Swan 43 (Holland) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Swan 43 (Holland) entered production in 1985 and was built until 1990, during a period when Nautor's Swan was evolving its design partnerships. Following the influential Sparkman & Stephens era, Ron Holland collaborated with Nautor Swan between 1978 and 1981, designing five distinct models, including the Swan 43. Holland's design philosophy typically prioritizes interpreting the client's goals, often resulting in boats that excel in performance while maintaining seaworthiness and comfort. The Swan 43 (Holland) reflects this ethos, aimed at being a capable cruiser-racer.

Nautor's manufacturing ethos during this era was characterized by an unwavering commitment to excellence, combining Finnish boat-building traditions with modern materials. They were pioneers in the use of fiberglass for hull construction, ensuring consistent quality and robust vessels designed for serious bluewater cruising. The Swan 43 (Holland) was offered with various keel and rig combinations to cater to different owner preferences and sailing styles. A standard shoal keel was available, along with a deep keel option (7.7' draft) and a taller rig for enhanced performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.62, the Swan 43 (Holland) presents a balanced profile, indicating solid performance across a range of wind conditions, rather than being an extreme light-air specialist or heavy-air slug. Its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 274.37 places it firmly in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser. This suggests a boat with a comfortable motion in a seaway, capable of covering significant distances, yet still responsive enough to be enjoyable at the helm.

The ballast to displacement ratio (Ballast/D) of approximately 0.37, coupled with its lead keel and fiberglass hull, contributes to good stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a fair amount of wind without excessive heeling. Owners and enthusiasts frequently praise the Swan 43 (Holland) for its excellent sailing characteristics and rewarding performance, highlighting its ability to be both raced and cruised effectively. The spade rudder further enhances maneuverability and responsiveness, contributing to a balanced and predictable handling experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom details for the Swan 43 (Holland) are not always readily available, Nautor Swan boats are generally known for their beautifully built and comfortable interiors. The interior of the Swan 43 (Holland) typically features a classic teak finish, a durable and aesthetically pleasing material commonly used in high-quality yachts of its era. The design often incorporates a slightly more spacious hull, which translates to a comfortable living environment below deck.

The general interior arrangement usually includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dining table, a well-appointed galley, and a navigation station. A head with shower facilities is standard. Given Nautor's reputation, one can expect high-quality joinery, ample storage throughout the boat, and thoughtful ventilation for comfort during extended cruises. The cockpit is often described as spacious and comfortable, offering a secure and enjoyable space for both sailing and relaxation.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Swan 43 (Holland) consistently commend its robust construction and enduring quality, often noting that these vessels, even decades after their build, remain highly capable and desirable. Many owners value the boat's versatility, appreciating its ability to perform well in races while still offering the comfort and seaworthiness required for extended cruising. The "S&S Swan Association" forums contain discussions from owners who actively live aboard and cruise full-time on their Swan 43s, underscoring their confidence in the boat's bluewater capabilities.

While specific common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues for this particular model are not extensively highlighted in general reviews, the condition of any older yacht is heavily dependent on the maintenance and upkeep performed by previous owners. General considerations for a boat of this vintage might include checking for water intrusion, a common issue in older vessels, though this is not specifically tied to the Swan 43 (Holland). Overall, the consensus among owners is that the Swan 43 (Holland) is a rewarding yacht to own, providing a solid platform for diverse sailing endeavors.