Luxury cruiser manufacturer Maritimo, which acquired Mustang in May 2010 has gone back to the drawing board, pooled its collective wisdom and designed a sports cruiser with a "totally new level of style, performance and sophistication."

Slated for an April launch, the new Mustang 43 Sports Cruiser is said to have undergone the most exhaustive R&D process of any boat built by Australian identity Bill Barry-Cotter in the last decade.

Due consideration was given to dealer and customer feedback to ensure the boats ticked all the boxes demanded by today’s discerning buyers.

"We have reviewed this boat and the attention to detail will ensure its success," said Marketing Director, Luke Durman. "It is the complete package when it comes to comfortable, safe and relaxed family boating, particularly with a base price of $688,000 for the standard twin sterndrive."

Shaft and pod drives are also available.

Pitched as the ideal mid-market sports cruiser, sitting between the highly successful and popular Mustang 32 and the Mustang 50, the new 43 boasts a cockpit designed for entertaining with aft-facing L-shaped lounge. Storage includes a large lazarette for the inflatable toys, diving and/or fishing gear, while the transom is said to have great access.

The aft galley, alongside an entertainment unit, links to the cockpit via an awning window. "We wanted the galley connected with the L-shaped lounge area in the cockpit, which is under the shade of the hard top, so that the users can all interact and remain connected," Durman explained.

The two-cabin layout features a large VIP cabin with full-sized double berth and cleverly-designed lounge that converts into a double bunk, Pullman-style, for two children. The owner’s stateroom is forward with walkaround island double berth.

Everyone likes a big bathroom, with the 43’s featuring a large separate shower, vanity and hand basin and electric toilet. Opening portholes and hatches are a feature throughout the lower deck, says Mustang.

"Mustang has a very loyal following and the new 43 is perfect at the entry, middle and upper levels of the market," said Barry-Cotter in his quest to re-ignite the sports cruiser market.

More from Luke Durman, Marketing Director. Phone (07) 5588 6001. Email: ldurman@maritimo.com.au. See http://www.mustang.com.au/.