Sailing Performance & Handling
The Pilot Saloon 43 is frequently described by owners and testers as a "wolf in sheep’s clothing." Unlike many contemporary deck saloon cruisers that prioritize interior volume over hydrodynamics, the 43 utilizes a hull form derived from the high-performance Centurion series. This heritage provides a relatively narrow entry and a deep, efficient rudder that ensures the boat tracks exceptionally well in a seaway. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the "moderate-heavy" cruising category, the vessel feels planted and secure in heavy air, a characteristic highlighted in technical retrospectives by Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design.
The rig is typically a powerful masthead sloop with double swept-back spreaders. While the standard sail area-to-displacement ratio suggests a conservative cruiser, the boat’s ability to carry sail late into a blow makes it a formidable passage-maker. Handling is further enhanced by the placement of primary winches near the helm, allowing for short-handed operation. However, the high freeboard and windage of the pilot house require a practiced hand during low-speed docking maneuvers, particularly in crosswinds.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The defining feature of the Pilot Saloon 43 is its "raised-level" living concept. Upon entering the companionway, the panoramic windows provide 360-degree visibility from the U-shaped dinette, a feature that transforms the experience of sitting at anchor or navigating in inclement weather. The interior joinery, typically executed in rich Burmese teak or lighter American cherry, reflects the "extraordinary boat" philosophy of Henri Wauquiez.
The model was primarily offered in two configurations. The "Owner’s Version" is the most sought-after on the brokerage market, featuring a sprawling master suite aft with a centerline queen berth, private head, and a separate shower stall. A guest cabin is located forward with its own en-suite facilities. The "Three-Cabin" variant, aimed at families or the Mediterranean charter market, splits the forward section into two smaller cabins. A key technical triumph of the interior is the engine accessibility; the 50hp to 75hp Yanmar diesels (standard for the era) are located under the salon floor, providing excellent center-of-gravity placement and easy maintenance access from multiple sides.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their survey on a few specific areas common to Wauquiez builds of this vintage:
- Teak Deck Longevity: Wauquiez utilized high-quality, thick teak planking, but on many 43s, the decks are now approaching the end of their service life. Check for thinning wood, failing caulking, and potential moisture ingress around the deck-saloon window seals.
- Saildrive Seals: Many units were equipped with Yanmar engines and SD40 or SD50 saildrives. It is vital to verify the age of the rubber diaphragm seal; if it is older than seven years, replacement is a mandatory safety item.
- Window Bonding: The large acrylic or glass panels of the pilot house are subject to significant thermal expansion. Inspect the sealant beads for signs of UV degradation or weeping, which can damage the high-end interior joinery.
- Grid Structure: While Wauquiez hulls are famously overbuilt, the inner grid structure (the "mannequin") should be inspected for any signs of secondary bonding separation, particularly in boats that have seen hard grounding or heavy offshore use.
Community & Resources
Owners of the PS 43 benefit from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the sailing world. The Wauquiez Forever association, founded by the Wauquiez family, maintains a repository of technical drawings and historical data. Furthermore, the Wauquiez Owners Info group acts as a technical wiki, providing specific documentation for the Berret-Racoupeau era boats, including original plumbing and electrical schematics that are essential for long-term maintenance.
The Verdict
The Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 43 remains a premier choice for the cruising couple who refuses to choose between sailing pedigree and living comfort. While its complexity and high-end finishes require a more diligent maintenance schedule than mass-produced yachts, the payoff is a vessel that feels both safe at sea and luxurious in port.
Pros:
- Exceptional 360-degree visibility from the salon and navigation station.
- Category A (Ocean) build quality with a performance-oriented hull.
- The aft master stateroom offers class-leading volume and privacy.
Cons:
- Higher windage makes docking more challenging than the Centurion models.
- Maintenance costs for the large windows and extensive teak work can be high.
- Complexity of systems (tankage and plumbing) hidden beneath the raised floors.
