GULFSTAR 43
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 43.33 ft |
| LWL | 39.16 ft |
| Beam | 11.92 ft |
| Draft | 3.5 ft |
| Displacement | 21,000 lb |
| Ballast | 5,000.1 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.4 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 44.9 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14.92 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 38.7 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11.8 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 27.25 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 9 ft |
| FLforestay | 14.9 ft |
| Mainsail | 690.2 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 335 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 569.4 sq ft |
About the GULFSTAR 43
Ketch rig: I: 44.90' / 13.69m J: 14.92' / 4.55m P: 38.70' / 11.80m E: 11.80' / 3.60m PY: 27.25' / 8.31m EY: 9.00' / 2.74m Tot. sail area (100% fore+main triangles): 685.91 ft2/63.72 m2
Designed by Vince Lazarra and built by Gulfstar Yachts (USA) between 1976 and 1978, the Gulfstar 43 is a substantial cruising sloop with a production run of 80 hulls. Its heavy displacement of 21000.0 lb and full keel design reflect the robust, seakindly construction typical of late-1970s American yacht building.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize comfort and stability over high-speed performance, particularly those willing to manage the maintenance demands of a classic heavy-displacement vessel.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.73 and a high comfort ratio of 29.6, the Gulfstar 43 is well-regarded for bluewater cruising due to its stable, motion-dampening hull form and substantial ballast of 5000.1 lb.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 40 and O'Day 40, which share similar eras and heavy-displacement cruising roles, though the Gulfstar 43 distinguishes itself with a wider beam of 11.92 ft and a significantly higher displacement.
Performance
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 43.33ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
15 reported issues across 8 systems for the GULFSTAR 43, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a GULFSTAR 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 15 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
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Used sails that fit the GULFSTAR 43
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