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Sailboat Specifications

Spindrift 43

Cutter · Long Keel

Designed by Ron Amy · Built by Ka Shing (Taiwan) · First built 1982

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LOA 42.50 ft  ·  Beam 12.96 ft  ·  Displacement 34,810.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 1,141.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Long Keel
About the Spindrift 43 Sailboat

Designed by Ron Amy and built by Ka Shing in Taiwan beginning in 1982, this substantial cutter represents classic offshore cruising philosophy with its traditional long keel configuration and robust construction. The fiberglass hull carries generous displacement at 34,810 pounds, with nearly 29% of that weight positioned low in the 10,043-pound ballast, contributing to excellent stability and sea-kindly motion in challenging conditions. The long keel design provides exceptional tracking ability and directional stability, making this boat particularly well-suited for extended offshore passages where steady helm behavior reduces crew fatigue. While not built for racing speed, the cutter rig offers versatility in sail handling, allowing crews to maintain optimal sail area across varying wind conditions through multiple headsail options. With a comfort ratio of 47.12, this design prioritizes seaworthiness and crew comfort over speed, reflecting the era's emphasis on substantial construction for serious cruising sailors. The capsize screening value of 1.59 indicates good stability characteristics for offshore work. The generous beam of nearly 13 feet provides ample interior volume while maintaining manageable proportions for a cruising couple or small crew contemplating extended voyages or coastal exploration.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 42.50 ft / 12.95 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 35.58 ft / 10.84 m
Beam 12.96 ft / 3.95 m
Max Draft 6.33 ft / 1.93 m
Displacement 34,810.00 lb / 15,790 kg
Ballast 10,043.00 lb / 4,555 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 1,141.00 ft² / 106.00 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long Keel
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer Ron Amy
Builder Ka Shing (TAIWAN)
First Built 1982
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Ford Lehman
Engine Type Diesel
Fuel Capacity 250 gals / 946 L
Water Capacity 300 gals / 1,136 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Spindrift 43's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Spindrift 43 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.2. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Spindrift 43's comfort ratio?

The Spindrift 43 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 47.12. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Spindrift 43 safe for offshore sailing?

The Spindrift 43 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.59. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Spindrift 43?

The theoretical hull speed of the Spindrift 43 is 7.99 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Spindrift 43 weigh?

The Spindrift 43 has a displacement of 34,810.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 42.50 ft.

Who designed the Spindrift 43?

The Spindrift 43 was designed by Ron Amy, first built in 1982.