Irwin 43-CC Mk I Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The production of the Irwin 43-CC Mk I commenced in 1984, marking the beginning of a successful line that would see subsequent iterations, including the MkII from 1985 and the MkIII from 1990, suggesting continuous refinement and popularity within the market. Ted Irwin, a designer known for his dual focus on racing performance and comfortable cruising, instilled in the 43-CC Mk I a design ethos prioritizing livability and practicality. The vessel features a solid fiberglass hull and deck construction, a common and robust building material utilized by Irwin Yachts throughout its operational years. The design includes a fin keel for good upwind performance and a skeg-hung rudder, contributing to directional stability and protection for the rudder blade Data.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 45.5 feet and a waterline length of 35.5 feet, the Irwin 43-CC Mk I is a substantial vessel. Its displacement of 26,000 pounds, coupled with a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 259.66, places it in the moderate-heavy cruiser category, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway. The sail area to displacement ratio of around 17.36 indicates a respectable performance for a cruising boat of its size, hinting at decent light-air capabilities without being overly tender. The ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at approximately 0.307, with 8,000 pounds of lead ballast contributing to its stability. While this ratio might suggest a moderate initial stiffness, the lead ballast, combined with its overall design, aims to provide a stable sailing platform suitable for varied conditions. The boat's design characteristics are noted in general reviews of the Irwin 43-CC series as focusing on its sailing characteristics for cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with long-distance comfort in mind, the interior of the Irwin 43-CC Mk I, like its successor the MkII, is notably spacious, with one review suggesting the MkII is "more spacy than 58% of all other designs". As a center-cockpit vessel, the layout typically offers two distinct cabin areas separated by the central cockpit and salon. While specific headroom details for the Mk I are not readily available in the provided data, Irwin's focus on livability suggests ample vertical space. The interior generally features a well-appointed main salon, a galley designed for liveaboard convenience, and comfortable sleeping berths, often including a spacious aft cabin and a forward V-berth. With a generous water capacity of 185 gallons, the boat is well-equipped for extended periods away from shore, aligning with its design as a capable cruiser Data. The finish quality and material use, consistent with Irwin's production during the era, typically feature a blend of fiberglass and wood trim, providing a robust yet inviting interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Irwin 43-CC Mk I often discuss its attributes in online forums, highlighting both its strengths and common considerations. Many appreciate the robust construction and the comfortable, spacious interior, which makes it a popular choice for liveaboards and long-distance cruisers. There is an active community of Irwin owners who share insights and support, underscoring the enduring appeal and practicality of these vessels.

However, some discussions revolve around potential issues, with one owner noting a leaking fuel tank on an early 1984 model. The general reliability and "blue water" capability of Irwin boats are topics of frequent debate among enthusiasts, with varied opinions on their offshore suitability. Despite these discussions, the loyalty of Irwin owners is a testament to the lasting impact of Ted Irwin's vision on the sailing world, with many appreciating these boats as reliable, well-designed cruising sailboats offering comfort and capability at an accessible price point.