Advanced 44 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Advanced 44 made its debut in 2014, marking a significant addition to Advanced Yachts' portfolio of high-performance luxury sailing vessels. Advanced Yachts, founded in 2009 by Antonella Di Leo and Marco Tursini, quickly established a reputation for delivering custom and semi-custom yachts that epitomize Italian excellence. The builder's ethos, consistent during the Advanced 44's production era, centers on creating a "tailor-made suit" in yachting, emphasizing bespoke solutions, innovative technology, and a "Made in Italy" commitment to quality craftsmanship.

The design of the Advanced 44 is a collaborative masterpiece. Naval architect Roberto Biscontini, known for his work on America's Cup yachts, brought his performance-driven philosophy to this production model, making it his first in 30 years. This partnership aimed to create a yacht that was not merely fast but also immensely enjoyable to sail. Complementing Biscontini's hydrodynamic expertise, Nauta Yachts was responsible for the sophisticated design and styling of the deck, deckhouse, and interiors, ensuring that functionality was seamlessly integrated with elegant aesthetics. While the core design is consistent, the Advanced 44 offers flexibility, including options for a square-top mainsail (797 sq.ft.) for maximum performance or a cruise mainsail (689 sq.ft.) for ease of handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Advanced 44 is engineered for an exhilarating sailing experience, translating its robust specifications into highly responsive and capable performance on the water. With a length overall of just over 44 feet and a waterline length of 41.67 feet, she presents a substantial yet agile profile. Her calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 27.68 indicates a powerful sail plan for her displacement, suggesting excellent performance in lighter winds and a lively, responsive feel. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.38 points to a good level of initial stability, allowing her to stand up to a breeze without excessive heeling, while still being nimble.

Crucially, the Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 97, firmly places the Advanced 44 in the lightweight, performance-oriented category. This low D/L ratio signifies a boat designed for speed and efficiency, contrasting with heavier, more traditional cruisers. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the A44 as stable, direct, and highly responsive, praising its ability to track beautifully and cut effectively to weather, even in heavy swells. Her theoretical hull speed of 8.65 knots further underscores her potential for fast passages, making her an exciting vessel for those who appreciate spirited sailing without compromising on comfort.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Advanced 44, designed by Nauta Yachts, reflects a minimalist yet luxurious Italian aesthetic. The layout typically features beautifully finished bleached oak, creating a bright and contemporary atmosphere below deck. The accommodations are designed for comfort, offering cabins with double beds and well-appointed bathrooms that include enclosed showers and electric toilets. This sophisticated arrangement ensures that while the Advanced 44 delivers high performance, it also provides a refined and comfortable living space, ideal for both short getaways and longer cruises.