PJ-43 CR Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the PJ-43 CR are defined by its IOR-influenced geometry, featuring a deep fin keel, a skeg-hung rudder, and a relatively narrow beam with significant "tumblehome" (where the hull narrows at the deck level). This design was engineered for superior upwind performance. According to historical technical archives from Sparkman & Stephens, the design 1983 was optimized for offshore racing while maintaining a motion through the water that remains comfortable for long-distance passage-making.

In practice, the boat feels exceptionally stiff and "on rails" when close-hauled. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio typically hovering around 300, it is a heavy-displacement vessel by modern standards, which translates to excellent sea-kindliness in heavy weather. However, like many IOR designs with "pinched" ends, it can exhibit a tendency toward rhythmic rolling when running directly downwind in a following sea—a trait known among owners as the "IOR dance." The high ballast ratio (often exceeding 40%) ensures that the PJ-43 can carry full sail longer than its contemporaries, making it a powerful contender in "blowy" conditions.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the PJ-43 CR is a testament to the golden age of yacht cabinetry, typically finished in high-grade Burmese teak or mahogany. Unlike the more standardized Swan 43 siblings, the Palmer Johnson versions often allowed for more variation in the nav station and galley configurations. The standard layout features a classic V-berth forward, followed by a head and hanging locker. The main saloon is characterized by two pilot berths situated above the settee berths, a common racing-era feature that provides secure sleeping quarters while the boat is heeled.

Headroom is generous for a 1970s design, generally exceeding 6'2" in the main saloon. The "CR" variant often emphasizes cruising amenities, such as larger freshwater tanks and more sophisticated galley layouts (frequently featuring a three-burner stove and deep iceboxes). Because the beam is narrow relative to modern 43-footers, the interior feels cozy and secure at sea, with plenty of handholds, though it lacks the "great room" feel of contemporary wide-beam cruisers.

The most notable sibling to the PJ-43 is the Swan 43. While they share the same lines and mold, the Swan versions were built at the Nautor yard in Finland, whereas the PJ units were often imported as bare hulls and finished by Palmer Johnson in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, or built under license with distinct North American specifications for winches and electrical systems.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a PJ-43 CR should approach the vessel with an understanding of its age and the specific construction methods of the late 1960s and early 70s.

1. Deck Core Integrity: Many PJ-43s were built with balsa-cored decks. Over 50 years, moisture ingress around stanchion bases, genoa tracks, and the windlass can lead to significant delamination. A thorough percussion test (sounding) is essential.
2. Mast Step & Internal Structure: The S&S designs of this era utilized a massive steel or aluminum mast step bridge. Corrosion in this area, caused by standing water in the bilge, can compromise the structural integrity of the rig support.
3. Osmotic Blistering: While Palmer Johnson used high-quality resins, these early fiberglass hulls are prone to osmosis. Buyers should look for evidence of previous bottom peels or epoxy treatments.
4. Engine Access and Age: Many original units were fitted with Perkins 4.108 or Volvo Penta MD series engines. While robust, these often require a complete overhaul or replacement. Access is typically through the companionway steps, which can make major mechanical work cramped.
5. Rod Rigging: If the vessel still carries original or aged solid rod rigging (a common upgrade for these performance boats), it must be replaced regardless of visual appearance, as rod rigging can fail without the warning signs typical of wire.

Community & Resources

The PJ-43 CR benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the nautical world. Technical support and historical documentation are primarily managed through the Sparkman & Stephens Association, which maintains a database of original drawings and hull numbers. While not exclusive to the PJ-43, the S&S 43 Forum and various Nautor’s Swan owner groups are invaluable for sourcing specific parts for the S&S 1983 design, as the hardware is often interchangeable between the PJ and Swan versions.

The Verdict

The PJ-43 CR is a "sailor’s sailboat," designed for those who prioritize aesthetic beauty and offshore capability over interior volume and "condo-style" amenities. It remains a blue-chip investment for those willing to maintain a vintage thoroughbred.

Pros:

• Exceptional Aesthetics: Widely considered one of the most beautiful profiles ever drawn by Sparkman & Stephens.
• Offshore Capability: A proven bluewater cruiser that handles heavy air with grace and security.
• Build Quality: Palmer Johnson’s fit and finish were world-class, often exceeding the standards of mass-production builders.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: The abundance of exterior teak and aging systems requires a dedicated owner or a significant budget.
• Interior Volume: Narrow beam and pinched ends provide much less living space than a modern 35-foot cruiser.
• Downwind Manners: The IOR hull shape requires attentive steering when sailing downwind in a swell.