Varianta 44 Information, Review, Specs

The Varianta 44 commenced production in 2013, reviving a historic name from the sailing world. The original Varianta, launched by Dehler in 1962, was known for its accessibility and popularity, and the Hanse Group (which acquired Dehler) sought to reinterpret this concept for a modern audience. The new Varianta 44 was an intentional "low cost" initiative within the Hanse group, astonishing the market with its simplicity and offering a 13-meter yacht for a reported 99,999 euros upon its initial release.

Designed by Judel/Vrolijk & Co., a firm known for its expertise in performance yacht design, the Varianta 44 features a modern, slender hull. Hanse Yachts, under the leadership of Michael Schmidt, has consistently aimed to combine performance, comfort, and innovative design, and this ethos is evident in the Varianta 44's foundational design. The builder's philosophy, particularly during this era, focused on creating yachts that offer strong sailing performance while being easy to handle, even single-handedly. The Varianta 44's design emphasizes functionality and sailing pleasure over opulent finishes, reflecting a deliberate choice to keep costs down and focus on the essentials of sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total calculated sail area of approximately 1015 square feet and a displacement of 21,605 pounds, the Varianta 44 boasts a sail area to displacement ratio of about 20.94. This figure suggests a lively and performance-oriented boat, indicating it should perform well in lighter winds while still carrying enough canvas for exhilarating speeds when the breeze picks up. Its displacement to length ratio, calculated at around 158.37, categorizes it as a light displacement vessel for its length, further reinforcing its design as a swift and agile cruiser rather than a heavy, ponderous one.

The Varianta 44's ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.326 indicates a moderate level of stability. While this suggests it may require more attention to sail trim in stronger winds compared to boats with higher ballast ratios, it also contributes to its lighter displacement and potentially more nimble handling. The yacht is equipped with a bulb keel and a spade rudder, a combination typically found on performance-oriented designs, which contributes to its "excellent sailing performance" and its description as having a "fast hull." Owners and reviewers often describe the boat as a "superb boat" that offers a good balance of comfort and performance, maintaining finesse in the water. Its fractional sloop rig further enhances its handling characteristics, allowing for more manageable sail trim.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its emphasis on a "no-frills" concept, the Varianta 44 is designed to offer practical and comfortable accommodations, focusing on space and functionality. The interior typically features a straightforward yet modern design. Configurations commonly include three or four cabins, providing berths for up to eight or even ten people, alongside a large saloon.

The layout generally includes a V-berth forward, a spacious saloon, a galley, a head, and either two or three aft cabins. While detailed interior finish quality information is less common in reviews due to its budget-conscious nature, some mentions suggest the possibility of interior modifications such as teak in the saloon, galley, and cabins. The design aims to maximize livable space, making it a suitable choice for chartering or for larger families and groups. The emphasis is on a simple, functional arrangement that prioritizes available space and ease of use over luxurious appointments.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Varianta 44 generally appreciate its fundamental concept: a well-performing, modern sailboat offered at an accessible price point. Many laud its sailing capabilities, often echoing the sentiment that it provides "excellent sailing performance" and a "fast hull" from the Judel/Vrolijk design. The boat is frequently chosen for its ability to offer a comfortable stay without compromising too much on its performance characteristics, making it a "superb boat" for cruising.

While the "no-frills" aspect is a core part of its appeal, owners often highlight the practical interior layout that accommodates multiple people, making it popular for family cruising or charter operations. The inherent simplicity also means fewer complex systems to maintain, which can be a significant advantage for budget-conscious owners. However, the focus on cost efficiency might imply that owners occasionally undertake modifications or upgrades to enhance specific aspects of comfort or finish to their personal preferences.