Moody 43 Eclipse Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Moody 43 Eclipse is characterized by its significant displacement and high freeboard, which translates to a powerful, sea-kindly motion in heavy weather. While the windage of the raised deckhouse is a factor in close-quarters maneuvering, the hull’s underwater profile—typically featuring a fin keel and a fully skeg-hung rudder—ensures excellent tracking and stability.

A defining feature of the 43 Eclipse is the dual-station steering. While most sailing is done from the large aft cockpit, the yacht features an internal helm station within the deck saloon, equipped with an autopilot joystick or a secondary wheel and engine controls. This allows the skipper to maintain a watch and navigate in inclement weather while remaining warm and dry. According to historical technical summaries from the Moody Owners Association, the boat was often rigged with in-mast furling as standard to facilitate easy short-handed sailing, though this does come with a slight compromise in sail area and pointing ability compared to a fully battened mainsail. With a ballast ratio typically hovering around 35%, the boat is stiff and capable of maintaining a high average speed on long passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 43 Eclipse is where the Bill Dixon design truly shines, pioneered during an era when "deck saloon" was a nascent concept. The raised seating area in the main saloon provides 360-degree panoramic views through large toughened glass windows, a feature that significantly reduces the "basement feeling" found in traditional yachts. This layout makes the vessel an exceptional choice for higher-latitude cruising where sailors spend more time sheltered from the elements.

The standard configuration usually features a "galley down" arrangement, located forward of the saloon to starboard, which remains surprisingly bright due to the overhead windows. The accommodation typically includes a luxurious master cabin forward with a large island berth and en-suite facilities, and two guest cabins located aft under the saloon floor. Because the 43 Eclipse was the flagship, the joinery often utilized high-quality teak or cherry veneers, reflecting the premium positioning of the model. The 43 Eclipse shares its fundamental hull DNA with the more traditional Moody 44, but the deck molding and internal volume of the Eclipse provide a significantly more airy and voluminous living experience.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the unique features of the Eclipse range. The large deck saloon windows are the most critical area; over decades, the seals can perish, leading to leaks that can damage the internal joinery. Inspect the lower edges of the window frames for water staining.

The dual-steering system requires a thorough check. If the internal helm uses a hydraulic link to the primary steering, check for leaks in the lines and ensures there is no "drift" or loss of feel at the wheel. Furthermore, many 43 Eclipses were fitted with teak decks. Given the age of these vessels, original teak may be reaching the end of its life, potentially leading to core dampness if the screw-down method was used. Finally, the engine access is located beneath the saloon sole; while the space is generous, check that the soundproofing is still intact, as the proximity of the engine to the primary living space can result in high noise levels if the insulation has degraded.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and historical documentation is the Moody Owners Association. This organization maintains an extensive archive of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and owner-contributed "fixes" for model-specific issues. Because the 43 Eclipse was a relatively low-volume production compared to the Moody 376 or 33, this association is the most reliable source for sourcing replacement parts or advice on the internal helm systems.

The Verdict

The Moody 43 Eclipse is a rare and highly sought-after cruiser that successfully bridges the gap between luxury motor yachts and serious offshore sailing vessels. It is ideally suited for couples or families who prioritize comfort and visibility without sacrificing the ability to cross oceans.

Pros:

• Exceptional 360-degree visibility from the interior saloon.
• Dual-station steering provides safety and comfort in cold or wet climates.
• Robust construction and sea-kindly hull design by Bill Dixon.
• Spacious three-cabin layout suitable for long-term liveaboard use.

Cons:

• High freeboard and deckhouse create significant windage in crosswinds.
• Large windows are a potential point of maintenance and leakage.
• The complexity of dual-steering and internal engine placement requires diligent upkeep.