XP 44 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Xp 44 in 2011 marked a significant addition to X-Yachts' "XPerformance" (Xp) range, which was specifically developed for the demanding cruiser-racer market. X-Yachts, founded by Niels and Lars Jeppesen and Birger Hansen in 1979, has a long-standing commitment to building stiff, precise, and high-performing yachts. Niels Jeppesen, the chief designer for all X-Yachts models, drew upon over 30 years of experience in performance hull design when developing the Xp range. The Xp 44's design philosophy aimed to offer a harmonious balance of power and ease of handling, facilitated by carefully planned sail control systems.

A key aspect of the Xp 44's design and build is its emphasis on stability. The hull shape incorporates reduced upright beam and wetted surface area, while the transom design ensures optimal performance as wind speeds increase. Owners were offered flexibility with two keel options: a standard draft of 2.30 meters (approximately 7.55 feet) with 3,850 kg of ballast (8,488 lbs) and a deep draft of 2.65 meters (8.69 feet). This choice, along with options for standard aluminum or optional carbon mast packages, allowed for customization to suit specific sailing preferences, whether for competitive racing or comfortable cruising. The construction utilized advanced methods like vacuum infusion, a hallmark of X-Yachts' Xperformance range, enhancing stiffness and reducing weight.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Xp 44 is engineered for impressive sailing performance and responsive handling. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 25.58, she demonstrates excellent potential for speed, particularly in lighter air conditions, allowing her to accelerate quickly and maintain momentum. Her robust Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.445 indicates a high degree of stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up to a strong breeze and maintain a powerful sail plan without excessive heeling. This contributes to a comfortable motion and confident handling, even in challenging sea states. The Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 143.5 further categorizes the Xp 44 as a light, performance-oriented vessel, suggesting agility and a lively feel at the helm.

Reviews consistently praise the Xp 44's sailing characteristics. It is noted for sailing very close to the wind at good speeds and for steering beautifully. Boat of the Year judges lauded its execution, commenting on its impressive performance and simplicity of handling. The optimized hull shape ensures exemplary performance across a range of wind conditions and angles of sail, making it suitable for both ORC and IRC handicap systems.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Xp 44 is designed to offer a stylish, contemporary, and comfortable cruising experience, emphasizing exemplary use of light and space. It is typically offered in a three-cabin layout. A generously sized owner's cabin is located forward of the mast, featuring its own head and shower, along with a hanging locker. Ample natural light streams into the interior through flush-mounted windows. The Xp 44 also introduced an adaptable sliding navigation station, which comes standard. While specific maximum headroom is not detailed in the available data, the focus on "exemplary use of light and space" suggests a comfortable living environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Xp 44 frequently commend its solid construction and overall build quality, echoing X-Yachts' reputation for excellence. The boat is widely recognized for combining impressive performance with user-friendly handling, making it appealing to both seasoned racers and families. The design is often described as functional and honors the true sailing performance of the boat. Owners appreciate its capability on the race course while also valuing its comfortable and modern interior for cruising. There is a general consensus that the Xp 44 is a powerful boat that continues to be successful in racing.