The swept-back style makes the C43 look fast, even at dockside. And the high freeboard forward not only knocks down the sea and affords a dry ride, but it allows for more interior volume at a manageable length.
With a plush L-settee flanking a wood table, the aft deck will be a favorite place to gather. Al fresco dining, lounging or just taking in the surroundings out in the open or under the recessed power sunshade will be desired activities.
Carver places the galley aft in the salon along the port side, and for good reason. First, it keeps the cook engaged with guests and family and not hidden below deck. But open the aft doors — three full-sized glass panels; one swings open, the other two accordion to the side — and you have one inside-outside, main-level living space, with the galley now mid-point of the zone.
Features here include a Nova Kool fridge, twin stainless-steel sink with Delta facet, two-burner Whale cooktop with vent and under-counter Cuisinart microwave. There’s ample counter space and vinyl planked flooring for easy cleanup. A hatch in the floor reveals a large storage area with racks to hold 14-gallon tubs and extra space for those incidentals not always needed, like spare fenders and lines, or dry goods. This exemplifies Carver’s space utilization concept.
Across from the galley is a large U-shaped dinette/lounge with high-low wood table. A filler cushion converts this to a berth. Suitable for large gatherings or just for stretching out, it’s also within easy view of the 32-inch LED TV.
Ambient lighting and visibility are maximized not only by the aft glass doors but by the forward double-pane windshield, large side windows and — to top it off — a retractable electric sunroof with shade.
Stay the Night
For overnight or longer cruises, there are two staterooms below that deliver a luxury level of comfort found throughout. Forward is the master with queen island berth, hanging lockers and end tables. Rectangular side windows and an overhead hatch that doubles as an egress point bring in ambient light. An en-suite private head includes a Raritan electric toilet, sink, large fiberglass shower stall and hull window.
A guest stateroom is to starboard and nestled under the helm, with twin berths that convert to a full-size bed thanks to the filler cushion. Opening ports with screens allow for airflow on those pleasant days or cool nights. This stateroom shares the day head, which features a handheld shower, Raritan toilet and hull window. Mini skylights in each head stream in light.
Get Up and Go
Power is courtesy of twin Cummins 480-horsepower diesel engines with V-drives. Not only were the running speeds impressive, with wide-open topping out at 33 knots (38 miles per hour) and cruise around 19 knots (burning approximately 21 gallons per hour), but the power produced easily moved the 24,000+ pounds of yacht through the surf.
Add intuitive maneuvering thanks to the Cummins Inboard Joystick system, and close-quarter handling is effortless, alleviating the dance of the shifters when docking. Interesting is that the joystick is located on the left side of the starboard helm, so when backing down or into a slip, you can stand centerline with a hand comfortably on the joystick and near perfect visibility all around.
The Carver C43 is a fun boat to drive. A Teleflex hydraulic tilt steering wheel with rubber grip accentuates the comfort, while the raised console that houses the electronics (multifunction display, SmartCraft Vessel View monitor, VHF radio, depth and temp gauges) keeps everything well in sight. And with the dual helm seat, the captain stays in the mix as well as the guests.
A modified-V hull that tapers to 14-degrees of deadise at the transom and lifting strakes give the C43 the ability to tackle the rough water while being an economical platform to run across the calm lakes.
Carver Yachts has reworked its thinking in order to deliver a dependable, stylish yacht for family cruising. It’s all here in the Carver C43 Coupe.
Author: Captain Tom Serio
Carver C43 Coupe
Length Overall: 42’
Beam: 13’10”
Draft: 3’7”
Dry Weight: 24,150 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 350 gals.
Water Capacity: 131 gals.
Base Price: $571,650
www.carveryachts.com
