intrepid 43 sport yacht review

• THE PRINCESS PASSPORT
• Email Newsletter
• Yacht Walkthroughs
• Destinations
• Electronics
• Boating Safety
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

Sport Yacht Defined: The Intrepid 430

• By Jay Coyle
• Updated: November 26, 2008

intrepidweb445.jpg

I first heard of Intrepid while serving as a design consultant at Broward Marine in the 1980s. Back then it seemed that every new Broward motoryacht owner ordered a new Intrepid. The boats were customized to suit each owner’s interests and served as beloved second boats towed astern. As this generation of yachtsmen advanced, so did Intrepid, building bigger and more sophisticated boats. This memory crossed my mind when I spotted the robust stainless steel tow eye on the stem of the 430 Sport Yacht, Intrepid’s latest launch.

As was the case with the first models, the 430’s soft, shapely lines and innovative layout set her apart from other similar boats. She is Intrepid’s vision of what comes after a large center console and what a sport yacht should be. Whether serving as a weekender, a watersports platform, or a megayacht tender, she delivers performance with style. Like her larger sister, the 475 Sport Yacht , she is a response to customers that liked the smaller 390 but wanted private sleeping accommodations separated from the main cabin. The 430 sport yacht hits the mark, achieving a unique blend of indoor and outdoor space in a smaller, more efficient package. While she has a foot less beam and is four and a half feet shorter than the 475, her arrangement seems competitive.

The 430 sport yacht is trim enough to be towed behind a megayacht and used for water play, yet she is large enough for a couple to spend a week aboard cruising the Bahamas. Our test boat would serve well in both roles as she was equipped for towing and was fitted with optional air-conditioning and a generator. The 7 kW diesel unit was tucked amidships beneath the cockpit lounge and plumbed to a dedicated 25-gallon fuel tank. Incidentally, when I stepped aboard, both the Yamaha four-strokes and the generator were purring along so quietly, I took no notice of them.

The 430 offers many of the design features that Intrepid has pioneered as well as a few new tricks. The slick drop-down switch panel at the helm, the fuel-fill tap hidden discreetly beneath a door in the coaming and the hull-side water access door were expected. The hull-side windows are similar in style to the 475’s. The airinduction system in the foredeck that feeds the breeze to the helm area was something new, as was the electrically actuated seat/sunpad. These creative touches keep Intrepid customers coming back for more. Owners also have a say in their boat’s design. For example a molded arch usually supports the 430’s hardtop but our test boat’s owner requested more traditional anodized aluminum pipework. Her engines were color-coordinated with the hull-a custom touch Intrepid owners favor.

I found the same attention to detail in the 430’s interior. Intricately tooled interior liners form the foundation for the modular high-gloss cherry cabinetwork. The clean and tidy result is accented with quality soft goods and hardware. The galley area has a Corian countertop with a stainless steel sink, a microwave, and drawer-style refrigeration. A nice touch is the self-securing European drawer system with stainless steel drawer trays. A settee opposite the galley converts to a bunk, and a built-in seat and platform berth are forward. The owner’s cabin is amidships, tucked beneath the helm. The head has a separate stall shower. The lighted hanging locker is a nice touch, however the carpet lining seems off key. I would prefer to see cedar instead.

Performance has always been a part of Intrepid’s appeal and the builder has mastered the art of tuning stepped hulls to pleasurecraft applications. Steps are employed to induce lift and reduce drag. Proper ventilation is essential to avoid suction and the 430’s notched chine is effective. Step placement is critical to a boat’s balance and trim and the 430’s seems ideal. She climbs to plane at just 15 knots with no significant bow rise and at speed she is not overly stiff longitudinally. A touch of tab engaged her fine forward sections with the chop in the Gulf of Mexico. Her power-assist steering is silky smooth and her synchronized dual-lever controls are a brilliant solution to a triple-engine setup. And is she fun to drive! I collected our numbers in the calm waters of the ICW and noted a maximum speed of 49.7 knots. The Yamaha electronics indicated a fuel burn of 38.2 gph cruising at 32.8 knots while turning 4000 rpm.

