MASON 43
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 43.83 ft |
| LWL | 31.25 ft |
| Beam | 12.25 ft |
| Draft | 6.25 ft |
| Displacement | 25,000 lb |
| Ballast | 8,400 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 52.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 17.8 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 46.3 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 18.5 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 27.5 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 10.9 ft |
| FLforestay | 17.8 ft |
| Mainsail | 929.8 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 467.3 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 794.3 sq ft |
About the MASON 43
Mason design S-105. Also available as a ketch. SA ketch rig: 916 sq.ft./85.1 m2.
Designed by Al Mason and built by Ta Shing Yacht Building in TAIWAN from 1978–1985, the Mason 43 is a robust cutter-rigged cruiser with 180 hulls produced. Its heavy displacement of 25000.0 lb and fin keel configuration provide a stable, comfortable platform favored for long-range cruising.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and bluewater adventurers who prioritize seaworthiness and storage capacity over high-speed performance. It is particularly well-suited for couples or small families seeking a reliable, heavy-displacement vessel for extended offshore passages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 25000.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.68, and a proven fin keel design, the Mason 43 demonstrates strong offshore suitability and resistance to capsizing in heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 40 and O'Day 40, which share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and cutter rigs from the late 1970s and early 1980s. These vessels are comparable due to their focus on stability, interior volume, and offshore durability rather than racing pedigree.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(1 certificate)
Measured performance data from ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) certificates.
Polar Diagram
Boat speed (kn) vs. true wind angle. Source: ORC
Racing Ratings
Triple Number
ORC Measured
Sail Areas (ORC)
Speed Table (kn)
| TWA \ TWS | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 4.8 | 5.7 | 6.4 | 6.8 | 7.0 | 7.1 | 7.2 |
| 60° | 5.1 | 6.0 | 6.7 | 7.1 | 7.3 | 7.4 | 7.5 |
| 75° | 5.4 | 6.3 | 7.0 | 7.3 | 7.5 | 7.7 | 7.8 |
| 90° | 5.3 | 6.3 | 7.0 | 7.4 | 7.6 | 7.8 | 8.1 |
| 110° | 5.3 | 6.5 | 7.2 | 7.6 | 7.9 | 8.0 | 8.3 |
| 120° | 5.2 | 6.3 | 7.1 | 7.5 | 7.9 | 8.2 | 8.6 |
| 135° | 4.7 | 5.8 | 6.8 | 7.3 | 7.7 | 8.0 | 8.6 |
| 150° | 4.0 | 5.1 | 6.0 | 6.8 | 7.3 | 7.6 | 8.2 |
| Beat VMG | 3.1 | 3.8 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.9 |
| Run VMG | 3.5 | 4.4 | 5.2 | 5.9 | 6.5 | 7.1 | 7.7 |
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 43.83ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
28 reported issues across 10 systems for the MASON 43, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a MASON 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 28 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 MASON 43?
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Used sails that fit the MASON 43
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