Edel Cat 43 Information, Review, Specs

The Edel Cat 43 emerged during the later years of Edel's operations, with its production commencing in 1992. The company, founded by brothers Maurice and Pierre Edel, had already established a strong reputation as one of France's earliest adopters of fiberglass for sailboat manufacturing, a strategic move by Maurice Edel who recognized the limitations of traditional wooden construction. While the Edel company diversified into multihulls with designer Sylvestre Langevin in 1981, Maurice Edel is specifically credited with the design of the Edel Cat 43, continuing the builder's ethos of producing practical and reliable vessels. Production of Edel sailing yachts, including the Cat 43, continued until 1995, marking a relatively short but impactful run for this large catamaran.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Edel Cat 43 offers a distinct sailing experience compared to monohulls. Its reported sail area to displacement ratio of 30.10 is exceptionally high, suggesting that the vessel is well-powered and capable of strong performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. This characteristic allows the Edel Cat 43 to accelerate quickly and maintain good speeds without needing excessive wind. With a generous beam of 24.61 feet, the catamaran provides inherent stability, a hallmark of multihull design, which translates to a comfortable and level ride even in choppier seas. Traditional monohull performance metrics such as ballast-to-displacement and displacement-to-length ratios do not apply to catamarans in the same manner, as their stability is derived from their wide stance and hull form rather than internal ballast. The twin keel configuration provides a moderate maximum draft of 3.94 feet, offering a balance between performance, directional stability, and accessibility to shallower anchorages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Edel Cat 43 is designed to maximize living space and comfort, leveraging its expansive beam. Reviewers note the impression of "vast volume" within the vessel, partly attributed to the absence of numerous interior partition walls, which creates an open and airy feel. A notable feature of the Edel Cat 43's layout is its generous capacity for accommodation, typically featuring five cabins, each with independent access and its own head. Of these, four are designated for guests, with one capable of sleeping three individuals. This arrangement not only provides ample privacy for multiple occupants but also contributes to a safe deck space, particularly for families with children. The design emphasizes practicality and versatility, allowing the Edel Cat 43 to function effectively as a comfortable private cruising vessel or a well-appointed day charter yacht. While specific details on material finishes require an on-site inspection, the general reputation of Edel boats suggests a focus on robust construction and functional design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and charter operators often highlight the Edel Cat 43's versatility and robust nature. Many praise its ability to serve as a comfortable cruising platform, offering ample space and stability for extended voyages. Boats of this model are frequently described as "well maintained" by their operators, with some undergoing "full refits" by dedicated owners, which speaks to their enduring value and the potential for customization to modern standards. While no specific widespread "common problems" are consistently reported in general reviews, the need for maintenance and occasional upgrades, like new engines, is a natural part of owning any boat of this vintage. The Edel Cat 43 continues to be a sought-after option on the pre-owned market for those seeking a practical, spacious, and reliable catamaran for cruising or charter endeavors.