After my sea trial, I took a tour of Intrepid’s production facility in Largo, Florida. Much had changed since my last visit several years ago. New computer-controlled routers have been added and were busy cutting the prelaminated cored panels that form the closely spaced network of stringers, bulkheads, and web frames supporting the hull of the 430’s sport yacht. The same sort of technology was being used to cut reinforcements and interior and exterior finish materials. The most significant update was in the lamination shop where parts-including the 430’s deck and liners-are now being resin-infused instead of hand-laminated. This method creates a consistent resinto- glass ratio that optimizes a laminate’s strength and eliminates unnecessary weight. Hulls are still laminated by hand with solid bottoms and foam coring in the topsides. The ones I inspected in the mold were expertly crafted. All major parts, including the hull, cockpit, and deck, are molded in white gelcoat. Optional colors are offered in linear urethane paint. While Intrepid’s physical facility has grown over the years, it remains a simple collection of steel buildings. It is the innovative spirit within that drives the company. During my visit, Intrepid’s 300 employees were working a six-day week building about 170 boats a year.

Intrepid sport yacht owners have high expectations and the builder always seems to deliver. Many good customers often preorder their new Intrepids sight unseen. Six 430’s were ordered before the first hull was out of the mold. I am quite certain these folks realized a new Intrepid was a good bet and I know they won’t be disappointed.

Intrepid Powerboats, (954) 922-7544; www.intrepidboats.com

• More: Intrepid , Yachts
• More Yachts

First Look: Meet the Apreamare 88 Motoryacht Flagship

Holterman Shipyard Debuts Xtreme X-65

Unveiling the Tiara Yachts EX 54: A Comprehensive Review

Ocean Alexander Unveils the Puro 35P Superyacht

For Sale: 2014 Sabre 42 Salon Express

Performance Meets Luxury: Pershing 7X For Sale

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Boats by Make

Boats by type.

• American Tugboats
• Boston Whaler
• Buddy Davis
• Burger Yachts
• Carolina Classic
• Carolina Skiff
• Catalina Yachts
• Chris Craft
• Correct Craft
• Couach Yachts
• Cranchi Yachts
• Crest Pontoon
• Deep Impact
• DeFever Cruisers
• Dufour Yachts
• Ferretti Yachts
• Grady White
• HydraSports
• Maritimo Yachts
• Mastercraft
• Midnight Express
• Monte Carlo
• Oyster Yachts
• Premier Pontoon
• Prestige Yachts
• Princess Yachts
• Sumerset Houseboats
• Sunseeker Yachts
• Sun Tracker
• Symbol Yachts
• Tiara Yachts
• Trinity Yachts
• Viking Yachts
• All Purpose Fishing
• Aluminum Fishing
• Bay Boats (Flat Boats)
• Bluewater Fishing
• Cabin Cruiser
• Canoe Kayak
• Center Console
• Classic Powerboats
• Classic Sailboats
• Convertible
• Cruiser Sail
• Cruiser/Racer
• Cruising (Power)
• Cuddy Cabins
• Cutter Sailboat
• Daysailer/Weekender
• Dual Console
• Express Cruiser
• Fish & Ski Boats
• Freshwater Fishing
• High Performance
• Inboard Ski/Wakeboard
• Ketch Sailboat
• Mega Yachts
• Motor Yacht/Cruiser
• Motorsailer
• Multi-Hull Power
• Multi-Hull Sailboat
• Personal Watercrafts
• Pontoon Boat
• Rigid Inflatable
• Runabout Boat
• Saltwater Fishing
• Sloop Sailboat
• Sport Fishing Boat
• Submersible Boat
• Tender Boat
• Trawler Boat
• Walkaround Boat
• Weekender Sailboat
• Yawl Sailboat

Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht Review

Home » Boating Blog » Reviews » Boat Reviews » Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht Review

Intrepid 430 Sports Yachts

Where luxury meets a sporty appearance.

