GibSea 43 (or Moorings 433) Any experience?

[Norman_E]

I have been offered a GibSea 43 and have been able to have a brief sea trial in calm sea and light wind only. The boat is in very good condition and it sailed well and was easy to handle, but given the relatively low ballast ratio (Keel 2800KG to 10300KG quoted displacement) I wonder how well this model performs in tougher conditions. There do not seem to have been that many sold, most were used by charter companies, and Dufour have apparently discontinued the entire GibSea range. Should this warn me off?
Does anyone have any good or bad experience of this model?

 

[Talbot]

A boat designed for charter will have lots of bunks, and pitiful storage. Fuel and water storage may also be limited. If it has been chartered, expect it to be quite tired for its age.

 

[cgull]

Chartered one in Caribbean (Moorings St Lucia) a couple of years ago. Didnt really like it, in a big sea was a bit light, twin helm wheels too small had quite a rought sail St Vincent to St Lucia, really had to power up genoa to keep up to wind. Otherwise quite a pleasant cruiser. Seen a few in Croatia, didnt know they had stopped the Gibsea brand.