Young Sun 43 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Young Sun 43 commenced in 1978, aligning with an era when Taiwanese builders like Young Sun were cementing their reputation for crafting robust, heavy-displacement vessels. While specific details on the conclusion of its production run are not extensively documented, models appear on the market predominantly from the late 1970s into the mid-1980s. Designer Ron Amy's vision for the Young Sun 43 aligned perfectly with the builder's ethos of prioritizing quality over mass quantity, focusing on durable construction and seaworthy characteristics.

The Young Sun 43 features a solid Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) hull, known for its exceptional thickness and strength, a testament to the builder's commitment to creating capable offshore yachts., 10] A signature design element is its long keel, which provides superior directional stability, a critical attribute for comfortable and secure offshore passages., 4] Throughout its production, the Young Sun 43 offered versatility, appearing in both center cockpit and aft cockpit configurations, with the option of a pilothouse. Furthermore, owners could choose from various rigging configurations, with the cutter rig being a popular choice for long-distance cruisers due to its flexible sail plan., 4] Early models also presented up to four distinct interior layouts, catering to diverse cruising preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Young Sun 43 is characterized as a heavy displacement sailboat, a trait evident in its high Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 355. This substantial displacement contributes significantly to its comfortable motion in a seaway and its ability to carry considerable stores for extended voyages. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 16.5, the Young Sun 43 is not designed as a light-air racer but rather as a steady cruiser. However, its cutter rig provides versatility, allowing it to perform reasonably well across a range of wind conditions.

Despite its heavy build, the Young Sun 43 is described as a "reasonably good performer" that offers a "nice ride and tracks well" once underway. Her long keel is instrumental in providing excellent directional stability, outperforming similar boats with fin keels in this regard, making for a less fatiguing helm on long passages. Owners report a comfortable cruising speed of approximately six knots under sail. The boat is noted for its stability and stiffness, possessing "excellent righting capability if capsized," which instills confidence in challenging conditions. Its design also hints at a slightly more "speedy hull design" compared to many similar heavy cruisers, being "slimmer than 73% of all other designs."

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Young Sun 43 is renowned for its spaciousness and comfortable liveaboard potential, typically featuring a generous headroom of 6 feet 3 inches. The craftsmanship is evident throughout, with interiors often finished in gorgeous teak or beautiful mahogany, complemented by classic teak and holly cabin soles.

Layouts varied, but common configurations include two private cabins, often a V-berth forward and an aft cabin, providing ample privacy for two couples or a family. Many models feature a practical two-head layout. The center cockpit and pilothouse versions offer distinct interior advantages, such as a protected inside steering station, enhancing comfort in adverse weather. The salon typically offers comfortable seating and dining areas, while the galley is well-equipped for extended cruising. Owners frequently appreciate the plentiful opening bronze ports, which ensure excellent ventilation below deck. The boat is also typically fitted with substantial deck hardware, including heavy-duty davits and "granny bars," emphasizing its robust, go-anywhere design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Young Sun 43 for its solid construction and the overall dependable performance it offers for serious cruising., 14] These vessels continue to be highly sought after in the pre-owned market by those who value their sturdy build and timeless classic lines, making them an enduring choice for experienced cruisers and those seeking a reliable platform for extended voyages. While owning an older vessel often requires a hands-on approach to maintenance due to age, the rewarding experience of sailing a boat built for the rigors of the sea, coupled with its dependable performance and classic aesthetic, fosters close-knit communities among Young Sun owners. A recurring maintenance consideration noted by some owners is the need to address original teak decks, with some opting for removal or restoration.