In an easterly breeze of just 7 knots true, the Leopard 43 treated us to 5.6 knots on a broad reach under gennaker. On the return leg, with 12 knots of wind and a little following swell, we came close to 8 knots. Encouraging performance for a model whose upwind sail area has increased from 1,255 sq ft (116.6 m²) on the 42 to 1,395 sq ft (129.6 m²), thanks to the square-top mainsail. Despite the increase in displacement, the sail area-to-weight ratio has improved from 8.52 to 8.8 m²/t.
On deck, we appreciated the large, uninterrupted trampoline, made possible by an optional composite bowsprit. Inside, the forward door is, of course, still part of the layout, while the glass windows and their slim aluminum mullions provide remarkable panoramic views. Another clever detail is the cockpit table, whose rotating top allows its surface area to be doubled.
Technical Specifications
Builder: Robertson & Caine
Architects: Simonis Voogd
Length Overall: 42'7" (12.98 m)
Beam: 23' (7 m)
Draft: 4'11" (1.5 m)
Air Draft: 70'10" (21.61 m)
Displacement: 14.73 t
Mainsail: 784/824 sq ft (72.8/76.6 m²)
Genoa: 570 sq ft (53 m²)
Powertrain: 2 × 45/57 hp
Fuel: 159 US gal (600 l)
Water: 174 US gal (660 l)
Price: € 569,000 ex-tax
