Tiara Sport 43 LS

After hitting a couple of home runs with its new outboard-powered 34- and 38-foot Luxury Sport (LS) models, Tiara Sport followed up in 2019 by creating an even bigger addition to the series.

More than just a bigger model, the Tiara 43 LS adds even more innovation and performance to the already impressive product line.

Like its smaller siblings, the 43 LS is versatile, beautiful and fast. The boat has a “dock presence.” With a sleek profile created by a mix of straight lines and very subtle curves, the boat also has a go-fast look while sitting still.

Rise and shine

Until recently, the words “outboard” and “luxury” were likely not found in the same sentence. However, incredible advancements in reliability, fuel efficiency and noise reduction have made outboards a viable option for almost any application.

Three monster outboards hanging off the transom can make any boat’s swim platform seem like an afterthought. However, the 43-footer’s platform is attractive and functional. The outer step pads are wide enough to make boarding safe and comfortable, and there is enough room ahead of the engines for passengers to easily move from side to side.

The portside hull door with removable swim ladder is a great touch and makes entry easy for passengers stepping down from the dock, or for tired swimmers climbing out of the water.

Like many of the new models in the crossover breed of boats, the 43 LS could be considered an entertainment platform. Whether the plan includes a day at the beach or an overnight in a distant port, the boat is well-equipped to handle the task.

At the helm, teak and leather accents contribute to the well-dressed appearance of the vessel. Dual 16-inch Garmin GPSMAP touch screens provide a wealth of information, navigation and feedback. A glovebox big enough to store personal electronics hides below a Corian cover, where today’s connected population will be happy to find USB charge ports.

The adjustable captain’s seat has room for two, while additional helm seats provide room for four behind the wheel. The helm seats also convert into stand-up bolsters. Tiara did not hold back on the luxury touches at the helm, such as the sunroof with shade, remote-operated, multicolor LED lighting, and cockpit heat and air.

A roomy walkway separates the helm from the galley. The galley itself also doubles as a leaning post for standing passengers while underway. On the hook or at the dock, a grill, two cold storage drawers and a sink hidden under the Corian countertop are ready to provide refreshments. Known as the U-lounge, the 43 LS’s aft seating includes a large teak table that converts into a comfortable sunpad. The U-lounge also hides one of the LS series’ most innovative features. Lift a single latch and the entire lounge rotates to face aft, creating a perfect place to watch swimming kids or stellar sunsets.

Race you forward

Starboard-only access to the bow may seem strange at first, especially in a boat this big. However, the layout creates stepped access to higher docks, additional room below deck and extra seating for passengers in the bow.

The wraparound bow seating easily converts into lounges or a sunpad, which can be protected by an optional Mediterranean sun top. There are cup holders and handrails everywhere. Also designated as a social zone, the bow includes more USB charge ports for personal electronics.

Although the Tiara Sport 43 LS has the personality of a dayboat, it’s also nicely equipped for overnights. Below, the generous forward berth has plenty of room for two, while a bench seat to port provides room to relax and watch the bulkhead-mounted TV. To starboard, a roomy wet head is comfortable for weekends away.

Just aft of the main cabin, Tiara created one of the 43 LS’s most unexpected features. A full-width midcabin provides room for two more guests or a place for kids to hide from the afternoon sun. Flip the midcabin cushions over to reveal their neoprene backing and the space becomes storage for water toys.

Rock and roll

Leaving Tiara’s Holland, Michigan, boating center for a late summer test ride, we discovered the west wind had stirred up Lake Michigan’s surface to a healthy 3-foot chop. However, the Tiara Sport 43 LS jumped out of the hole and skimmed across the surface like a skipped stone.

The huge wraparound windshield kept the wind off the passengers seated at the helm and back in the U-lounge. It also kept the wind noise down. And at the helm, almost no blind spots exist due to the unique design.

Even with the 3-foot Lake Michigan temper tantrum, the 43 LS hit 52 mph with full tanks and eight passengers. The boat is smooth, dry and incredibly quiet. It’s possible to have a conversation without screaming over the engines while standing at the helm or seated in the U-lounge. The Tiara Sport 43 LS is a beautiful boat with performance and handling that are sure to impress. The boat is thoughtfully designed and full-featured, but the ride stood out as one of its best qualities.

The modern boating market is filled with stiff competition coming from all directions. However, with its dedication to luxury, quality and innovation, Tiara continues to bring new models like the 43 LS to the waterways every year and keeps the boatbuilder well ahead of the pack. Whether underway, anchored up or entertaining, the new Tiara Sport 43 LS makes it easy and fun to seize the day.

Finished cutouts in starboard hull for fender storage. •  Portside hull door with removable swim ladder. •  Handrails and cup holders everywhere.

Access to the midcabin is tight.