Lafitte 44 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Lafitte 44 spanned from 1978 to 1989, with approximately 56 units built during this period. [2, The project was initially commissioned by Mike Lewis of Pacific Far East Industries in California, USA, with early examples of the boat being finished in the United States. A key factor in the vessel's consistent quality was the supervision of construction by George Olivet at Chung Hwa Boat, ensuring a high standard throughout its production run.

Chung Hwa Boat, known predominantly for its sturdy trawler-style powerboats, brought its reputation for durable fiberglass construction and quality craftsmanship to the sailboat market with models like the Lafitte 44. Designer Robert Perry, often hailed as a pivotal figure in the modern cruising boat era, aimed to create a quality cruising design with the Lafitte 44. Perry himself expressed pride in the interior layout, noting its practical and appealing nature. The design features a canoe stern, a moderately fine entry, a fairly high bow, and a deep keel drawing 6 feet 4 inches, paired with a modest 12-foot 8-inch beam, all contributing to its offshore capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lafitte 44 is engineered for solid, reliable performance rather than outright speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.78, she is moderately powered, suggesting a balanced performance profile that handles well in varying conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 40.4% indicates a stiff and stable yacht, capable of standing up to a good breeze and offering a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 279.39 categorizes the Lafitte 44 as a moderately heavy cruiser, reinforcing its reputation for robust construction and load-carrying capacity.

Owners frequently commend the Lafitte 44 for its ability to achieve "honest 160-mile days" and maintain a comfortable ride offshore. Robert Perry's designs are consistently lauded for their sailing prowess, and the Lafitte 44 is no exception, delivering predictable handling and a confident feel at the helm. Her hull speed is calculated at 7.98 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While the detailed interior specifications are not explicitly provided in the core data, the Lafitte 44's accommodations are a significant aspect of its appeal, with interior joinery often described as "the best of the best" and a quality rarely found in contemporary yachts. Descriptions and owner accounts highlight a traditional, often teak-rich interior finish that imparts a "hushed quality" and a rare ambiance for a yacht of its size.

Typical layouts feature a U-shaped galley to port, equipped with deep double sinks, suitable for offshore cooking. While some owner perspectives note certain unconventional elements, such as a high quarter berth that might challenge mobility for some individuals, designer Robert Perry himself expressed satisfaction and pride in the interior arrangement. The emphasis is generally on functionality, comfort, and ample storage, making the Lafitte 44 a viable liveaboard and long-distance cruising platform.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Lafitte 44 consistently praise its solid construction and the comfortable motion it exhibits in a seaway. The yacht's robust build and the quality of its interior joinery are frequently highlighted as major strengths, setting it apart from many other vessels. The enduring appeal of CHB-built boats, including the Lafitte 44, in the used boat market is a testament to their lasting quality and practical design.

While largely positive, some specific points have been noted by owners, such as the steering gear potentially impeding access to the generator, and the high positioning of the quarter berth. However, these minor considerations do not detract significantly from the overall satisfaction owners express for this dependable and capable blue-water cruiser, which remains a highly valued choice for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective cruising vessel.