Yachts are known for being among the highest stages of luxury on the water, but they do not always have the sporty appearance that people crave with their vessels. This has been a complaint for yacht owners for quite a long time and not many companies have listened. However, Intrepid is among the only boat manufacturers that prides themselves on their ability to listen and bring to reality all of their customer’s request. The product of many years of research and development into exactly what the customers want has led to the manufacture of the Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht and you are going to love all that this boat has to offer.

Made for Travel

Small boats are manufactured fishing or just a few hours on the water, but the Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht primary purpose is for the utmost in luxury while on the water. Taking this vessel along the coast and out into deep waters is the way to travel and instead of relying on the possibility of getting a reservation along one of the busy coastal cities, you can simply stay onboard and have the most restful night sleep possible. Travel becomes much more of a freeing experience when you are not concentrating on check out times and when to be somewhere. With the Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht, you can have the most relaxing travel experiences imaginable.

Accommodations onboard the Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht are able to be customized to your individual tastes, but the base features are luxurious enough for even the most finicky of travelers. Features such as a cabin lounge area with a full-sized berth and an extra bed area enable you and your guests to be comfortable no matter where you travel. The galley area is fully functional with available cooktop, dishwasher, microwave, sink, and a myriad of integrated options to fit your needs. Shower and facilities are part of the package as well. You can truly get comfortable on board the Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht.

To Power It All

Power is essential if you are going to be world traveling oceanic royalty and no yacht would be complete without powerful motors speeding the vessel along its way. The Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht has three of the most powerful engines available, but not only will you get three, you will have the ability to choose from five options. The choices begin with the always reliable and highly powerful Yamaha. The outboard motors manufactured by Yamaha are backed by 30 years of experience and dependability. Mercury and Seven Maine are additional motor choices with available corrosion protection on the Mercury and a 6.2L V8 supercharged Seven Marine option. You cannot go wrong with any of these highly rated choices, but if fuel efficiency is what you are after, the final two options are for you.

Evinrude and Suzuki are known for manufacturing motors that are both powerful and fuel efficient. These companies bring that rich tradition of excellence to the Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht as well. With Evinrude the E-TEC engine allows you to head deep into the ocean with confidence and the ability to utilize the 30% more torque with up to 15 % less fuel consumption. Suzuki brings a powerful V6 engine to the table with sequential electronic fuel injection for maximum fuel efficiency. While others are fueling up their yachts, you will be sailing right past aboard your fuel minded Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht with these motor option.

Lighting the Way

Light within the cabin of many yachts is simply difficult to come by. Apart from the artificial lighting effects, natural light comes at a premium. Onboard the Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht, guests are able to enjoy the natural light flowing through the cabin throughout the day. This remarkable feature comes from the available retractable sunroof over the cabin. On a bright sunny day, you can enjoy the spectacular beauty of the light all while relaxing below deck. This feature is especially enjoyable at night when a romantic atmosphere is in order. Enjoy looking at the stars with the comfort and serenity of the Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht all around you. There is truly no stone unturned within the design of this remarkable luxury vessel.

• Standard Fuel:                                  390 Gallons
• Beam:                                                   12’8”
• Length:                                                 43’0”
• Water:                                                  100 Gallons

The Intrepid 430 Sports Yacht for sale is among the most beautiful sports yachts on the market today and if it sounds like your type of floating palace, you may be wondering where to turn to get you one for yourself. Vessel Vendor has a large selection of boats for sale which includes many Intrepid boats for sale. Browse our online inventory of boats for sale near you.

• ← Prev Post
• Next Post →

Vessel Vendor Author

Vessel Vendor is an online market place that connects boat buyers with boat dealers, brokers, and private boat sellers. List your boat for sale online on Vessel Vendor or search hundreds of listing for boats for sale near you.

