Despite a series of home runs with new boats, when it came time to start on the Cabo 43, we went straight back to the test tank. Why? Because improvement is by necessity preceded by change, and at Cabo, improvement is a never ending goal.

To read articles on the Cabo 43 Flybridge, click here.

Hull Design
Three different hulls were built and run in the test tank at the highly regarded Stevens Test Tank Institute. Three longitudinal centers of gravity and three different displacements were used, resulting in nine different configurations. Strakes were added, analyzed, then removed and further analysis was completed. A total of 184 test runs were made in 5-knot increments up to 40 knots, while spray patterns and running angles were recorded by video and still cameras.

The result? One of the driest and smoothest running hulls found anywhere, in particular on a boat this size. In fact, the 43 runs drier and smoother than many much larger boats, without sacrificing nimble handling, whether at speed or maneuvering into a tight slip. The nimble deep-V hull, has an 18 degree deadrise aft, rides dry and has impressive sea keeping abilities. The 43 rides dry and smooth in a headsea, is stable abeam, and exceptionally agile at high speed. She'll back down quickly, with unmatched control and agility, an invaluable asset when bringing in a large fish. What more can you ask for from a hull?

A very large 43 footer. With optimal hull design and displacement now determined, the design for the balance of the boat commenced. The goal? The biggest feeling, most fully equipped 43 footer on the market. Indeed, she is a very large 43 footer, with accommodations and equipment that you would expect to see only in much larger vessels.

The master stateroom has a roomy forward facing double bed and private head with full shower. An optional home entertainment system makes for great late night movie viewing. The guest cabin has three bunks, with the lower bunk on the starboard side big enough for two, and two additional berths located high on the port and starboard side.

Hanging lockers, vented storage lockers and drawers are numerous and attractively finished inside and out. You'll find top-quality hardware throughout, while joinery and finish work exhibits the ultimate in woodworking craftsmanship.

Innovative use of space is found everywhere, including the location of the optional combo washer/dryer below the companionway steps, which lift up for access. The galley has a Sub-Zero two drawer pull-out refrigerator and a large freezer . Below the galley is a large hold which easily stores provisions, spare parts, or even a collapsed dinghy and outboard motor. The main salon is large and comfortable, with the luxury finish and appointments you would expect from a Cabo Yacht.

There is good under-sofa rod storage, replete with easy pop-up access, saving the trouble of removing any cushions. A Bose Home Theatre system with flat screen TV makes watching a movie aboard as enjoyable as at the silver screen, and standard central vac system means cleaning up the popcorn afterwards is a snap! With a multitude of decorator options, including a wide array of bedding and seating area fabrics, wall coverings, window treatments and flooring, customizing the Cabo 43 to match individual tastes and lifestyles is an integral part of the Cabo ownership experience.

Engine Room

Mechanically, the 43 is everything you expect from a Cabo. The engine room is an easy three steps down from the cockpit, and there's ample room to move around the diesel engines.

Dual fuel filters with a throw valve come as standard equipment. The starboard engine water intake is equipped with a diverter valve, converting it to an emergency bilge pump in the event of severe engine room flooding. Electric fuel primer pumps are standard, and the oil-exchange system services both engines and transmissions, as well as the generator.
Other standard items include a fire suppression system and highwater alarm. Everything is finished in smooth, white linear polyurethane paint, giving it a level of finish that simply isn't found anywhere else but on a Cabo.

Fishability

Like everything on this boat, the cockpit is very large for a 43 footer. At a full 136 square feet, there's plenty of room for a large fishing party of half a dozen or more. Optional helm controls located in the cockpit, however, mean this boat can be fished by a couple. The 50 gallon livewell is located in the transom, and has a unique remote activated drainplug. The backside of the livewell cover doubles as a cutting board. Two 52 gallon insulated fish boxes with inline macerators are located in the sole. Rod holders and fresh and saltwater washdowns are standard. A 50 foot shore power cord uses a Glendinning Cablemaster to automatically store the cord neatly under the deck.

The flying bridge features a comfortable, tournament-style layout with a centerline helm aft overlooking the cockpit. Ladderback helm and companion pedestal chairs built by BlueWater Marine are standard, and there's plenty of room to walk behind the chairs.

Next to the VDO engine gauges is an immense console that can handle a full array of flush mounted, large screen electronics within easy reach of the wheel. Console mounted throttles/shifters are positioned next to the stainless steel wheel. Forward of the helm is a forward facing bench seat with great stowage and a built-in cooler underneath. An additional settee runs fore and aft on the portside.A complete offshore sportfisherman.

While other builders have sought to increase their sales with larger and larger boats, many have found it refreshing to see the innovation and creativity Cabo Yachts has brought to bear in developing a complete offshore sportfisherman capable of extended offshore trips yet still manageable for a couple to operate.

The Cabo 43 does it all.