Nautitech 44 Open Information, Review, Specs

The Nautitech 44 Open officially began its production run in 2022 and continues to be a current model in the builder's lineup. Its design is a pure synthesis of Nautitech's DNA, offering a unique sailing experience that respects the brand's established line. Marc Lombard and his team were tasked with evolving Nautitech's popular range of cruising catamarans, with a particular focus on creating a vessel designed by sailors, for sailors.

Nautitech Catamarans, since its inception in 1994, has consistently emphasized a balance between performance and livability. The 44 Open is a prime example of their pioneering "Open concept," a design philosophy that innovatively merges the saloon and cockpit into one expansive, functional living area. This integrated space prioritizes "sharing and circulation on board," fostering an unparalleled sense of openness and connection between indoor and outdoor living. A distinctive feature that has become iconic with the 44 Open model is its integrated bar concept, further enhancing the communal aspect of its design. The 44 Open is available with four distinct interior versions, offering owners flexibility in configuring their vessel, including options for three or four cabins.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Nautitech 44 Open is engineered for a harmonious blend of speed and stability. It is praised for its "exhilarating sailing performance" and its ability to handle well in various conditions. Reviews highlight its "excellent seakeeping behaviour" in moderately high swells, attributing this to a noticeably stiff and low-torsion structure that prevents slamming through waves. The hull design, with a comfortable bridgedeck clearance, contributes to a smooth motion underway and good speed under sail.

The sailing experience is enhanced by sporty helms that offer direct feel to the twin rudders and provide full visibility of the sails, crucial for optimal trim and control. Designed for short-handed sailing, the yacht features all lines led back to the twin helm stations, making maneuvers more accessible and efficient. With a reported total sail area of 1130.21 square feet and a waterline length of 42.98 feet, the 44 Open is configured for efficient passage making.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Nautitech 44 Open is characterized by a "revolutionary interior layout" that emphasizes space and connectivity. The hallmark "Open concept" creates a seamless transition between the saloon and the cockpit, fostering an expansive living area that places social interaction at its core. This design allows for superb natural ventilation and integrates the interior with the surrounding marine environment. The saloon area, especially in the 2025 upgraded cabin layout, features an expanded table, enhancing the communal dining and lounge experience.

The 44 Open offers remarkable versatility with available configurations ranging from two to four cabins, including a popular owner's version with three cabins. While specific material finishes are not always detailed in reviews, the overall impression is one of quality, fitting for a "luxurious and high-performance catamaran." The modularity and variety of available equipment allow owners to configure the catamaran precisely to their program and preferences. The boat typically features twin diesel saildrive engines, often with 2 x 30 horsepower, providing reliable auxiliary power and maneuverability.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Nautitech 44 Open for its solid construction and comfortable motion, even in a seaway, reflecting the builder's philosophy of robust design. The catamaran is consistently seen as a robust and well-suited vessel for a variety of sailing situations, including long-term living aboard and extensive passage making. The "Open concept" receives widespread approval for its ability to foster conviviality and enhance the liveaboard experience.

However, like any complex vessel, some owners have noted specific areas for attention. One detailed review mentioned issues with Cristec solar charge controllers underperforming. While not universally reported for the 44 Open specifically, the electronic throttles at the helms, common across the Nautitech line, have occasionally been a point of discussion for issues on other models. Overall, the collective viewpoint suggests that the Nautitech 44 Open lives up to its promise as a comfortable, high-performing catamaran designed with discerning sailors in mind.