcing its reputation for a strong build and robust offshore capabilities. Anecdotal evidence suggests the boat handles well and is balanced, making it a capable vessel for both extended cruising and spirited sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not available, the Columbia 43 CB was designed to offer versatile accommodations suitable for cruising. Interior layouts typically feature a conventional arrangement for a vessel of its size, including a comfortable V-berth forward, a main salon often equipped with a dinette (affectionately referred to as "our Denney's booth" by some owners) and opposing settee, a galley, and a head compartment. The design would have emphasized livability and storage, in line with the cruising trends of its era. Interior finishes would likely have featured a blend of fiberglass and traditional wood trim, reflecting the aesthetic of production yachts from the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Columbia 43 CB generally praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, often highlighting its ability to handle challenging conditions with comfort. The strong build is a frequently mentioned positive attribute, contributing to the boat's enduring appeal as a capable cruiser. While individual boats will naturally have unique maintenance histories, general consensus suggests that the Columbia 43 CB does not suffer from many inherent, unfixable problems, making it a viable classic yacht for those willing to undertake the typical upkeep associated with an older fiberglass vessel. Its versatility, offering both reasonable speed and comfortable living, is a consistent theme among those who have sailed and owned these robust Tripp designs.