Cambria 44 Information, Review, Specs

The Cambria 44 entered production in 1985 and was built until 1990, with a total of 18 hulls constructed. The design philosophy behind the Cambria 44, conceived by David Walters, aimed to create a "fast, comfortable, performance-cruiser" built to the high-quality standards of esteemed American brands like Hinckley and Alden. David Walters Yachts built these vessels with a distinct emphasis on an elegant profile, featuring a low-profile deckhouse, a long bow overhang, and a reverse transom.

During the era of the Cambria 44's production, Cabo Rico, which eventually took over its construction, was known for its commitment to building "heavy displacement offshore cruising yachts" that prioritize "safe and comfortable passage-making in any conditions." This ethos of robust construction, often featuring solid teak interiors and cutter rig designs, aligned well with the Cambria 44's design objectives. The Cambria 44 also offered variations in its keel configuration, including a fin keel and a keel/centerboard option, with a deep fin keel option of 7.5 feet also available. There was also a related model, the Cambria 44/46, which may represent an extended or modified version.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cambria 44 is designed as a capable offshore cruiser, and its performance ratios reflect this purpose. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 16.31, the Cambria 44 is categorized as a moderate performer, suggesting a good balance of power and ease of handling without being overly aggressive in light airs. Its ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of about 40.2% is quite high, indicating significant stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to strong winds and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (Disp/L) of approximately 267.1 places it firmly in the heavier cruiser category, further supporting its reputation for comfort and stability during long passages.

The Cambria 44 features a cutter rig, which provides a versatile sail plan that is manageable for offshore cruising and racing. Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Cambria 44 as a "quality offshore cruiser/racer" known for its good performance and sturdy build, with quality fittings and hardware contributing to its robust nature. The design ensures a comfortable experience, reinforcing its suitability for extensive voyaging.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cambria 44 is typically finished with varnished teak and features a teak sole, reflecting a high standard of craftsmanship. The layout commonly includes two staterooms and two heads, along with an L-shaped galley, providing comfortable living spaces for extended cruising. Forward, a V-berth offers private accommodation, complemented by an overhead deck hatch for light and ventilation. Some configurations also include an aft cabin with large single berths. The deck layout was often customized to allow all sail handling to be managed from the cockpit, enhancing ease of operation, particularly for shorthanded sailing. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the emphasis on comfort and living space suggests a well-proportioned interior designed for extended time aboard.