Leopard 43 (Moorings 4300) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Leopard 43 was in production from 2004 to 2007, emerging from the reputable South African shipyard, Robertson & Caine. Established in 1991, Robertson & Caine built a strong reputation for crafting high-quality vessels, initially custom monohulls, before their pivotal agreement with The Moorings in the mid-1990s. This partnership solidified their focus on catamarans, leading to the renowned "Leopard" brand. The design philosophy behind Leopard catamarans, heavily influenced by naval architects like Alex Simonis and designer Anthony Key, centers on "integration simplified," aiming for a harmonious blend of easy handling and effective boat speed without compromising comfort.

The Leopard 43, being an evolution of earlier models like the Leopard 42, reflects this ethos, designed to be a seaworthy cruising catamaran suited for warm seas. While most units were built for the demanding charter trade, Robertson & Caine also offered an owner's version with a distinct interior layout, providing greater privacy and liveaboard comfort. This dual-purpose design highlights the builder's adaptability and commitment to catering to both commercial and private ownership needs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Leopard 43 offers a distinct sailing experience compared to monohulls, characterized by stability, speed, and shallow draft. With a length overall of 42.49 feet and a substantial beam of 22.74 feet, she boasts a stable platform, capable of maintaining a good trim across various speeds and sea states. The shallow maximum draft of 4.25 feet is a significant advantage, allowing access to anchorages and shallower waters often inaccessible to deeper-drafting monohulls.

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Leopard 43's seaworthy characteristics and its ability to handle uncomfortable sea conditions. The design emphasizes ease of handling, contributing to a smooth ride. Her reported sail area of 1238 square feet, combined with her relatively light displacement of 19,026 pounds for a boat of her size, suggests good light-air performance, a hallmark of many cruising catamarans. Her twin keels also contribute to stability and directional control. Overall, the Leopard 43 is recognized for its balanced hulls and being an excellent all-purpose platform suitable for various cruising programs.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Leopard 43 is designed to maximize volume and comfort, reflecting its purpose as a capable cruising and charter vessel. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the layouts are known for being spacious. The Leopard 43 was offered in both a four-cabin (charter) version and a three-cabin (owner's) version.

In the more common four-cabin layout, the boat features four double cabins, each typically with an en-suite head and separate shower, making it ideal for multiple couples or larger families. The owner's version, a more luxurious option, dedicates an entire hull (often the starboard hull) to a spacious and private owner's suite. This suite commonly includes a large double berth, ample storage, and a dedicated head with a separate shower, providing enhanced privacy and liveaboard comfort.

Across both versions, the bridge deck typically houses a well-equipped galley and a salon. The salon often features a U-shaped forward-facing galley and opens seamlessly to both the forward and aft cockpits, creating expansive, open-plan areas for socializing and relaxation. The general finish quality typically involves laminate finishes with solid wood trims, contributing to a pleasant and functional interior. The design emphasizes good ventilation and natural light, with features like wraparound panoramic windows and skylights, which are common in Leopard models of this era, enhancing the airy feel of the interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Leopard 43 frequently commend its robust construction and suitability for cruising. Many appreciate the spaciousness and comfort it offers, particularly the owner's version, which provides a dedicated hull for privacy and liveaboard convenience. The boat's handling in various sea conditions is generally well-regarded, with some owners noting its impressive performance even in challenging trans-oceanic passages. The ability to comfortably accommodate multiple guests, coupled with its stable motion, makes it a popular choice for extended cruising and chartering.

However, as with any boat, some common considerations or maintenance points have been noted. While the search results did not highlight widespread, critical systemic issues specific to the Leopard 43 sailing version (as opposed to the powercat versions which had some window discussions), general maintenance typical for boats of this age and type, such as re-bedding deck fittings or addressing wear and tear on original systems, would be expected. The extensive use in charter fleets also means that some boats may have seen more rigorous use and might require more attention to deferred maintenance. Owners often highlight the overall value and liveability that the Leopard 43 provides, making it a favored choice for those seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and space in a cruising catamaran.