Velja 43 (13 m), the sailboat for living above deck

Making its debut at the 63rd Genoa International Boat Show, Velja 43 is a sailboat that aims to change the perspective of cruising. Designed to be experienced more above than below deck, this new sailboat features a deck layout that is more reminiscent of a power open and an innovative interior space distribution.

Velja 43: as comfortable as a motor boat but it’s a sailboat

Built by Mediter Yachts, a boatyard based in Lucca, and designed by Milan-based Matteo Costa Architecture Studio, Velja 43 has a very unique deck layout. The wheelhouse and all maneuvers are located amidships, easily handled independently by the helmsman without getting in the way of guests and life on board, while aft is developed into a cockpit more than four and a half meters long. An outdoor galley, the only one on board, arranged as an island, separates the more convivial part of the boat from the wheelhouse area.

There are two sundeck areas. One in the bow, with a “classic” mattress built into the deckhouse, and the second in the stern thanks to the transformability of the cockpit. By lowering the outdoor table, from a dining area this area can be transformed into a huge sundeck as is the case on modern motor openers.

An additional design element derived from motor boats can be seen in the transom. That of Velja 43 is open and has a fixed swim platform, with two side steps, that extends beyond the bulwarks.

Without the indoor kitchen

The layout of the interior is also original. First and foremost is the elimination of the galley below deck, which allows for more space in the cabins and bathrooms while maintaining a comfortable central lounging area. Velja 43 is a boat in fact designed to be experienced outdoors.

Entering from the hatch, which is not central but is located on the port side of the boat, what you find yourself in is not really a square, but rather a lounge, with a table and a dinette that can be converted into a bunk. Added to this is a chart table, which conceals a small sink and a stove for cooking when it is not possible to do so outside. Also in the middle of the boat is a bathroom for the two guest cabins, which are located in the stern.

Completing the interior is a particularly spacious forward master bedroom with a large man-high area, a coat closet, lockers, drawers, and a private bathroom with a separate shower.

Velja 43 – Data Sheet

Hull length 13.17 m
Maximum width 4.11 m
Draft 2.05 m
Standard displacement 7,300 kg
Sail area 69 sqm
Engine 35 – 55 hp
Designer Matteo Costa Yacht & Design
Boatyard Mediter Yachts

James Barbaro