Cal 44 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Cal 44 commenced in 1984. During this era, Cal Boats, under various ownership structures but maintaining the legacy of Jensen Marine, was renowned for producing performance-oriented fiberglass sailboats known for their solid construction, durability, and ease of handling. The company's yachts were often described as tough, tracking well, and providing a dry ride. While many iconic Cal models were designed by C. William "Bill" Lapworth, the Cal 44 was specifically penned by C. Raymond Hunt Associates.

The design goals for the Cal 44 centered on combining excellent cruising performance and stability with spacious, light-filled cabin areas, prioritizing comfort and maximum privacy for owners and guests. A notable variation in its limited production run of 21 units was the availability of a shoal draft version, offering a shallower draft of 5.42 feet compared to the standard 6.5 feet, providing versatility for various cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cal 44's design ratios provide insight into its sailing characteristics. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.93, she presents as a moderately powered cruiser, suggesting solid performance across a range of wind conditions rather than excelling purely in light air. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.407 is relatively high, indicating a stiff and stable boat that can stand up well to a breeze and offers good righting capability. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 236.84 classifies the Cal 44 as a moderate displacement vessel, striking a balance between light-performance boats and heavy, traditional cruisers.

The cutter rig is a key feature of the Cal 44, breaking down the yacht's sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, which is particularly advantageous for offshore sailing and ease of handling. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Cal 44 is a reasonably good performer that is very stable and stiff, contributing to a comfortable motion in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details from the initial specifications are limited, reviews highlight the Cal 44's interior as spacious and light-filled, designed with comfort and maximum privacy as central tenets. The layout typically includes fully enclosed fore and aft staterooms, providing distinct private spaces for owners and guests. Given its production era and Cal's reputation, the interior likely features a blend of fiberglass and wood trim, offering functional living spaces that are well-suited for extended cruising. Common interior arrangements for boats of this size and era would typically include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dining area, a well-appointed galley, a head compartment, and an aft cabin.

Owner's Perspectives

Due to the relatively small number of Cal 44s built, with only 21 units produced, specific owner reviews and common problem discussions are less prevalent compared to more mass-produced models. However, general sentiments regarding Cal yachts from this period often praise their robust construction and seaworthy characteristics. While detailed anecdotal accounts are scarce, the design's focus on stability, performance, and comfortable accommodations likely aligns with the expectations of owners seeking a capable and secure cruising platform.