Westsail 43 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Westsail 43 commenced in 1974, with Westsail Corporation delivering 61 hulls. The design, like many in the Westsail lineage, was expertly adapted by Bill Crealock for modern fiberglass construction, drawing inspiration from traditional, proven workboat designs, a lineage that traces back to figures like Colin Archer and William Atkins. Crealock himself was an accomplished cruising sailor and author, bringing practical offshore experience to his designs. The design philosophy behind the Westsail 43, consistent with Westsail's broader ethos, heavily emphasized safety and comfort for offshore cruising, often accepting a trade-off in outright speed for superior stability and tracking, 12].

The Westsail 43 is notable for being the aft-cockpit variant of the Westsail 42, with both models originating from the same hull mold. Throughout its production run, various rig configurations were offered, including cutter, ketch, and yawl, providing owners with options to suit their sailing preferences. Following the financial difficulties and eventual closure of Westsail Corporation in the late 1970s, a few additional hulls of the 43 were completed by other builders; Jomarco constructed six, and Worldcruiser Yacht Co. built two pilothouse versions known as the Worldcruiser 43 Pilothouse.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westsail 43's design specifications clearly indicate its pedigree as a heavy-duty cruising vessel. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.19, the boat is not designed for light-air performance. Instead, this ratio suggests a vessel that will perform solidly as the wind picks up, benefiting from its substantial displacement of 31,500 pounds. The ballast to displacement ratio of around 35% (11,000 lbs ballast in 31,500 lbs total displacement) further contributes to its inherent stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a strong breeze without excessive heeling.

The displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 379.8 firmly categorizes the Westsail 43 as a heavy-displacement cruiser. This, combined with its full keel, provides exceptional directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway, making it well-suited for long passages and challenging ocean conditions. While not built for speed, Westsails are renowned for their ability to track well and provide a secure platform in adverse weather. Owners often prioritize its offshore capability and safety over speed, valuing its dependable handling in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not detailed in the provided data, the generous overall dimensions of the Westsail 43, with a beam of 13.0 feet, suggest a spacious interior typical for a vessel of its size and era. Westsail Corporation often offered buyers choices in interior layouts and customization, indicating a degree of flexibility in how these boats were finished. Anecdotal evidence suggests some boats were sold as kits, allowing owners to complete the interior to their own specifications.

Generally, Westsail interiors are characterized by solid construction and an emphasis on practical cruising amenities. Given the boat's purpose, it's expected to feature a robust and functional layout, typically including a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a comfortable salon with seating and a dining area, a well-appointed galley, and potentially quarter berths aft. While specific details on materials and finishes would vary by individual vessel and original owner choices, the overall impression would be one of durability and comfort designed for extended periods at sea. Descriptions often highlight the "spacious layout" of the Westsail 43.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Westsail vessels, including the 43, consistently express deep appreciation for their boats' ruggedness, seaworthiness, and reliability. The Westsail 43 is often chosen by those who prioritize a safe and comfortable offshore platform over outright speed. The active Westsail Owners Association (WOA) stands as a testament to the enduring appeal and strong community surrounding these yachts, providing invaluable support and a social network for enthusiasts, 14]. This strong community, along with the continued availability of parts through the Westsail Parts Company, underscores the dedication of Westsail owners to maintaining and enjoying these classic cruisers for generations.