Post a comment

Vessel Vendor is the best solution for buying a boat online. Our website connects qualified boat buyers with private boat sellers and co-brokerage listings to allow for the high visibility of available boats for sale on the market. Our brokerage firm and advanced website makes finding the your dream boat at an affordable price easy.

Help & Support

Top boat brands, subscribe to our newsletter.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 2023. VESSEL VENDOR.

Disclaimer: The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Mechanical Disclaimer: Engine hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or the actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise, and major overhauls, as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.

Website Disclaimer: Vessel Vendor is an entity owned by Marine Sales and Charters, LLC – a licensed, bonded, and insured Employing Yacht Brokerage Firm. 

Login or Register for website

• Reset Password

Interested In Learning More?

Save search, delete selected items.

• 2024 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE
• Email Newsletters
• Boat of the Year
• 2024 Freshwater Boat and Gear Buyers Guide
• 2024 Boat Buyers Guide
• 2024 Water Sports Boat Buyers Guide
• 2024 Pontoon Boat Buyers Guide
• Cruising Boats
• Pontoon Boats
• Fishing Boats
• Personal Watercraft
• Water Sports
• Boat Walkthroughs
• What To Look For
• Watersports Favorites Spring 2022
• Boating Lab
• Boating Safety
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

2021 Intrepid 438 Evolution

• By Kevin Falvey
• Updated: October 13, 2021

With honest 3- to 4-foot seas running close together, Intrepid’s 438 Evolution delivered confidence and control at about 32 mph, the triple Mercury Racing 450R outboards revving at 4,000. Still, I wanted to see more.

Throttling back to 3,050 rpm, applying full trim tabs and full negative engine trim, the 438 Evolution stayed on plane at a super-comfortable 17 mph. Many boats force you to either drop down to trolling speed or subject yourself to slamming your way through big seas at speeds in the 20s. While the 438 Evolution’s 53 mph top speed is great, its low minimum planing speed is just as great—and just one feature I discovered about this new Intrepid.

A rough test day also allowed me to discover that the 438 Evolution’s seat cushions do not bottom out. Notably, Intrepid regularly produces custom seating options for owners. I also was able to determine that moving around the boat while underway is safe and secure. This means that handrails are well-placed, such as the one on the back of the helm seat and the bow rail that extends aft to the side-deck steps, where it can be grabbed from the cockpit. But it also means that seatbacks, consoles and other bits of accoutrements where one’s hand might fall proved solid and robustly installed. Belowdecks, the galley counters showed no sharp corners; their rounded corners make wave-induced bumps less of an issue.

Then there’s the RCG quotient: Rattles, creaks and groans were not in evidence aboard the 438 Evolution, despite the gray, whitecapped water through which I was running it. Credit the smooth ride to the latest iteration of Intrepid’s transverse step hull, optimized for efficiency, comfort and handling. Credit also goes to Intrepid’s resin-infused, PVC-cored lamination for great stiffness and strength-to-weight ratios, plus acoustic and thermal insulation. The boatbuilder’s fastidious assembly and rigging result in tight seams, properly fastened fixtures, and well-supported runs of plumbing and wire. If it’s not meant to move, it doesn’t aboard an Intrepid.

Interior and Accessories

The layout boasts a 10-by-6-foot self-bailing cockpit with a hullside dive door; in-sole stowage, including a macerated fish box; excellent access to the bilge to service pumps and through-hulls; and more. There are steps to the side decks served by grab rails on the top uprights, wide coaming bolster pads, and a lot of toe room under each gunwale. A raw-water washdown is handy. There is a grill and sink under a lid at the forward end of the cockpit to port; to starboard is an aft-facing lounge that opens electrically to reveal massive stowage. Aft, there’s an aquarium-style livewell and a folding aft bench. A sunshade extends aft to protect the cockpit at the touch of a button. Intrepid will work with individual owners and install accessories such as a hot-and-cold transom shower, a cockpit table, dive-tank racks and more. You can fish this pit as well as use it as space for diving or entertaining.

