Offshore 44 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 44 commenced in 1968 and continued until 1974, with 17 units built during this period. John G. Alden, the designer, was celebrated for creating "fast and seaworthy offshore boats," a philosophy clearly evident in the Offshore 44, which was designated as Alden design #1016. During this era, Cheoy Lee Shipyard was a trailblazer in marine construction, being among the first to extensively utilize fiberglass as a boatbuilding material and to apply GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and foam sandwich technology. Their manufacturing ethos focused on delivering dependable products, innovative design, and exceptional craftsmanship, qualities that defined their popular "Offshore" series of sailing yachts, including the 44. The shipyard gained a reputation for building robust, finely crafted, and globally capable vessels, emphasizing durability and seaworthiness in their sailing designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Offshore 44, with its full keel and masthead ketch rig, is designed for stability and comfortable passage-making rather than outright speed. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 10.78 indicates a heavy displacement vessel, suggesting that while it may not excel in very light air, it will carry its momentum well and offer a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 0.28, while lower than some more performance-oriented designs, contributes to its deep, secure feel and stability, characteristic of traditional cruisers. A high Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 333 further classifies the Offshore 44 as a heavy cruiser, prioritizing comfort and stability over light-air agility. The ketch rig offers versatility, breaking the total sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, which is particularly advantageous for offshore sailing and makes handling easier in varying wind conditions. Owners often describe the Cheoy Lee 44 as a "capable and surefooted yacht," affirming its design as a timeless bluewater cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data is not always provided, the Cheoy Lee Offshore 44 is recognized for its spacious interior layout, which is particularly well-suited for extended cruising and liveaboard comfort. The interior frequently features lavish Burma Teak joinery, complemented by natural Teak exterior trim and cockpit grating, reflecting a classic yacht aesthetic. Typical layouts for a vessel of this size and era would generally include a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley, and a navigation station. A dedicated head compartment with a marine toilet and shower would also be standard. The extensive use of wood contributes to a warm and traditional ambiance, with ample storage throughout the boat for provisions and personal gear. The design emphasizes comfort and practicality for offshore living.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 44, like those of many Cheoy Lee yachts, often form strong communities, such as the Cheoy Lee Association, facilitating the sharing of information and experiences. Common sentiments among owners highlight the vessel's solid construction and its inherently comfortable motion, even in challenging sea states, underscoring its reputation as a capable cruising boat. Many appreciate its liveaboard potential, finding the layout and interior volume well-suited for extended stays.

However, as with any older vessel, there are recurring maintenance considerations. A frequent point noted by owners of Cheoy Lee boats of this vintage is the potential for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, often necessitating re-bedding work. While the Offshore 44 is praised for its robust build, some owners acknowledge that, given its heavy displacement, it is not a speed demon, with one owner of a similar model noting a cruising speed of 7-8 knots. Despite these common refitting or maintenance tasks typical of boats from its era, the Cheoy Lee Offshore 44 remains a viable and appealing option for those seeking a durable, comfortable, and visually appealing cruising sailboat.