Moody 49 Information, Review, Specs

The Moody 49 emerged in 2005, marking a significant entry in the builder's rich history, shortly before the brand's acquisition by Hanse Yachts in 2007. This places the 49 firmly within the era when Moody Yachts, under the stewardship of VT Halmatic, was producing its large, traditional cruising yachts, embodying decades of craftsmanship. Designed by the prolific Bill Dixon, the Moody 49 reflects his philosophy of creating voluminous, comfortable, and well-performing cruisers. Dixon, a key contributor to Moody's later fiberglass era, was known for designs that emphasized offshore capability and liveability, a clear mandate for the 49. During this period, Moody maintained its commitment to solid fiberglass hull construction, ensuring durability and a reassuring motion in a seaway.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody 49 is rigged as a cutter, a configuration often favored for offshore sailing due to its ability to break down the sail area into smaller, more manageable units. With a length overall of 48.56 feet and a waterline length of 40.68 feet, she boasts a robust design intended for serious cruising.

Her calculated performance ratios highlight her characteristics as a capable cruiser:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of 15.13: This moderate ratio suggests that while the Moody 49 is not a light-air speedster, she possesses sufficient sail area to perform well in a range of conditions, offering a balanced and powerful drive in typical cruising winds.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of 0.318: With lead ballast contributing 11,023 pounds to her overall displacement of 34,612 pounds, the Moody 49 exhibits a good degree of initial stability. This ratio indicates a stiff boat, capable of standing up to a breeze and providing a comfortable, level motion in rolly seas, a crucial attribute for blue-water passages.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of 229.56: This figure places the Moody 49 firmly in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser. She is not an ultra-light racer, nor an excessively heavy traditional yacht, but rather a solid, seaworthy vessel designed to carry significant stores and provide a comfortable ride without being sluggish. Her fin keel, with a maximum draft of 6.56 feet, and spade rudder contribute to good directional stability and maneuverability.

Overall, the Moody 49 is designed to offer a comfortable and secure sailing experience, prioritizing seaworthiness and stability over outright speed, making her well-suited for long-distance cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Moody 49 is designed to provide spacious and comfortable living quarters, essential for extended periods aboard. While specific layout details can vary slightly between individual yachts, the general arrangement typically features a well-appointed interior reflecting Moody's commitment to quality and comfort. Headroom is generous, reported at approximately 6.56 feet (2.00 meters), allowing for comfortable movement throughout the cabin for most individuals.

Consistent with Moody's design philosophy, the interior would likely boast traditional joinery, high-quality wood finishes, and practical layouts. Owners can expect multiple private cabins, often including a luxurious owner's cabin (likely aft or forward, depending on the specific configuration), a spacious salon for dining and relaxation, a functional galley equipped for offshore cooking, and multiple heads. Ample storage is a hallmark of Moody cruisers, providing space for provisions, gear, and personal belongings required for long voyages. Ventilation would be achieved through numerous opening ports and hatches, crucial for comfort in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody 49 consistently praise its robust construction and inherent seaworthiness, echoing the brand's long-standing reputation for building reliable blue-water cruisers. The vessel is frequently described as a "quality and strong" yacht, well-equipped for long-distance cruising. The presence of active owner communities, such as the Moody Owners Information Exchange and the Moody Owners Association, further underscores the loyalty and shared appreciation among those who own these enduring yachts. The comfort and stability provided by its moderate displacement and good ballast ratio are highly valued by those undertaking extended passages. While specific common issues are not widely reported in general searches, the forums suggest an engaged community focused on technical support, improvements, and maintenance, indicating active ownership and care for these vessels.