Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 43DS: Panoramic Views from the Salon

Available in 2, 3 or 4 cabin versions, the new Sun Odyssey 43DS from Jeanneau expands on the success of their 40DS. "DS" stands for Deck Salon. Jeanneau believes that this design concept will replace the center cockpit as the configuration of choice for many cruisers.

In the two cabin version, the aft stateroom is very large, with a walk-around queen-sized bed, private head with separate shower, and lots of storage room. The galley is L-shaped with a double sink, double burner stove, oven and microwave.

The wheel is located well back in the cockpit, with the primary winches within easy reach of the helm. The standard sailplan includes an overlapping, furling jib. The sail area to displacement ratio of 20 puts the Sun Odyssey 43DS just ahead of the new J/42L (17.3).

There are two keel configurations available. The standard fin keel draws 6'6", the shoal draft bulb draws just 5'2". Power is from either a 56 or 75 hp diesel with a 53 gallon fuel capacity.

Introduced at the Paris Boat Show and just nominated by Cruising World magazine for its 2001 Boat of the Year award, the 43DS' most prominent feature is the wrap-around view from within the salon. With light coming in from both the side windows and the roof, the salon is very light and airy. Jeanneau has done a fine job of blending the large windows and raised roof into the deck design, avoiding the blocky look of some motorsailors.