Outremer 40/43 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Outremer 40/43 is widely regarded as a "driver’s boat." Unlike modern production catamarans that rely on fixed keels, the 40/43 utilizes deep daggerboards, allowing it to point significantly higher into the wind—often achieving tacking angles comparable to performance monohulls. This configuration also allows the boards to be raised for downwind sailing or for venturing into shallow anchorages. According to editorial retrospectives by Multihulls World, the boat is exceptionally sensitive to weight; when kept light, it can easily maintain double-digit speeds in moderate breezes.

The steering feel is frequently cited as a highlight. While many were fitted with wheels, some owners opted for the iconic Outremer tiller arrangement, which provides direct feedback rarely found on multihulls. Because of the narrow hulls, the boat lacks the "hobby-horsing" motion common in wider, more buoyant designs. However, the trade-off for this performance is a lower bridge-deck clearance compared to modern standards, which can lead to occasional slamming in choppy head seas if the boat is overloaded.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Outremer 40/43 reflects its mission as a serious offshore voyager rather than a floating charter platform. The saloon is functional and compact, providing excellent 360-degree visibility but lacking the sprawling floor space found in contemporary "condo-cats." The hulls are narrow to minimize drag, which means the cabins—typically located in the bow and stern of each hull—are cozy and utilitarian.

Several variations exist within the fleet. The "Club" version was often more basic, intended for performance-oriented owners, while the "Custom" or later 43-foot versions often featured more refined woodwork and additional amenities. The Outremer 43 sibling is generally preferred on the brokerage market because the extended sugar scoops significantly improve the boat's behavior in a following sea and provide a more stable platform for boarding a dinghy. Despite the limited interior volume, the layout is celebrated for its safety at sea, featuring plenty of handholds and a galley-up design that keeps the cook secure while underway.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Outremer 40/43 gained legendary status through the exploits of early blue-water pioneers who proved that a lightweight catamaran could safely circumnavigate. The model's reputation was solidified by its consistent performance in the ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers), where early Outremers frequently outpaced much larger vessels. While it lacks the "YouTube-famous" status of the brand's newer 45 and 51 models, it remains a cult classic among the "fast cruiser" community and is frequently discussed in technical deep-dives on performance multihull forums as the benchmark for attainable speed.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Outremer 40/43 with a focus on structural integrity and weight management.

• Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the trunks for stress cracks or water ingress. Impact with the seabed can damage the trunk structure, which is a complex repair.
• Balsa Core Decks: While the hulls are typically solid laminate below the waterline, the decks use a balsa core to save weight. Use a moisture meter to check for soft spots around stanchions, cleats, and the mast step.
• Weight Sensitivity: Verify the current displacement. Many older 40/43s have been "fattened" by years of added equipment (large battery banks, heavy dinghies, washing machines), which significantly degrades the sailing performance and safety margins.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Given the age of these vessels, the standing rigging and the glassed-in chainplates should be scrutinized for fatigue, especially if the boat has been raced or pushed hard in trade-wind conditions.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical information is the Grand Large Yachting ecosystem, which provides support for legacy models. Owners also frequent the Outremer Cup, an annual rally and training event in La Grande Motte, France, which fosters a tight-knit community of performance catamaran enthusiasts. Technical discussions are often hosted within the "Outremer Owners" groups, though these are largely private networks for verified hull owners.

The Verdict

The Outremer 40/43 remains one of the most respected performance catamarans ever built, offering a level of sea-kindliness and speed that few modern cruisers can match.

Pros

• Exceptional upwind performance thanks to deep daggerboards.
• Lightweight, robust construction suited for serious ocean crossings.
• Direct and engaging steering feedback, especially in tiller-steered versions.
• High resale value due to the "cult" status of Gérard Danson designs.

Cons

• Limited interior living space and storage compared to modern catamarans.
• Low bridge-deck clearance can cause slamming in certain sea states.
• Very sensitive to being overloaded; requires a disciplined approach to cruising gear.
• The narrow hulls can make the interior feel cramped for long-term living with a large crew.