Hunter 43 Legend Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 43 Legend was in production from 1989 to 1992. Designed by the in-house Hunter Design Team, the model reflects Hunter Marine's broader philosophy of balancing performance with comfort and ease of handling. The company, founded by Warren Luhrs in 1973, had shifted its focus from purely racing boats to more comfortable cruising designs in the early 1980s. This ethos is evident in the 43 Legend, which emphasized spacious interiors, robust construction, and features designed to enhance the sailing experience. The sales brochure from 1989 highlighted its design to meet the demands of serious cruisers.

The Hunter 43 Legend features a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder. It is equipped with Hunter's signature B&R rig, a fractional sloop configuration with swept-back spreaders that allows for a larger mainsail and easier sail handling, a hallmark of many Hunter yachts designed to provide both performance and simplicity. A notable variation is that the Hunter 43 Legend design was later developed into the 1995 Hunter 430, which shared a similar hull but featured a different interior arrangement.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 43 Legend is designed for comfortable cruising with a focus on stability and ease of handling. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio is approximately 16.25, indicating a boat that performs adequately in a range of wind conditions, leaning towards a capable cruiser rather than a dedicated light-air performer. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at approximately 0.319. While this might suggest a more tender boat that could heel readily, it often translates to a softer motion in a seaway, contributing to passenger comfort. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio is around 193.63, classifying it as a moderate displacement vessel. This suggests a good balance between speed and comfort, offering reasonable performance without being excessively heavy or excessively light.

Anecdotal reports suggest the Hunter 43 Legend offers solid performance under sail and is praised for its comfortable motion at anchor. Owners and reviewers often describe it as easy to handle, with a spacious cockpit, making it appealing for cruising. The B&R rig contributes to straightforward sail management, reinforcing its cruiser-friendly design.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom details for the Hunter 43 Legend are not provided in the primary data, its design emphasizes spaciousness and functionality, suitable for longer stays onboard. Reviews and owner discussions frequently highlight the generous interior volume, a characteristic of the "Legend" series from Hunter Marine. The interior layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a main salon, a galley, and often a quarter berth or aft cabin arrangement. Some models were noted for having an "extra 'crew'" berth, indicating flexible sleeping arrangements. Descriptions often point to a practical and comfortable living space, designed to accommodate families or multiple guests. The finish quality and materials, consistent with Hunter's ethos during this period, generally feature wood trim integrated with fiberglass, prioritizing durability and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Storage is typically ample, addressing the needs of cruisers for extended voyages. Ventilation is also a key consideration in cruising boats of this size, with multiple hatches and ports usually fitted to ensure airflow. Interior plans, such as the "Legend 43 Interior Plan - dwg. #H43A2631," were available in the owner's manual, illustrating the thoughtful arrangement of living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 43 Legend consistently praise its comfortable design and solid sailing characteristics. Many appreciate the boat's spacious interior and practical layout, making it a popular choice for coastal cruising and longer excursions. The ease of handling and reliable performance under sail are frequently cited as strengths. Forums dedicated to Hunter owners often feature positive feedback, with owners generally expressing satisfaction with their vessels.

Regarding potential weaknesses or common maintenance issues, some owners have noted concerns about moisture on the deck, particularly abaft the starboard side, suggesting that older vessels may require attention to deck fittings and re-bedding to prevent leaks. However, overall sentiment tends to be favorable, with owners highlighting the boat's enduring appeal and reliability.