Norstar 44 Information, Review, Specs

The lineage of the Norstar 44 traces back to the Nordic 44, a design by Robert Perry that first emerged in 1980. Nordic Yachts built 39 units of the Nordic 44 between 1980 and 1989. Robert Perry himself held the Nordic 44 in high regard, stating it was "the most beautiful yacht we have had built to our designs". His design philosophy for this model emphasized a "racer-cruiser" ethos, prioritizing performance while ensuring suitability for extended cruising.

Norstar Yachts Inc., founded in 1995 by Steve Nordtvedt, a second-generation yacht designer and builder, later continued the production of this acclaimed design, re-badging it as the Norstar 44, with its production beginning in 1995. Norstar Yachts was known for its dedication to high-quality construction and innovative design, aiming for "fast yet efficient and predictable performance in all sea conditions". This commitment was evident in their adoption of the Norstar 44, which features a fiberglass solid hull and deck, ensuring durability and minimum maintenance. While the Norstar 44 primarily features a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, some variations of the original Nordic 44 design included a shoal draft fixed keel option, and a keel/centerboard version.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Norstar 44 boasts a design that prioritizes both speed and stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.58, she suggests good performance in lighter winds, hinting at a "slightly more speedy hull design" compared to many other vessels of similar size. The ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of nearly 0.39 indicates a stable and stiff vessel, capable of standing up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 241 places her in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, balancing robust construction with sailing efficiency.

Equipped with a masthead sloop rig and a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, the Norstar 44 offers responsive handling. While a fin keel provides excellent maneuverability and allows for tighter turning, it offers less directional stability than a traditional long keel. This characteristic makes the Norstar 44 engaging to sail, responding well to helm input, and adept at navigating various sea states. Owners have generally praised the Nordic 44 (and by extension, the Norstar 44) as a "great sailing boat," indicating its well-rounded performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Norstar 44 is designed to offer comfortable living for extended periods afloat. Typically configured with two cabins and two heads, the layout provides sleeping accommodations for up to six, with two private berths and additional convertible berths in the salon. The interior design emphasizes functionality and comfort, with a well-appointed galley for meal preparation and sufficient water tankage to support cruising needs. The original Nordic 44 plans featured a rear cabin, contributing to a versatile arrangement suitable for families or guests. The construction includes balsa core in the sandwich laminate of the hull, a common practice for its strength-to-weight benefits and insulation properties.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Norstar 44, and its predecessor the Nordic 44, consistently commend the design's sailing capabilities and robust construction. Robert Perry's endorsement of the Nordic 44 as one of his most beautiful designs resonates with owners who appreciate its aesthetic appeal alongside its performance. While specific common problems are not widely documented, some early models of the Nordic 44 were noted to have "build issues endemic" that owners typically addressed over time. Despite this, the enduring presence of these vessels on the brokerage market speaks to their lasting quality and the overall positive ownership experience, particularly for those seeking a well-built, capable cruiser.