Outremer 38/43 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The 38/43 is often described as a "rocket" by those who have helmed it. Its performance is rooted in an exceptionally low displacement-to-length ratio, with the light-ship weight often cited around 3.8 to 4.2 tons—staggeringly light for a 43-foot cruising multihull. The narrow hulls minimize drag, allowing the boat to reach double-digit speeds in light airs where heavier cruisers would be forced to motor.

Central to its handling are the deep daggerboards, which provide superior upwind pointing ability (often within 35 to 40 degrees of apparent wind) and a reduced draft of just 0.7 meters when retracted. According to editorial insights from Multihulls World, the early Outremer philosophy produced boats that were "spartan, light, and safe," emphasizing high bridge-deck clearance to prevent slamming in heavy seas. While many models feature wheel steering, a significant number of these performance variants utilize twin tillers located aft on the hulls, providing a sensitive, dinghy-like feel that is rare in a blue-water cruising vessel.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Onboard living reflects the "camper mindset" required for high-performance sailing. The bridgedeck cabin is intentionally compact to reduce windage and maintain a low center of gravity. Most models were built with two distinct coachroof options: the "small roof" for maximum performance and the "large roof" for improved headroom and visibility in the saloon.

The layout typically features a simple galley and a modest dinette on the bridgedeck. Sleeping quarters are located in the hulls, which are quite narrow and lack the "flare" found in modern designs, meaning the double berths are usually longitudinal rather than athwartships. Variations in the interior are common, as many original owners customized their builds; some versions include a dedicated owner's hull with a larger head and shower, while others prioritize up to four cabins for crew-heavy passage making. Natural ventilation is generally excellent through forward-facing hatches, though the lack of standing headroom in the saloon of the "small roof" versions is a frequent trade-off for speed.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an Outremer 38/43 with a focus on structural integrity and weight management.

• Bulkhead Reinforcement: Some owners have reported that the original 10mm plywood bulkheads were under-dimensioned for the stresses of high-speed offshore sailing. It is common to find vessels where these have been reinforced or replaced with thicker marine plywood or composite laminates.
• Daggerboard Trunks: The daggerboard cases and the boards themselves are high-stress areas. Inspect for impact damage at the bottom of the boards and check the trunks for any signs of stress cracking or water ingress into the surrounding core.
• Weight Sensitivity: These boats are extremely sensitive to overloading. A buyer should carefully evaluate the "cruising clutter" added by previous owners. Excessive weight from heavy battery banks, large watermakers, or massive ground tackle will significantly degrade the boat's safety and performance.
• Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are generally solid fiberglass below the waterline, the decks often use a balsa or foam core. Inspect areas around stanchions, cleats, and the mast step for soft spots or moisture, which indicates delamination.

Community & Resources

The Outremer community is one of the most active in the multihull world. The most prominent resource is the Outremer Owners Association, which maintains a deep archive of technical documents and refit advice specifically for the Danson-era models. Owners also frequently congregate on technical forums like CruisersForum and Sailing Anarchy to discuss performance modifications and maintenance for the older 38, 40, and 43 models.

The Verdict

The Outremer 38/43 is a "purist’s catamaran" that rewards active sailors with exceptional speed and a visceral connection to the sea.

Pros

• Exceptional Speed: Capable of double-digit averages and maintaining high speeds in light winds.
• Offshore Safety: High bridgedeck clearance and slim hulls provide a smooth motion in heavy weather.
• Simplicity: Minimalist systems make for easier maintenance in remote locations.
• Daggerboard Capability: Allows for elite upwind performance and access to shallow anchorages.

Cons

• Cramped Living: The bridgedeck and hulls lack the volume and "luxury" feel of contemporary catamarans.
• Weight Constraints: Performance disappears quickly if the boat is loaded with too much gear.
• Spartan Finish: Older models often feature basic interior joinery and minimal amenities.