Offshore 43 (Tanton) Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Tanton Offshore 43 commenced in 1981, with approximately 48 units ultimately built. The vessel was designed by Yves-Marie Tanton, under design number 793, and notably shares its hull with the CT-44, which is characterized as a canoe-sterned (or double-ended) aft-cockpit cruiser. Ta Chiao, the builder, had established itself as a pioneer in Taiwanese yacht manufacturing by adopting fiberglass construction in the late 1960s, building a legacy of robust, ocean-capable vessels. The Offshore 43's construction reflects this ethos, utilizing fiberglass with an Airex core above the waterline for durability.

A defining feature of the Tanton Offshore 43 is its innovative cat-ketch rig, which set it apart from many contemporaries. This unique configuration incorporated carbon free-standing masts and aluminum wishbone booms, a departure from traditional rigging that aimed to optimize performance and simplify sail handling. While the cat-ketch was a prominent offering, the hull also supported other sailplan variations, and a pilothouse version was also available, broadening its appeal. The boat was sold in the US by Offshore Yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tanton Offshore 43 was engineered for capable offshore performance and manageable handling. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.08, the boat demonstrates good performance potential, especially in lighter air conditions, indicating it is not sluggish for a cruiser of its size. Its ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.445 is substantial, contributing to excellent stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up well to strong winds and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of approximately 169.96 suggests a relatively light displacement for its waterline length, hinting at a lively and responsive sailing experience.

Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Tanton 43 as a "good performer" that is "very stable/stiff" and possesses good righting capability. The innovative cat-ketch rig, with its smaller, easily managed sails, contributes significantly to these handling characteristics, making the boat particularly suitable for shorthanded sailing. Tacking, for example, is often noted as a straightforward maneuver requiring little more than a turn of the wheel. This design allows for better comfort and stability when sailing downwind or on a broad reach. The Tanton Offshore 43 is expressly designed for offshore work, boasting a hull speed of around 8.21 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Tanton Offshore 43 was built by Ta Chiao, a company known for its luxurious teak woodwork in yacht interiors, specific detailed interior layouts for this particular model are not widely documented in public reviews or specifications. Information regarding the maximum headroom is also not available in the provided data. Generally, vessels of this size and intended purpose would feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with seating and a dining area, a galley, and a head compartment, often with quarter berths aft. However, without specific published layouts, detailed descriptions of the Tanton Offshore 43's interior configuration, finish quality, or ventilation cannot be accurately provided. One account mentions an interior with pipe cots, which may indicate a focus on more utilitarian or performance-oriented layouts in some versions.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tanton Offshore 43 often form an engaged community, with dedicated forums and social media groups where they share experiences and insights. These vessels are generally appreciated for their solid construction and their capabilities as offshore cruisers. The unique cat-ketch rig is frequently a point of discussion, with many owners valuing its ease of handling and performance characteristics, particularly for long-distance cruising and shorthanded sailing. While specific common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues are not widely reported in general reviews, the enduring presence of these yachts on the brokerage market speaks to their lasting appeal and the quality of their original construction. Owners consistently highlight the boat's robust nature and its suitability for serious bluewater voyaging.