More of this Feature • Part 1: Silverton 43 • Part 2: Silverton 43 continued • Silverton 43 Specs • Silverton 43 Deck Plan • Silverton 43 Acceleration Curve • Silverton 43 Photo Gallery
Related Resources • Boat Test Index
Elsewhere on the Web • Silverton Marine

In any given month I spend the equivalent of a full workweek on airplanes to and from a host of boat shows, boat yards, and boat tests. Waiting to board a flight to Florida not long ago, I did my best to mentally prepare for another three hours crammed into coach, only for my Zen-like resignation to be crushed as I passed through the first-class section. How cruel of airlines to confront you with those comfortable travelers sprawled in plush armchairs decked out with all kinds of gadgetry. When I reached my seat back in the 67th row, I took out my wallet and dealt frequent-flier memberships over my cramped lap as if laying down tarot cards. As usual, my miles were spread too thin. When oh when would there be an upgrade in my future?

Shortly, as it turned out. I was on my way to Stuart, Florida, to look over the new Silverton 43 Motor Yacht, a vessel designed for boaters ready for more room and comfort. Owners of smaller boats who have learned from experience to think long and hard before inviting guests on a cruise of more than a day or two will find the layout of the 43 especially attractive. Inside and out, Silverton, which is part of the Luhrs Marine Group, has taken pains to ensure that more than just one couple can enjoy its spaces in first-class comfort.

The two staterooms, each with direct access to a separate head and shower, are configured at opposite ends of the vessel for optimum privacy and designed so that neither owners nor guests have to travel lightly. Stowage in the master includes three cedar-lined hanging lockers plus an assortment of large drawers and lockers beneath the queen-size island berth. In the guest stateroom there is just one hanging locker, but the elevated double island berth has four large drawers, two corner lockers, and a bin beneath the innerspring mattress that you can also access through a hatch on the side.

In another move that will contribute to onboard harmony, both the head and shower forward and the en suite head and shower in the master are split. This configuration solves the potential irritation, not uncommon in a conventional head, of the entire space beading up with moisture after a couple of showers. In addition, two people can make use of the plumbing simultaneously as long as their needs don’t conflict. In the master stateroom this setup also elegantly opens up the space, extending the room’s dimensions to the full width of the vessel.

But more than just beds and bathrooms come in comfortable pairs on the 43. The cherry-paneled saloon boasts two large L-shape settees—one forward and to port surrounding a skillfully finished table and one aft and to starboard. Their arrangement subtly divides the saloon into separate zones where people will never feel forced together. As guests await dinner prepared in the well-appointed galley, a game of cards can go on at the forward settee while others curl up with books on the aft one. I sank into one of these settees—made for Silverton by Flexsteel, with extra-comfortable cushioning and Ultraleather covering—and it was this coach-class traveler’s dream come true.

Next page > Silverton 43 continued > Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6