Fairline Targa 43 – The Perfect Blend of Performance and Elegance
Built with Fairline’s characteristic attention to detail, the Targa 43 is a well-proportioned, sea-kindly cruiser that suits both fast weekend getaways and leisurely coastal cruising. Whether you’re carving across the Solent or drifting in the Med with a glass of wine in hand, the Targa 43 delivers a balanced blend of thrill and sophistication.
Performance on the Water
At the heart of the Targa 43 lies its sporting soul. Most models are powered by twin Volvo Penta diesel engines, typically the TAMD 74 EDCs (each 370 HP), although some were spec’d with larger or upgraded powerplants. Combined, these offer around 740 horsepower, pushing the boat to a top speed of 32–36 knots, with a comfortable cruising range in the 24–28 knot bracket.
The deep-V hull design delivers a confident and composed ride, even when conditions become less than ideal. Handling is sharp and responsive, making the Targa 43 surprisingly nimble for its size. In tight marinas, the addition of a bow thruster and excellent visibility from the helm simplifies docking, while the smooth electronic throttle response makes maneuvering almost effortless.
This is a boat for those who enjoy the feel of the wheel, the pull of the throttle, and the exhilaration of slicing through a coastal chop with poise.
Deck and Exterior Features
Above deck, the Targa 43 is clean-lined and beautifully proportioned, with an open cockpit layout that encourages outdoor living. There’s an optional hardtop on some models, but many come with a full canvas Bimini or convertible soft top, which can be retracted for full sunshine or zipped up for protection when cruising in changeable weather.
The cockpit layout is perfect for entertaining:
A wide helm station with twin seats and a commanding view
A generous U-shaped seating area around a folding teak table
A well-appointed wet bar with fridge and sink (some with BBQ grills)
Aft sunpad set over the tender garage
The tender garage is a standout feature for a boat of this size—easily accommodating a small inflatable with outboard and keeping the deck free of clutter. A hydraulic bathing platform on some versions adds an extra touch of luxury, making it easy to launch water toys or enjoy a swim at anchor.
Wide side decks and sturdy rails make moving forward safe and easy, leading to a large foredeck sunpad for lounging under the sun.
Interior Comfort & Style
Below deck, the Fairline Targa 43 continues to impress with a warm and functional layout, finished in classic Fairline style. You’ll find high-gloss cherrywood cabinetry, quality upholstery, and soft lighting that creates a relaxed and upscale atmosphere.
The layout includes:
A forward master cabin with an island double berth, storage lockers, and a private en suite head with separate shower
A midships guest cabin with twin single berths that can convert to a double, and en suite access to the day head
A spacious saloon with U-shaped sofa, dining table, and storage
A compact galley, complete with two-burner hob, sink, fridge, microwave, and solid surface countertops
Headroom throughout is generous, and the boat’s beam offers plenty of shoulder room and floor space for guests to move around comfortably. The two heads both include proper showers, making overnight stays genuinely comfortable for four adults.
Strengths and Standout Features
Solid seakeeping thanks to the deep-V hull and balanced weight
Twin en suite cabins, rare for a boat in this size class
Tender garage keeps the transom clear and maintains the boat’s sleek profile
Beautiful cherrywood interior that ages well and feels premium
Excellent visibility at the helm, making high-speed cruising less tiring
Practical for families, couples, or two cruising pairs
Things to Watch For on the Used Market
Like any boat approaching or exceeding 20 years in age, there are a few areas to inspect:
Engine hours and service history—Volvo TAMD engines are robust but must be well-maintained
Electronics upgrades—original nav gear is likely outdated and may need modernisation
Teak decking wear—particularly on the swim platform and cockpit
Canvas and upholstery condition—sun and salt can take their toll
Fuel tanks—inspect for signs of corrosion or water contamination in older models
With a proper survey and a well-maintained example, the Targa 43 remains one of the best value buys in the 40–45 ft sports cruiser category.
The original Fairline Targa 43 is a hardtop express cruiser (also available in open cockpit versions) offering performance, comfort, and style in a package suitable for both coastal hops and longer passages. Known for its solid construction and deep-V hull, it’s the kind of boat that feels as good to drive as it does to relax aboard.
Key Specifications (Classic Model)
Feature
Length Overall (LOA) 45 ft (13.72 m)
Beam 12 ft 11 in (3.94 m)
Draft 3 ft 3 in (0.99 m)
Displacement Approx. 10,000–12,000 kg
Fuel Capacity 1,300 L (343 US gallons)
Water Capacity 400 L (106 US gallons)
Engines Twin Volvo Penta (typically TAMD 74s)
Horsepower 480–960 HP combined (typical: 740 HP)
Top Speed ~32–36 knots
Cruise Speed ~24–28 knots
Cabins 2 (Master + Twin Guest)
Heads 2 with showers
Performance & Handling
With its deep-V hull and robust twin diesel setup, the Targa 43 delivers quick acceleration, responsive handling, and a soft ride through chop. Cruising comfortably at 25 knots, it can top out above 32 knots depending on engine spec and load. It feels agile for its size and is well-suited to confident helmsmanship, even at speed.
Docking is made easier by bow thrusters and good visibility from the helm, especially with the optional hardtop open.
Interior & Layout
Below deck, the Targa 43 is finished to typical Fairline standards—high-gloss cherrywood, leather upholstery, and well-lit, practical layouts. The interior features:
Master cabin forward with en suite head and island berth
Twin guest cabin aft, also with en suite access
Saloon with U-shaped sofa and folding dining table
Compact galley with hob, fridge, sink, and microwave
The layout is ideal for weekend cruising or short liveaboard trips for two couples or a family.
Deck & Cockpit
The large cockpit includes:
A helm with twin seats
U-shaped seating and dining table aft
Wet bar with sink and grill
Sunpad over the tender garage
Hydraulic bathing platform on some models
There’s plenty of space for sunbathing, lounging, and watersports. Wide side decks and a deep foredeck sunpad make anchoring a pleasure.
Highlights
Stylish and timeless design
Solid offshore performance
Comfortable, practical layout
Great value on the used market
Optional hardtop and tender garage
Watch For (Used Models)
Engine service history—many boats now 15–25 years old
Upholstery and canvas condition
Electronics and nav gear upgrades
Hull moisture levels in older models
Fuel tank corrosion on some early builds
Who It’s For
Perfect for:
Couples or families seeking a sporty cruiser
Mediterranean or UK coastal cruising
Entertaining and weekend getaways
Owners stepping up from a 35–38 footer
The New Targa 43 Open (2018–present)
Fairline relaunched the Targa 43 as the Targa 43 Open in 2018 with:
Twin Volvo IPS 600 engines (435 HP each)
Sleek, modern design
Twin cabins with en suites
Top speed of ~33 knots
Large cockpit and sunroof
This new version is thoroughly modern but retains the original’s spirit of performance and style.
Final Verdict
The Fairline Targa 43 is a boat that ages with grace. It delivers everything you’d expect from a premium sports cruiser: style, speed, seaworthiness, and comfort. It’s a true driver’s boat with the soul of a gentleman’s yacht—sporty without being brash, elegant without being showy.
In today’s market, it remains one of the smartest ways to enjoy premium boating without stepping into the inflated prices of newer 40-footers. If you find a well-kept example with updated systems and good service history, don’t hesitate. This is a boat that will continue to reward its owner with performance, presence, and pure pleasure on the water.