The Wally 143 is a new, 43-metre sloop commissioned by a prominent European yacht enthusiast and built around the idea of ‘inside-outside’ living areas. This concept, whereby the interior and exterior are closely linked, is a feature more commonly associated with modern city architecture than boats; and nor is it the only unusual aspect of the Wally 143.

Another key feature is the combination of classic and contemporary design. For example, the deck is characterised by a bulwark that will be familiar to owners of large vintage yachts, yet it’s a design element considered highly innovative in a contemporary boat. The benefit is that the hull lines remain pure while the deck offers more privacy and protection.



The deck layout is a continuous uncluttered area, rather like a converted loft apartment, to give what is effectively an open cockpit some 43.7m in length. While the ‘Esense’ has a forceful, dynamic look, resembling a vast America’s Cup boat, it is not short on comfort as the entire deck area of almost 180sqm (2,000sq ft) can be used.



The stern features the so-called Terrace on the Sea, a 21sqm area at sea level, which can be reached from the main salon. The salon itself can be enlarged by incorporating the two guest cabins, thanks to sliding bulkheads. While the hull is metallic dark grey in colour, the interiors combine paduk wood and metallic white, with exposed matt carbon for the hanging cabinets, the sides of the hull and some detailing. To give a lively injection of colour, there is a splash of red on some of the joinery.



The performance of the Wally 143 is helped by her weight of only 140 tons, achieved using advanced composite building technology. The yacht features a lifting keel to reduce the draft from six to four metres, allowing access to shallow waters without compromising her ultimate performance. The mainsail of 500sqm and jib of 352sqm are said to be easily controllable, thanks to the Wally sail-handling systems.

For further information please visit www.wally.com.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Gilles Martin-Raget, Toni Meneguzzo