Formosa 43 Information, Review, Specs

The Formosa 43 began its production run in 1980. While the design is widely attributed to Ron Holland, some early documentation may not explicitly name him, though he is consistently recognized as the designer in numerous databases. Holland's design philosophy typically centered on creating performance-oriented cruising yachts, a characteristic evident in the Formosa 43's capabilities. The builder, Formosa Boat Building Co. Ltd., operated within the broader Ta Chiao shipbuilding network in Taiwan, which gained prominence through its early adoption of fiberglass construction techniques in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Ta Chiao established a strong reputation for meticulous manufacturing processes and building ocean-capable vessels with luxurious teak interiors during this era, a legacy that likely influenced the construction and finish of the Formosa 43. While the notes suggest the tooling might have been utilized by at least two different builders in Taiwan, and some similar hulls like the Formosa 42 (also known as Slocum 43) exist, the Formosa 43 largely maintained a consistent design throughout its limited production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 24,800 lbs and a length overall of just under 42 feet, the Formosa 43 is characterized as a heavy displacement cruiser, evident from its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 299. This substantial build suggests a comfortable and stable motion, particularly in a seaway, rather than the quick, agile response of a lighter vessel. The Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.45 indicates that while she is well-powered, she may require more wind to achieve optimal performance and is not primarily designed as a light-air flyer. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.37 suggests reasonable stability, allowing her to stand up to a fair amount of wind, though reefing would be prudent in heavier conditions to maintain comfort and control. Anecdotal accounts praise her handling, with owners noting her ability to point into the wind and manage challenging conditions effectively.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Formosa 43, in line with the builder's reputation, typically features a spacious and traditional layout, emphasizing comfort for extended cruising. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the detailed specifications, the Formosa 43 is known to incorporate the luxurious teak woodwork characteristic of Ta Chiao-built yachts, contributing to a warm and classic aesthetic below deck, 7]. Grounded search for similar models and owner descriptions suggests common arrangements would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with a dinette, a well-appointed galley, and a head compartment, often with quarter berths aft. The extensive use of wood trim and solid construction would have defined the general finish quality, offering ample storage and a robust feel throughout the living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Formosa 43s often praise the boat's solid construction and its capability as a robust offshore cruiser. However, like many vessels of its age and construction style, certain common maintenance challenges have been noted. A recurring point of discussion among owners pertains to the original teak decks, which, if not meticulously maintained, can be prone to developing leaks and lead to issues with rot in the underlying deck core. This tendency for leaks, particularly around deck fittings, is a known characteristic of some Formosa models from that era. Despite these potential maintenance demands, the enduring presence of Formosa 43s on the brokerage market and the active discussions within owner communities underscore a lasting appreciation for their seaworthiness and classic charm. Many owners express a deep attachment to their vessels, acknowledging the effort required to maintain them as a worthwhile investment for their robust sailing performance and comfortable liveability.