PJ-43 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the PJ-43 (Swan 43) in 1969 marked Nautor's early collaboration with the legendary American naval architects Sparkman & Stephens, a partnership that profoundly shaped the brand's classic era. Sparkman & Stephens were known for designing yachts that blended speed with seaworthiness, often featuring graceful overhangs, moderate displacement, and well-balanced hulls. For the Swan 43, their philosophy aimed to create a yacht capable of competitive racing under the IOR rule of the era, while still providing comfortable cruising amenities for extended voyages. Nautor, under Pekka Koskenkyla's vision, was pioneering the use of fiberglass in large yacht construction, a significant innovation that allowed for consistent quality and durable hulls, setting a new standard for yacht building at the time.

During its production run, the Swan 43 saw some variations, notably the availability of a "tall rig" option, which increased sail area for enhanced performance in lighter winds. While not typically designated as distinct MkI or MkII versions, these rig variations offered owners choices tailored to their sailing preferences. The original design ethos focused on building a yacht that was both aesthetically pleasing and immensely capable offshore, a hallmark of both S&S designs and Nautor's emerging reputation for quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The PJ-43 / Swan 43 exhibits a distinctive blend of characteristics that define its sailing performance. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.46, she is a moderately powered yacht, suggesting balanced performance across various wind conditions. While not an extreme light-air flyer, she is responsive enough to be engaging in moderate breezes.

Her most striking performance characteristic comes from a high Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 50.9%. This substantial ballast ratio, coupled with a deep 6.92-foot fin keel, translates into exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a strong breeze and carry full sail effectively. This makes her a very capable and comfortable boat in a seaway, inspiring confidence in challenging conditions.

However, the Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 344.6, indicates a heavy displacement vessel. This suggests a powerful, robust hull that prioritizes seakindliness and load-carrying capacity over extreme speed. Owners frequently describe the Swan 43 as a comfortable and predictable boat to handle, with a well-balanced helm, particularly when properly trimmed. Her skeg-hung rudder provides good directional stability, especially important for offshore passages, contributing to her reputation as a formidable blue-water cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the PJ-43 (Swan 43) is celebrated for its classic Scandinavian craftsmanship and robust joinery, reflecting Nautor's commitment to quality. Typically, the layout begins forward with a V-berth cabin, offering sleeping accommodations for two. A marine head is often situated just aft of this cabin, sometimes accessible from both the V-berth and the main salon.

The main salon is the heart of the yacht, featuring settees on either side, often convertible into additional berths, and a robust centerline or fold-down table. This arrangement creates a comfortable and secure space for dining and relaxation, even in a seaway. The galley is usually located along one side, often to port, equipped with a stove, oven, and sink, designed for functionality offshore. Storage is generally ample throughout the vessel, with numerous lockers and drawers. Opposite the galley, to starboard, there is typically a navigation station, a crucial element for a boat designed for serious cruising, complete with chart table and instrument panel. Aft of the nav station or galley, depending on the specific layout, quarter berths or a small aft cabin might be found. The general finish quality is high, with extensive use of rich wood trim (often teak), creating a warm and traditional marine interior. Ventilation is provided by deck hatches and opening ports, common for yachts of her era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the PJ-43 / Swan 43 consistently praise the vessel for its exceptional build quality and its remarkable ability to handle challenging sea conditions. Many highlight its robust construction, noting that these boats have stood the test of time and remain capable offshore cruisers. The yacht's stability and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently cited as major strengths, instilling confidence during long passages. The classic Sparkman & Stephens lines and the timeless appeal of a Nautor's Swan are also sources of pride for owners.

However, like any yacht of its vintage, the Swan 43 can present common maintenance considerations. Owners sometimes point to the need for re-bedding original deck fittings to prevent leaks, a typical issue for boats of this age. The original electrical and plumbing systems may also require upgrading to meet modern standards or ensure reliability. Despite these potential areas for attention, the general consensus is that the Swan 43 is a well-engineered and highly rewarding yacht to own, particularly for those who appreciate classic design, solid construction, and strong sailing performance.