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Saga 43
Designer: Robert Perry  ·  Builder: Saga Yachts/Saga Marine  ·  First built: 1996
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About the Saga 43

Built by Saga Yachts of Ontario, Canada, the Saga 43 carries a strong reputation among serious bluewater cruisers who prioritize quality construction and seaworthy design. Saga developed a loyal following by producing well-built, offshore-capable sailboats aimed at experienced sailors who wanted a capable passage-maker without sacrificing comfort or performance. The Saga 43 reflects that philosophy throughout its design, offering a hull suited to open-water passages as well as extended coastal cruising. Saga boats are generally known for their sturdy construction, thoughtful deck layouts, and well-finished interiors, making them attractive to couples or small crews planning extended voyages. The brand positioned itself in the premium cruising market, and the 43 sits comfortably within that tradition. For buyers researching a capable bluewater cruiser with a respected Canadian pedigree, the Saga 43 is worth serious consideration. Its combination of offshore readiness and livability makes it a practical choice for those planning coastwise passages or longer ocean crossings. Finding one in good condition would represent a solid platform for ambitious cruising adventures.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 43.25 ft / 13.18 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 38.92 ft / 11.86 m
Beam 12.00 ft / 3.66 m
Max Draft 6.25 ft / 1.91 m
Displacement 19,842.00 lb / 9,000 kg
Ballast 7,800.00 lb / 3,538 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 952.00 ft² / 88.44 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/bulb & spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG balsa core hull & deck
Designer Robert Perry
Builder Saga Yachts/Saga Marine
First Built 1996
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Performance Ratios
PHRF Rating PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) is a national racing handicap measured in seconds per nautical mile. Lower values indicate faster boats. Ratings are sourced from US Sailing's national database (median across 60+ regional fleets).
Under 0 — Ultralight racer0–90 — Performance racer90–150 — Cruiser/racer150–210 — Typical cruiserOver 210 — Heavy/slow cruiser
81
SA/Displacement Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
20.86
Comfort Ratio Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
27.86
Capsize Screening Formula The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
1.78
Hull Speed Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions. 8.36
S# (Speed Number) The Speed Number (S#) is a quick performance index. Higher values indicate a faster, more powerful design relative to its size.
Under 3.0 — Slow cruiser3.0–5.0 — Average cruiser5.0–7.0 — Performance cruiserOver 7.0 — Racer
3.68
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 1.0
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 58.17
J (Foretriangle Base) 15.66
P (Mainsail Luff) 51.0
E (Mainsail Foot) 16.5
SPL/TPS 18.25
SA Fore 455.47
SA Main 420.75
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