Fastback 43 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Fastback 43 is widely regarded as a high-performance cruiser, benefiting from narrow, easily driven hulls and a light displacement of approximately 15,432 lbs (7,000 kg). Performance is further enhanced by a single daggerboard, typically located in the starboard hull, which allows for superior upwind pointing compared to fixed-keel catamarans. Owners have reported the vessel is capable of reaching speeds of 12 knots under sail, with a comfortable cruising average near 8 knots. The fractional sloop rig is manageable for short-handed crews, and the kick-up rudders offer peace of mind when navigating reef-strewn waters or beaching the vessel.

Mechanical efficiency was a primary focus for designer John Gross. Many 43s were originally equipped with a single diesel engine mounted centrally under the helm seat, connected to a unique retractable "swing drive" or raiseable saildrive leg. This system allows the propeller to be lifted completely out of the water while sailing, significantly reducing drag and preventing marine growth on the drive unit. However, some variations exist, such as hull number three, Arctracer, which was customized with twin Yanmar 27hp engines and fixed shafts for increased redundancy and maneuverability at the expense of slight sailing drag.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Because the Fastback 43 was sold as a kit for owner completion, the interior layout varies significantly between hulls. The standard configuration typically utilizes a "galley-down" arrangement in one of the hulls to keep the main saloon open for socializing and navigation. With a beam of 21 feet, the bridgedeck saloon is spacious but lacks the vertical "condo-cat" headroom found in modern Lagoon or Fountaine Pajot models, favoring a lower profile for reduced windage.

Common layouts include two queen-sized cabins in the forward sections of the hulls and additional double or twin berths aft. Headroom is generally adequate at approximately 6'2", though this can vary based on how the original owner finished the floor and ceiling liners. Because these boats were often home-finished, buyers will find a wide spectrum of materials, from basic marine plywood and carpet to high-end teak and holly soles with professional cabinetry.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Fastback 43 has a dedicated following among long-term cruisers who value speed over amenities. The most documented vessel of the class is Arctracer, which was used by Jerry and Nina for an extensive circumnavigation and years of cruising the South Pacific and Caribbean. Their technical logs provide some of the most detailed performance data available for the model. The boat is also a frequent subject of discussion in Australian multihull circles, where it is often cited as a benchmark for "sensible" performance cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Fastback 43 with a focus on the quality of the original owner's installation and the specific mechanical configuration of the boat.

• Owner-Finished Interior: The primary concern is the standard of the electrical and plumbing systems. Because these were installed by individuals rather than a factory team, the quality of wire runs, terminal connections, and thru-hull installations can vary wildly. A professional systems audit is essential.
• Drive Leg Maintenance: For models equipped with the single retractable drive leg, the lifting mechanism and seals require careful inspection. These systems are efficient but can become problematic if the lifting cables or pivot points have suffered from neglect or corrosion.
• Core Integrity: While the hulls are generally solid GRP below the waterline, the decks and cabin house often utilize foam or balsa coring. High-stress areas around stanchion bases and the daggerboard trunk should be checked for moisture ingress or delamination.
• Daggerboard Trunk: The single daggerboard trunk is a high-load area. Inspect for stress cracking or evidence of grounding damage, which can compromise the watertight integrity of the starboard hull.
• Rigging Loads: The fractional rig puts significant tension on the chainplates and the bridgedeck structure. Ensure there is no "panting" or excessive flexing in the bridgedeck when the rig is under load.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical information is the Arctracer owner's site, which serves as a de facto technical wiki for the Fastback 43. While there is no formal international owners' association, the Australian Multihull World community and various regional catamaran forums in Queensland remain the best sources for finding parts and historical data on specific hulls.

The Verdict

The Fastback 43 is a "sailor’s catamaran" that trades the voluminous interiors of modern production boats for genuine passage-making speed and shallow-water versatility.

Pros:

• Exceptional sailing speeds and upwind performance for a cruiser.
• Retractable drive systems and kick-up rudders allow for easy beaching.
• Large cockpit and social spaces for its weight class.
• High bridge deck clearance reduces slamming in heavy seas.

Cons:

• Inconsistent interior quality due to the owner-finish nature of the builds.
• Single-engine models can be challenging to maneuver in tight marinas.
• Limited head-to-head market availability as only a small number were built.