The Sparkman and Stephens 43 CALIMA sailboat, currently available as a second-hand vessel in Mahón, Balearic Islands, represents an iconic piece of classic and high-performance sailing. Built in 1969 at the prestigious Carabela shipyards near Barcelona, this sailboat combines the essence of American design by Olin Stephens — an absolute reference in naval architecture — with Mediterranean craftsmanship. The length of 13.15 meters, beam of 3.54 meters, and draft of 2.21 meters give it an agile and balanced hydrodynamic profile, ideal for both ocean sailing and prestigious regattas.

The reputation of Sparkman and Stephens as designers is indisputable in the world of racing and cruising sailboats. The 43 CALIMA model is inspired by the lines that gave rise to the famous Swan 43, ensuring an exceptional combination of elegance, robustness, and speed. Initially conceived for a demanding owner, a member of a banking family, this sailboat was a protagonist in numerous national and international regattas during the 1970s and 1975, consolidating an enviable record that includes notable participations in renowned events such as the Fastnet and the Giraglia.

The 43 CALIMA underwent a complete reconstruction in 2000, where the fusion of modern technology and tradition elevated its performance to a new level. The reinforcement of the hull with carbon fiber, the redesign of the internal structure, and the modernization of the deck with Burmese teak have endowed this sailboat with admirable strength and lightness. Its sail plan, specially optimized by Alan Gilbert, and the replacement of the mast and boom with carbon parts manufactured by Nordic Mast, increase the sail area and improve performance even in demanding conditions.

On deck, the Harken equipment ensures precise and safe maneuvers, while the carbon Marconi sloop rig and PBO standing rigging, installed in 2008, provide efficiency and reliability both in racing and cruising. The main sails include a roller genoa, mainsail, and spinnaker, covering the needs of both sporty sailors and those seeking fast and comfortable cruising. The presence of a Yanmar 4JH4AE 55 HP engine, with a folding racing propeller and Saildrive SD-50 transmission, ensures autonomy and responsiveness in any sailing situation.

The onboard electronics include Brookes & Gatehouse Hydra and B&G Hercules instruments, along with a Geonav II-C plotter, providing clear and precise information for offshore navigation. Regarding communications, the Thrane & Thrane VHF with dual antenna, SSB antenna, and GSM enhance safety and connectivity on ocean crossings. The electrical management relies on two 300 Ah AGM batteries for services, one Optima for the engine, and a Mastervolt monitoring system, optimizing autonomy and energy control on long passages.

Inside, this sailboat offers a sober and functional environment, with capacity for eight people in a main cabin, shower, and amenities designed for long stays on board. The space has been designed to maximize comfort without sacrificing weight, making it ideal for both family cruising and racing teams. Extras such as the spray-hood, summer awning, swim ladder, and aft shower add practicality and comfort for daily use.

Located in Mahón, one of the most spectacular natural harbors in the Mediterranean, the Sparkman and Stephens 43 CALIMA presents a unique opportunity for lovers of classic sailing with current performance demands. This sailboat is aimed at experienced sailors, collectors, and racing enthusiasts who value heritage, timeless design, and technical excellence, as well as those seeking a versatile vessel capable of excelling in both competition and offshore cruising. Its maintenance history and continuous updates guarantee an outstanding state of preservation, ready to face new challenges in any sea of the world.