Up a step, under the hardtop, is the helm deck, with its large, portside lounge and double-wide helm seat. The raked and curvaceous windshield provided excellent protection, and I’ll add that its size and style add to the 438 Evolution’s racy look. The helm is a sculpted console showcasing a pair of large touchscreen multifunction displays and plenty of room for an admiral’s array of controls, including an engine joystick, a bow-thruster joystick, and a full complement of accessory switches. The helm seats, with flip-up bolsters and armrests, and flip-down footrests that are broad platforms, make the captain and mate feel in command.

The 438 Evolution’s cabin feels bigger, brighter and airier than most. There are hard reasons for this: Six hullside windows and a pair of fixed lights in the cabin trunk simply let in loads of light. But the signature use of many light surfaces on the vertical surfaces and overhead is offset by tastefully contrasting darker colors underfoot and for furniture. So, the head door, bulkheads and exposed cabin sides are gloss gelcoat. But the cabin sole is faux teak, the cabinet fronts at the fully equipped galley are gray, and the forward lounge, which converts to a berth, is a rich, clubby brown. Again, Intrepid will work to satisfy the decor needs of individual customers.

Aft, the stateroom was roomy with stand-up access and sitting headroom at its athwartships berth. The sole is, again, teak. Boasting two of those big hullside windows plus a skylight, it is decidedly uncavelike.

Shopping? We know of no other outboard-powered boat that delivers this kind of performance, and can fish, dive, cruise and entertain. Tiara’s 43 LE ($1,149,900 with triple Mercury Racing 450R outboards) won’t really fish or dive, but does kill it for entertaining with its foldout cockpit sides and revolving All Sports Module lounge.

Seeking a boat with sleek looks, with performance to match, and that’s ready for anything? Sea-trial an Intrepid 438 Evolution.

How We Tested

• Engine: Triple 450 hp Mercury Racing 450R
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/14.6″ x 19″ 4-blade Revolution Four stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.60:1 Fuel Load: 400 gal. Water on Board: 100 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

High Points

• Tremendous ride, handling and efficiency.
• Truly versatile, this boat allows its owner to be ready for most anything.
• Elegant in design, excellent in build.
• Please add a second reading lamp to the main cabin berth.
• Sand-style nonskid on the bow works well, but molded nonskid would look better and be easier to keep clean.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

Intrepid Powerboats – Largo, Florida; 954-922-7544; intrepidpowerboats.com

• More: 2021 , 40-50ft , boat tests , Boats , Cruising Boats , Intrepid Boats , November 2021 , outboards

Boat Test: 2024 EdgeWater 208CC Watchman

Boat Test: 2024 Stingray 23 OSX

Boat Test: 2024 Grady-White 231 Coastal ­Explorer

Boat Test: 2024 Hurricane SunDeck 2600 OB

Boat Test: 2024 Brabus Shadow 1200 ­Sun-Top

Inflatable Water Mats for Boaters

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Boating may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

Copyright © 2024 Boating Firecrown . All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

INQUIRE ABOUT AVAILABILITY

Follow us on social.

CENTER CONSOLE

50 EVOLUTION

475 PANACEA

438 EVOLUTION

427 NOMAD FE

407 NOMAD FE

375 NOMAD SE

375 NOMAD FE

345 NOMAD SE

345 NOMAD FE

477 Evolution

• BUILD YOURS
• INTREPID DIFFERENCE
• VERSATILITY
• INTREPID NATION

AVAILABLE FUEL

Sport yacht luxury, performance and versatility,, in an ingeniously streamlined design., with a cabin twice as large as an inboard of similar size, this sleek, big-water day boat is the complete package – on a more compact and fuel-efficient platform., state-of-the-art accommodations invite you cruise the islands for a week at a time. the spacious helm accommodates all the latest flat-screen electronics, while an optional power sunroof overlooks wraparound, club-style seating that inspires joyful camaraderie. a spacious, euro-styled cabin is flooded with natural sunlight during the day and appointed with world-class amenities. the large settee with high-low table converts to a roomy v-berth at the touch of a button. the private head compartment features a separate shower. the galley includes a microwave and sink. the cozy cabin even features a pop-up television for catching your favorite shows…when you’re not catching a falling star on another perfect night aboard your custom 438 evolution sport yacht..

