Countess 44 (Pearson) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pearson Countess 44 was built by Pearson Yachts, a company known for its pioneering adoption of fiberglass as a primary boatbuilding material and its commitment to robust construction. The design, Alden #989, was drawn for Pearson in 1964, leading to a production run from 1965 to 1970. During this period, Pearson produced 59 units of the Countess 44, leveraging their expertise in fiberglass to create durable and widely accessible yachts. The builder's ethos at the time focused on providing high-quality, yet affordable, auxiliary sailboats, a philosophy evident in the Countess 44's solid fiberglass hull and deck construction. While core specifications remained consistent, some variations in interior layouts and external features were noted, such as a "galley up in deck house" configuration in 1965 models and an "Interior D layout" in 1968. Early models also featured a notable bowsprit and extended foretriangle.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Countess 44 is characterized by her ketch rig and a full-length keel, a design choice that typically contributes to excellent directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway, though it can reduce maneuverability in tight quarters. Her design ratios provide further insight into her intended performance profile. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 13.65 (based on a calculated sail area of 732.46 sqft), the Countess 44 leans towards a heavier cruising design rather than a light-air speedster. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.32 (32%) suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind. A Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 393 indicates a heavy displacement vessel, which generally translates to a steady ride in choppy conditions and a good load-carrying capacity. Despite these ratios suggesting a more conservative cruiser, contemporary reviews described her as a "fast, able sailing yacht" that "sails like a queen". Under power, the original 109 HP Gray Marine gasoline engine, with a Ford diesel as an option, allowed the Countess 44 to achieve speeds of eight to nine knots. Her theoretical hull speed is estimated at 7.4 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with an emphasis on "plush accommodations," the Countess 44 was intended to offer a spacious and comfortable living environment akin to a luxury motor-sailor. The interior typically features a well-appointed layout suitable for extended cruising and liveaboard comfort. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, a vessel of this size would generally offer standing headroom throughout most of the main cabin. Early configurations featured a galley located within the deckhouse, contributing to an open and airy feel, with later models offering an "Interior D layout". Owners have described the interior as spacious, with ample room for berths, a salon, and storage, making her a viable option for a long-distance family cruiser. The finish quality and materials would have been consistent with Pearson's robust fiberglass construction of the era, likely featuring classic wood trim and practical, durable surfaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pearson Countess 44 frequently praise her solid construction and suitability for offshore cruising and liveaboard life. Many appreciate the robust build quality that Pearson Yachts was known for, making them enduring vessels. However, as with any classic yacht, some owners note that models from the 1960s often require significant updating of electronic and mechanical systems. While general sentiment points to a comfortable and capable cruiser, some unique aspects or maintenance considerations common to older boats, such as original deck fittings needing re-bedding or specific tank configurations, have been mentioned in owner discussions. Despite these typical considerations for vintage yachts, the active community of Pearson owners and enthusiasts underscores the enduring appeal and functionality of the Countess 44.