Pacific Seacraft 44 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Pacific Seacraft 44 in 1990 marked a significant addition to Pacific Seacraft's acclaimed line of cruising yachts. Designed by the legendary W.I.B. Crealock, the vessel was touted by its designer as "the evolution of the breed," building upon the successful lineage of previous models like the Pacific Seacraft 31, 34, and 37. Crealock's design philosophy consistently prioritized exceptional sailing and seakeeping qualities, aiming to create hulls with "uncommon balance" even in larger yachts. This vision aligned perfectly with Pacific Seacraft's long-standing manufacturing ethos, which since its founding in 1975, has been dedicated to crafting tough, seakindly fiberglass monohulls specifically engineered for challenging offshore conditions.

The construction reflects this commitment, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and a deck made of solid fiberglass, ensuring structural integrity in a seaway. The design incorporates a long fin keel paired with a full skeg rudder, a configuration celebrated for providing excellent tracking ability and propeller protection. The cutter rig with double spreaders further enhances its versatility and sail-handling options for varying wind conditions. While its initial production began in 1990, the Pacific Seacraft 44 continued to be produced into the early 2000s, with some current listings even indicating new builds or custom orders, underscoring its enduring appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pacific Seacraft 44's design ratios illustrate its strong emphasis on stability, comfort, and offshore capability. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.95 (reported as 17.12 in some sources), the boat is characterized as a "heavy sailboat which is a reasonably good performer". This ratio suggests that while it may not be a light-air flyer, it is capable of good speeds in moderate to stronger winds, consistent with its cruising intentions.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.40 (40%) is indicative of a very stiff and stable vessel, well-equipped to stand up to heavy weather and maintain a comfortable motion. Owners and reviews consistently highlight its "excellent righting capability" and stability. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 325, calculated based on its 27,500-pound displacement and 33.54-foot waterline, firmly places it in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, designed for comfort and predictability rather than outright racing performance. The boat's long fin keel and full skeg rudder contribute significantly to its renowned "capable sea handling" and balanced helm, making it a "timeless traditional design built for serious 'Blue Water' cruising". Its hull speed is calculated at 7.76 knots. Anecdotal evidence from owners often praises its robust performance and ability to handle rough conditions, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable offshore partner.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Pacific Seacraft 44 is crafted with offshore living and comfort in mind, blending artistry with practical experience at sea. The typical layout features "2 separate cabins and 2 heads," offering privacy and ample space for a cruising couple or a small family. Some variations, including "three cabin interior layout with a forward placed head" and separate shower, indicate a degree of customization was available, reflecting a focus on owner specifications.

Descriptions often highlight a "generous layout with an aft cabin," providing comfortable berths and living areas. The interior is generally characterized by a "quality build" and thoughtfully arranged spaces designed for livability. While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented, the overall impression is one of a comfortable and well-appointed interior, often finished with the traditional wood trim expected in a high-quality cruising yacht. Ample storage, robust joinery, and good ventilation are typically key features, essential for extended periods at sea.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pacific Seacraft 44 frequently express deep satisfaction with their vessels, consistently praising their "solid construction and capable sea handling". The boat is often celebrated for its exceptional seaworthiness and robust build quality, reinforcing Pacific Seacraft's reputation for creating dependable bluewater yachts.

Many owners consider the Pacific Seacraft 44 a benchmark for offshore cruising, with some even expressing a desire to upgrade to this model from other Pacific Seacraft boats. The vessel is known to retain its value well, a testament to its quality and desirability in the used boat market. While the provided search results do not highlight recurring specific "common problems," the general sentiment among owners is that the boat offers a secure and comfortable platform for ambitious cruising, often undergoing comprehensive refits by dedicated owners to ensure it meets the demands of extensive voyages. The strong owner community further underscores the enduring appeal and reliability of these exceptional cruising yachts.