CAL 43
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 42.65 ft |
| LWL | 32.5 ft |
| Beam | 11.5 ft |
| Draft | 6.5 ft |
| Displacement | 20,000 lb |
| Ballast | 8,000 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.6 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 52 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 17.16 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 45.42 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 17 ft |
| FLforestay | 17.2 ft |
| Mainsail | 863.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 446.2 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 758.5 sq ft |
About the CAL 43
A relatively rare Cal model that was in production for less than a year. Diesel available as an option.
Designed by C. William Lapworth and built by Jensen Marine (USA) between 1971 and 1972, the CAL 43 is a rare vessel with only 14 hulls produced. Its substantial 20000.0 lb displacement and 33.62 comfort ratio reflect a heavy, motion-dampened cruising platform typical of early 1970s American production.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and those seeking a solid, heavy-displacement platform for protected waters, provided they are prepared for significant structural maintenance.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low 1.7 capsize ratio and 260.09 D/L ratio, the hull form is inherently stable and safe offshore, but critical structural issues with the deck core and mast step must be resolved before considering bluewater passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other early 1970s heavy-displacement American cruisers like the Cal 40 or O'Day 38, the CAL 43 shares similar fin-keel sloop configurations and robust build quality, though it is significantly rarer.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CAL 43 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 42.65ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 7 systems for the CAL 43, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CAL 43? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 10 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your CAL 43?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the CAL 43
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…