Buying a used 43DS - concerns

[pj3250]

Hi
I'm purchasing a used 43DS. I am concerned about a couple of things that I'm hoping I may find some direction on from those that seem to know.
I am firstly concerned about the windage the boat seems to have. Has this been a concern? It seems to be able to sail with any canvas up if there are strong winds. My concern is bringing it into port when the winds are heavy.
The other concern I have is the boat I am purchasing has the smaller
54 HP engine instead of the larger 75 HP engine. How much of an issue is this?
I Would really appreciate comments on these issues.
Thanks
PJ

[grantgoulding]

I have a 42DS with the 54hp Yanmar and would have thought the 75hp was probably unnecessary. In terms of performance there is no point in having an engine bigger than one that can push the boat at hull speeed which is why I suspect the 42 has the smaller engine. We can manage 7.5 - 8 knots at 2500rmp with a clean hull and light winds. Any larger and you will simply use more diesel. As regards windage - yes there is more. The 42ds is of better profile (marginally) but without the bow thruster there are times when you would struggle or even not manage certain manouvers without springs etc. The answer is of course ensure you have one though always assume you may lose it at any moment!
Grant

[pj3250]

Thanks Grant
Appreciate your comments
pj3250

[Freya of Salcombe]

We have a 40.3 with the 56hp Yanmar....more than enough to drive her at hull-speed.
Shouldn't worry unless you sail somewhere with 15 knot tides!!

[gerki]

I have a 43 DS with the 54 hp Yanmar. It's enough of an engine. At 3000 rpm we make 7,5-8 kn. In strong headwinds we are still able to make 7. 2500 rpm produces 7-7,5 nkots.

About the windage. We have a bowtruster which helps a lot. Problem with the wind will occur if you have too less speed (the keel looses its function) when approaching the berth.

I normally try to get a short spring from the middle and backwards in place first, you can then safely motor in and keep it close to the berth while tying her up, in basically any wind (even without bowtruster).

We are laying next to a couple of Bavarias, which seems to have more surface towards the wind sice they have a higher hull. The 43 DS is a hull from the 43 ft sailing cruiser and the deck saloon might only make it 4-5 inches higher, so it's not that bad or extreme in any way.

/Gert