Nautor 43 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Nautor 43, designated as S&S #2239, began production in 1976 and continued until 1979, emerging during a period when Nautor was cementing its reputation for fiberglass yachts that combined traditional Finnish boat-building excellence with modern materials. This model was a product of Nautor's significant partnership with Sparkman & Stephens (S&S), the legendary American design firm responsible for many iconic early Swan models. 18, 23, G1, G18 S&S designs for Nautor were known for their blend of speed, seaworthiness, and aesthetic appeal, and the 43 was no exception.

During its production run, the Nautor 43 was offered in both sloop and ketch rig configurations, providing owners with flexibility to suit their sailing preferences. Notably, the hull design proved so successful that it later formed the basis for the Nauticat 43, a testament to its enduring quality and functionality. Nautor's ethos during this era, championed by founder Pekka Koskenkyla, focused on crafting high-quality, high-performance vessels that were both robust and utilized advanced fiberglass construction techniques. G1, G5, G11 The Nautor 43 stands as a prime example of this commitment to excellence, with many vessels still actively sailing decades after their launch.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nautor 43 boasts a design that prioritizes seaworthiness and a comfortable motion over outright light-air speed, making her a formidable offshore cruiser. With a displacement of 31,967 lbs and a waterline length of 31.42 feet, her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 460 indicates a heavy displacement vessel. This characteristic generally translates to a steady and predictable ride, particularly when encountering challenging sea conditions.

Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, calculated at approximately 13.19 (using the reported sail area of 832 sq ft), suggests that while she may not be the quickest in very light breezes, she will likely come alive and perform well as the wind increases. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 28.2% indicates a moderately ballasted hull. While this is not an exceptionally high figure, Nautor's renowned build quality and stiff hull construction contribute to the boat's overall stability and ability to stand up to a breeze.

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Nautor 43 for its quality of design and workmanship, noting its "true Swan yacht" characteristics. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the Nautor 43 exhibits excellent sailing characteristics and may even handle better than some larger Nautor models of its time, pointing to a well-balanced helm and responsive feel.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior layouts for the original Nautor 43 can vary based on individual vessel outfitting and potential refits over the decades, Nautor Swan yachts from this era are generally celebrated for their beautifully built, modern, and cozy interiors. Crafted with a focus on quality and functionality, the accommodations typically reflect the robust nature of the boat, intended for comfortable extended cruising.

Expect to find a traditional interior arrangement, usually featuring a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a well-appointed galley designed for offshore use. A dedicated navigation station is standard for serious cruising yachts of this caliber. Given the 13.78-foot beam, the Nautor 43 offers ample interior volume, allowing for comfortable living spaces and good storage throughout the vessel. Interior finishes would have utilized high-quality wood trim and robust marine-grade materials, contributing to the timeless appeal and durability of Swan yachts.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nautor 43 consistently commend the vessel for its solid construction and sound engineering. Many attest to the fact that these boats, even after several decades, remain structurally strong and capable, a testament to Nautor's rigorous building standards. Common feedback highlights the yacht's seaworthiness and comfortable motion offshore, which aligns with its heavy-displacement design.

When discussing potential issues, no significant systemic problems are widely reported for the Nautor 43; owners generally report "no real issues at all with the 43s that I am aware of." As with any classic yacht of this vintage, typical maintenance considerations revolve around the upkeep of original systems, deck fittings, and the enduring beauty of its teak joinery, which requires diligent care. The strong owner community often shares resources and advice, further underlining the enduring appeal and support for this classic Sparkman & Stephens-designed Swan.