NEW BOAT TEST GRAND SOLEIL 43 OT
ACCOMMODATION
There are two layouts: one has The fridge is good and
a linear galley and forward- there’s stowage in lockers
facing chart table, the other an and drawers. One annoying
L-shaped galley to starboard thing is the cover for the
and straight settee to port with chainplate, which stands
an aft-facing chart table. I proud of the galley sole by
would suggest the latter would some 50mm, inviting you to 2
suit longer term cruising better. trip over it – which we did
several times.
1 Saloon the second to port at the
Long windows and light wood 3 Navigation foot of the companionway
keep the saloon bright, but Our boat had the full-on steps. The latter isn’t huge, 3
only two small ports plus hatch navigation station to starboard but big enough to shower in
let air in. Headroom is 1.97m with a roomy chart table, and useable at sea. Stowage
(6ft 2in), which is a little low, separate seat (containing the is good, as is the 1.85m (6ft
but it’s easy to move about battery charger), drawers for 1in) headroom and there is an
with clear floor space. bosun’s stores in the plinth easily cleaned, moulded sink.
Dining area was limited in and a deep bin alongside.
our boat with the port settee A bookshelf would be nice. 5 After cabins
seating just four. However, a There is a comprehensive, Twin double cabins are
second bench seat is available, high quality electrics panel identical in both layouts and
which increases this to 6-8 and with gauges and AC/DC offer a sizeable double berth
gives the chef important bodily breakers, as well as a console measuring 1.98m L x 1.40m W
support under way. large enough for a chart (6ft 6in x 4ft 6in), good light
plotter/radar. and ventilation via a hatch and
2 Galley port, and ample stowage and
The linear galley is reasonable, 4 Heads dressing area. Water tanks 4
although a cooker cover Both options have two heads and batteries are fitted under
would increase worktop area. – one en suite to the forecabin, the berths. 4
6 Forecabin
This owner’s cabin has a
large, 1.95m l x 1.75m W
(6ft 5in x 5ft 9in) berth on
the centreline, with seats
each side and a drawer under.
Headroom is 1.85m (6ft
1
5
1in) and there is a sizeable
wardrobe with shelves and
hanging rail.
En suite is a large heads
with shower panel and
separate controls. Floor space
is good and a small hatch
provides adequate ventilation.
6
74 Sailing Today September 09
ST149 New GSoleil
43_RTG.indd 62 16/7/09 12:03:01
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