LET THE JOURNEY BEGIN

" * " indicates required fields

CLICK HERE TO VIEW OWNERS MANUAL

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN INTREPID POWER BOATS

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Hidden Channel
• Hidden Source
• Hidden Medium
• Which Model are you interested in? * 51 PANACEA 50 EVOLUTION 438 EVOLUTION 43 NOMAD SE 43 NOMAD FE 41 PANACEA 41 VALOR 375 NOMAD SE 375 NOMAD FE 345 VALOR 345 NOMAD SE 345 NOMAD FE 300 NOMAD
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
• Stay up to date with all the latest Intrepid information! In our newsletter you'll hear from the President of Intrepid, Ken Clinton, as well as other team members.
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Boat Reviews

• Boats Specs
• Marine Pros
• Boat Insurance
• Boat Warranties
• Boat Transport
• Boat Towing
• Marine Forecasts

Your Ultimate Boating Resource

2009 Intrepid 430 Sport Yacht

2009 intrepid 430 sport yacht specs.

• Boat Type : Outboard Boats
• Quantity: 3
• Horse Power: 300
• Type: Gasoline
• Hull Material : Kevlar
• Beam : 12'8"
• Length : 43'
• Net Weight : 15000 lbs
• Max Bridge Clearance : 13
• Max Draft : 2.83 ft
• Deadrise Degrees : 21
• FreshWater Capacity : 100 gals
• Fuel Capacity : 390 gals
• Looking for the Boat Manual? 2009 Intrepid Boats 430 Sport Yacht Request Boat Manual Now

Related Boats

• 2008 Intrepid 430 Sport Yacht
• 2010 Intrepid 430 Sport Yacht
• 2011 Intrepid 430 Sport Yacht

Don't Miss

Overview of the 2024 sea-doo rxp-x 325, overview of the 2024 parker offshore 2900 cc, what your boat’s beam is and why it matters, power cats of 2024: ultimate guide to the top power catamarans this year, navigating the heat: 10 safety tips for a safe boat ride in the summer heat, what type of wood is used for pier pilings, what is the difference between a dock and a floating pier, what is the proper technique for pulling a beginner wakeboarder, what does ‘no wake’ mean on a lake, what is the difference between wash and wake, highs, lows, and tidal know-how: a deep dive into ocean currents, 10 essential tips for fishing near private property, the benefits of using a drift sock: guidance for anglers, lure fishing: secrets for imitating live bait and attracting fish, explore the untapped depths of america’s best bass fishing spots, outboard motor maintenance: tips for keeping your engine in top shape, the essential boat tool kit: tools every boater needs, diy boat building: 8 tips and tricks for building your own vessel, the art of miniature maritime craftsmanship: ship in a bottle, antifouling paints: a guide to keeping your boat shipshape, beginner’s guide to standup paddle boarding: tips and techniques, boating for fitness: how to stay active on the water, kayak safety: how to stay safe on the water, anchoring in a kayak or canoe: how to secure your small boat, overview of the 2024 yamaha 252sd, overview of the 2024 tiara yachts 48 le, overview of the 2024 bass cat jaguar sts, 2024 pursuit os 445: an overview, 2024 aquila 47 molokai review, 2024 sea-doo switch 13 sport review, gear reviews, megabass oneten max lbo jerkbait review, fortress anchors fx-7 anchoring system review, fortress anchors fx-11 anchoring system review, fortress anchors commando anchor kit review, fortress anchors aluminum anchors review, stay in touch.

To be updated with all the latest news, offers and special announcements.

• Privacy Policy

• Frank Magazine
• Denison History
• Virtual Tours
• --> --> -->