Freres 43 Standard Rig

Description

The Frers 43 is a classic performance-oriented cruiser-racer designed by renowned Argentine naval architect German Frers. This model dates primarily to the mid-to-late 1980s (first built around 1986–1988), with examples constructed by various builders including custom yards like Petronio (Italy/Argentina influences) or Marland Marine, and some production/custom one-offs worldwide (e.g., in Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and the US)—not a high-volume series like Carroll Marine's smaller Frers models. It features fiberglass construction, a fin keel with spade rudder, masthead sloop rig (triple-spreader in many cases), and medium displacement for excellent all-around performance: fast and nimble in light-to-moderate winds, strong reaching/running, good upwind pointing, and seaworthy for offshore or coastal racing/cruising. Known for elegant Frers lines, rewarding handling, and competitive history in events like IOR/IMS races (e.g., Kenwood Cup, Grenada Sailing Festival), with a practical interior (V-berth forward, saloon, galley, head, quarter berths sleeping 6+). Production was limited and scattered (exact hull count unknown but low, likely dozens at most across builders), making it a rare classic today.