Linssen Yachts GS 43.9

Dutch builders have tried every trick regarding liveaboard layouts but Linssen has thought long and hard about how to make life brighter and easier

The 43 is part of this Dutch manufacturer’s ‘9’-series, which means it is built along production lines rather than the pricier Mark II boats that benefit from a custom, hand-built interior and a more shapely and costly to build multi-chine hull. However, that doesn’t mean the 43.9 doesn’t have a choice of layouts – there’s a three-cabin version, which we took out on test, and a two-cabin arrangement that boasts a larger saloon complete with a neat desk/office area.

In our three-cabin Linssen, the main saloon has a large U-shaped settee that can be pulled out to make an occasional double berth. Here, six can be accommodated around the table but most of the time this is going to be used for lounging rather than dining as the TV is neatly housed in the sideboard opposite, while tucked under the companionway steps is a pull-out cocktail cabinet.

The galley is well equipped with a large fridge, hob and oven along with a decent-sized sink. Stowage isn’t bad either, especially as there’s a massive storeroom for bulk items behind the steps that lead down to the forward cabin area. Less abundant is countertop space – although there is always the dinette table adjacent.

Third cabins on this size of craft often feel a bit squeezed in and you sometimes get the feeling the builder shouldn’t have bothered but the 43.9’s is rather inviting. The two berths are a good length and the cabin enjoys plenty of light thanks to an overhead skylight.

A huge drawer under the forecabin’s large central double will swallow up masses of gear and the occupants of this cabin probably won’t need it as it is already furnished with plenty of cupboard space and a large, easy to fall into wardrobe. The cabin benefits from direct access to the toilet compartment with its proper,
full-sized basin, while those in the third cabin will have to nip across the lobby. However, to avoid queues in the morning the teak-seated shower room is totally separate. Back aft the master cabin has all you need for endless nights afloat – a generous 7ft by 5ft berth, side tables, a walk-in wardrobe with shelves and hanging space – and its own en-suite facilities with an enclosed shower stall.

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In terms of performance, it’s important to realise that speed is not what this boat is about. If you’re into taking in the surroundings rather than rushing past them you’ll find that for the most part 1800-2000rpm, giving 6.5 to 7 knots, is just fine. There is a twin engine option, but unless you’re determined to take this Linssen out to sea where the dual power plants would be a definite comfort, opt for a bow and stern thruster instead – it will make tricky mooring much easier.

For the full test see the June 2011 issue of MBM.

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Details

Displacement: 19.5 tonnes
Top Speed: 8.2 knots
Cabins: 3
Fuel Capacity: 185 gal
Beam: 14ft 3in
Cruising Speed: 6.6 knots
Water Capacity: 97gal
Air Draught: 9ft 8in
RCD Category: B
Length Overall: 45ft 6in
Engines: Single Steyr 120hp diesel
Range: 337 miles