Sailing Performance & Handling
The Andrews 43 is defined by its agility and its ability to "plane" or surf in conditions where heavier production boats remain displacement-bound. With a hull form characterized by a fine entry and a broad, flat run aft, the boat excels in off-the-wind conditions. According to Andrews Yacht Design, the design philosophy focuses on minimizing wetted surface area while maximizing the righting moment through a deep, high-aspect keel and a robust sail plan.
On the water, the 43 feels remarkably responsive, behaving more like a dinghy than a 43-foot yacht. Owners often report that the boat "lights up" in 15 knots of breeze, transitioning easily onto a plane. However, this performance requires active participation; the high-aspect rig and light displacement mean the boat is sensitive to trim and heel angle. In heavy weather, the sea-kindliness is typical of a ULDB—it can be a lively and occasionally wet ride when punching into a head sea, but it regains its composure the moment the bow is turned downwind. The steering is generally fingertip-light due to the balanced spade rudder, a hallmark of Alan Andrews' performance-oriented designs.
Interior Comfort & Variations
While the Andrews 43 is primarily a performance machine, it does provide a functional interior suitable for offshore racing and limited fast cruising. The layout is typically utilitarian, prioritizing weight distribution. Most models feature a centralized galley and navigation station to keep weight near the pitch center, with pipe berths or lightweight settees extending aft and forward.
Because Dencho Marine operated as a semi-custom shop, variations exist among the hull siblings. Some versions were finished with more traditional teak veneers and enclosed cabinetry for owners who intended to use the boat for "fast cruising," while others—such as the pure racing variants—feature open-grid structures and minimal amenities to save weight. Headroom is generally sufficient for tall sailors (roughly 6'2"), but the cabin trunk is kept low to maintain a sleek profile and low center of gravity. The use of foam-cored laminates in the interior bulkheads was a common weight-saving measure employed by Dennis Choate's team, ensuring that even the "comfortable" versions remained true to the design's racing pedigree.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Andrews 43 has a storied history in the Pacific high-performance racing scene. Specific hulls like It's OK (though later modified/extended) and Glory became household names in the Southern California PHRF and Transpac fleets. The model's success in the Newport to Ensenada Race and the Transpacific Yacht Race solidified its reputation as a premier West Coast design. These boats are frequently mentioned in the archives of Latitude 38 and The Log as consistent podium finishers in the "Sled" and "Big Boat" classes during the 1990s.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of an Andrews 43 must approach the vessel with a "racing maintenance" mindset. Given the high-load nature of these boats, specific areas require technical scrutiny:
- Deck and Core Integrity: Like many high-performance builds from the 1980s and 90s, the Andrews 43 uses a cored construction (often balsa or foam). Specialized attention should be paid to hardware mounting points; if not properly bedded, moisture can migrate into the core.
- Keel Attachment: The high-aspect, deep-draft keel exerts significant leverage on the hull grid. Inspect the floor timbers and keel bolts for any signs of "panting" or stress cracking, which may indicate the boat has been campaigned hard or suffered a grounding.
- Rod Rigging Lifespan: Most Andrews 43s were equipped with solid rod rigging for stiffness. This rigging typically has a service life of 10-15 years depending on use. Buyers should verify the age of the standing rigging, as replacement is a significant capital expense.
- Rudder Bearings: The large spade rudder is subject to high loads. Check for play in the bearings or "slop" in the steering system, which can degrade the boat's signature handling.
Community & Resources
Support for the Andrews 43 is primarily found through the Andrews Yacht Design office, which remains a source for technical drawings and design history. While there is no formal "class association" due to the limited production numbers, the owners' community is tightly knit within the Transpacific Yacht Club and various Southern California yacht clubs (such as Long Beach YC or San Diego YC), where these boats are still actively raced and maintained.
The Verdict
The Andrews 43 is an uncompromising performance yacht that offers a gateway into the world of "sled" racing. It is not a boat for the casual cruiser who prioritizes mahogany joinery over boat speed, but for the sailor who values tactical precision and the thrill of double-digit surfing speeds, it remains a benchmark design.
Pros:
- Exceptional Downwind Speed: One of the fastest boats in its size class in off-the-wind conditions.
- Build Quality: Dencho Marine’s construction is highly regarded for its strength-to-weight optimization.
- Timeless Aesthetics: The sleek, low-profile design continues to look modern decades after its launch.
Cons:
- Demanding to Sail: Requires an experienced crew to extract its full potential and manage its high-powered rig.
- Utilitarian Interior: Lacks the "luxury" amenities found on contemporary European cruiser-racers.
- High Maintenance Costs: Racing components and high-load systems require frequent and expensive professional attention.
