Gunfleet 43 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Gunfleet 43 is rooted in Richard Matthews' extensive experience and desire to create modern cruising yachts with a unique variable draft capability. After a long career leading Oyster Yachts, Matthews founded Gunfleet Marine in 2010, bringing together a core team of former Oyster specialists. The Gunfleet 43, debuting in 2011, was the direct result of this vision, designed to excel in open ocean conditions while offering access to shallower waters.

Tony Castro, celebrated for his work on a diverse range of vessels, including racing yachts, was instrumental in shaping the Gunfleet 43, as well as the entire Gunfleet range. Castro's design philosophy for Gunfleet yachts emphasizes a blend of modern aesthetics, efficient sailing performance, and practical innovations crucial for true blue water cruising. The construction, handled by the historic British boatbuilder Windboats Marine at their Norfolk sites for moulding and fitting out, ensures robust build quality with fiberglass and solid deck materials. A hallmark feature of the Gunfleet 43 is its innovative lifting centerboard system, allowing for variable draft, which was a key part of Matthews' original mandate. The yacht was also available with dual rudders as an option, further enhancing control. The clever design effectively hides its central cockpit, contributing to its sleek profile.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) reported around 16.3, which is considered relatively low, the Gunfleet 43 has impressed reviewers with its performance. Yachting publications noted its "lively performance even in light winds" and "responsive handling," coupled with "remarkable stability", 2]. This suggests that while not designed as an out-and-out racer, her overall design, including a significant beam of 13.35 feet and a spade rudder, contributes to a stiff and well-mannered ride.

With a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 226, the Gunfleet 43 falls into the moderate displacement category, indicative of a substantial cruiser built for comfort and capability rather than ultralight speed. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.263, combined with a wide hull form, means stability is likely derived from her form rather than solely from a heavy keel. The rig and deck gear are meticulously configured to enable accurate sail trim, maximizing performance and precision, even for shorthanded cruising. Her calculated hull speed is 8.27 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gunfleet 43 is designed with a strong emphasis on luxurious, spacious, and comfortable accommodation, catering to experienced sailors often embarking on long voyages, 3, 9]. Typically configured with a two-cabin layout, the yacht features high-quality finishes such as maple interior joinery.

Key amenities often include a well-appointed galley with a stainless steel fridge and freezer, and a microwave combi oven, underscoring its design for self-sufficiency during extended periods aboard. The central cockpit design allows for a sprawling aft deck section, which often incorporates twin zones ideal for sunbathing or relaxation. The overall interior aims to maximize owner comfort, reflecting the brand's commitment to high standards of craftsmanship and liveability.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gunfleet 43 generally express a high degree of pride and satisfaction, valuing the yacht's gripping design and luxurious amenities. The target market for the Gunfleet 43 comprises experienced sailors who intend to undertake long-distance voyages, with some owners aiming to sail around the world. The ownership experience highlights the vessel's attributes as a highly engineered, state-of-the-art cruising yacht, built with bespoke construction and meticulous attention to detail. While a formal owner community isn't widely publicized, the high-end, specialized nature of these yachts often fosters a close-knit network among those who share a passion for adventurous yet comfortable cruising.