Seguin 44 TM DK Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Seguin 44 TM DK begins in 1980, marking a significant period for Lyman-Morse Boatbuilding. During this era, as detailed in the builder's history, Lyman-Morse was establishing its reputation by skillfully blending traditional craftsmanship with emerging boatbuilding technologies in Thomaston, Maine. The company, founded by Cabot and Heidi Lyman, embraced the transition towards new materials and construction methods, proudly contributing to the legacy of fine cruising boats of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Seguin 44, designed by Sparkman & Stephens, was conceived to be a formidable cruising and offshore vessel, solidifying Lyman-Morse's position as a builder of high-quality custom yachts.

A testament to its successful design, the Seguin 44 series proved instrumental in putting Lyman-Morse on the map, with at least 15 to 16 units built, each highly customized for its initial owner. The design philosophy behind the Seguin 44 emphasized speed, safety, and the ability to be sailed shorthanded. Notably, the Seguin 44 shared its basic hull mold with the Seguin 46, and its success even spawned further variations, including the Seguin 40 and Seguin 49, showcasing the versatility and enduring appeal of the underlying Sparkman & Stephens design. These early vessels benefited from Lyman-Morse's commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, which remain hallmarks of the builder today.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seguin 44 TM DK's design characteristics translate into a capable and reassuring sailing performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.57, the vessel offers a balanced performance profile, suggesting it is neither underpowered in light airs nor excessively tender in heavier conditions. This moderate ratio indicates a design intended for versatile cruising, capable of making good progress across a range of wind strengths.

Further enhancing its offshore credentials, the Seguin 44 boasts a Ballast to Displacement ratio of 40%. This substantial percentage of ballast contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up well to a considerable amount of wind and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. This structural integrity aligns with its reputation as a "stout and seakindly" vessel, performing admirably in bluewater conditions. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 319.7 places the Seguin 44 firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruising yacht. This higher D/L ratio suggests a comfortable ride in choppy seas and a robust build, designed to carry stores and equipment for extended voyages without compromising its seakeeping abilities. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Seguin 44 as a boat that handles well, offers excellent balance, and provides a secure feeling in various sea states, a direct result of its well-considered design for speed, safety, and shorthanded sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Seguin 44 TM DK is characterized by its spaciousness and customizability, reflecting Lyman-Morse's commitment to bespoke yacht building. While specific headroom details are not readily available, the overall layout emphasizes comfort and functionality for extended cruising. Many of these yachts were uniquely finished for their original owners, leading to variations in specific arrangements and materials.

Typically, one would expect a well-appointed cruising interior. Common features often found include an L-shaped galley, frequently finished with durable formica counters and practical teak fiddles, providing a secure and functional space for meal preparation at sea. The salon would generally offer comfortable seating and dining areas, while sleeping accommodations would likely include a V-berth forward, possibly quarter berths aft, and a dedicated head compartment. Given Lyman-Morse's reputation for quality, the general finish would be of a high standard, with ample use of finely crafted wood trim, robust fiberglass components, and thoughtful storage solutions throughout. Ventilation is also a key consideration in cruising yacht design, and Seguin 44s would typically feature a complement of opening ports and hatches to ensure airflow. The emphasis on custom interiors during their production run suggests that each Seguin 44 offers a unique, yet consistently high-quality, living space tailored for serious sailors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seguin 44 TM DK consistently laud these yachts for their solid construction and enduring quality. Many are still in excellent condition and continue to undertake extensive voyages, a testament to their robust build and Sparkman & Stephens design. The "stout and seakindly" nature of the boat is a frequently praised attribute, highlighting its comfortable motion and reliable performance in challenging offshore conditions.

The high degree of customization offered by Lyman-Morse during the build process means that each Seguin 44 often carries unique interior and system configurations, which owners typically value for fitting their specific cruising needs. While some owners have undertaken updates to their vessels over the years, such as modernizing electronics or systems, these tend to be enhancements rather than rectifications of fundamental flaws, speaking to the inherent quality of the original build. No widespread or recurring major problems are commonly reported by owners, reinforcing the Seguin 44's reputation as a well-engineered and durable cruising yacht. The strong sense of community among Seguin owners often revolves around sharing insights on maintaining these classic vessels, which are clearly cherished for their timeless design and sailing capabilities.