C&C 43-2 vs Gulfstar 43
How do the C&C 43-2 and Gulfstar 43 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
C&C 43-2 
Gulfstar 43 | C&C 43-2 | Gulfstar 43 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 43.0 ft13.11 m | 43.3 ft13.21 m |
| Waterline length | 34.7 ft10.57 m | 39.2 ft11.94 m |
| Beam | 13.8 ft4.22 m | 11.9 ft3.63 m |
| Draft | 8.1 ft2.47 m | 3.5 ft1.07 m |
| Displacement | 18,900 lb8,573 kg | 21,000 lb9,525 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 5,000 lb2,268 kg |
| Sail area | 847 ft²78.7 m² | 664 ft²61.7 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 19.10 | 13.96 |
| Displacement / Length | 202 | 156 |
| Comfort ratio | 23.8 | 29.6 |
| Capsize screening | 2.08 | 1.73 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 7.9 | 8.4 |
C&C 43-2 vs Gulfstar 43: the short version
- The C&C 43-2 and Gulfstar 43 are close in length (43.0 ft13.11 m vs 43.3 ft13.21 m ).
- The Gulfstar 43 is heavier, displacing about 11% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the C&C 43-2 carries the more powerful rig (19.1 vs 14.0), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Gulfstar 43 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Gulfstar 43 rates better for offshore work (1.73 vs 2.08).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.