Sailing Performance & Handling
The Orana 44 is frequently praised for its "sea-kindliness," a trait attributed to its relatively slim hulls below the waterline and a generous bridgedeck clearance that minimizes slamming in choppy conditions. With a displacement of approximately 18,000 lbs and a total sail area of over 1,100 square feet, the boat possesses a favorable sail area-to-displacement ratio for a cruising catamaran. This configuration allows it to remain nimble in light airs where heavier "condo-marans" often struggle.
A defining characteristic of the Orana 44’s handling is its semi-flybridge steering station. Unlike modern flybridges that sit atop the coachroof, the Orana’s helm is integrated into a mid-level position on the starboard side. This design choice keeps the boom low—improving the ease of sail handling and lowering the center of effort—while still providing the helmsman with excellent 360-degree visibility. Editorial testing by Yachting World highlighted that the boat tracks well off the wind, though like most fixed-keel catamarans, it requires active sail trimming to maintain high pointing angles when beating to windward. The use of a rigid bimini as a working platform for the mainsheet and traveler further simplifies shorthanded operations.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Orana 44 is defined by its light-filled saloon and a seamless transition to the cockpit, a layout Fountaine Pajot refers to as "open-plan" living. Because the deck was constructed using RTM technology, the interior overheads are exceptionally clean, contributing to a sense of volume that exceeded many of its contemporaries. The galley is positioned up in the saloon, featuring a three-burner stove and a large refrigerator, with a sliding window that opens directly to the cockpit table for easy provisioning.
Fountaine Pajot offered the Orana 44 in two primary configurations: the "Maestro" and the "Quatuor." The Maestro version is the owner’s layout, featuring a dedicated owner’s suite in the starboard hull with a large double berth, a desk/vanity area, and an expansive head forward. The port hull in this version contains two guest cabins and two heads. The Quatuor version, largely aimed at the charter market, utilizes a symmetrical layout with four double cabins and four heads, maximizing the vessel's capacity for large groups. High-quality ALPI wood finishes and large panoramic windows are standard across both versions, though owners often note that the cabinetry in earlier hulls was prone to minor rattling before the builder refined the mounting systems.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Orana 44 gained notable attention in the cruising community through several high-profile circumnavigations documented on digital platforms. One of the most prominent examples of the model's offshore capability was featured by the YouTube channel "Sailing Zatara," where the family lived and cruised extensively on an Orana 44, documenting its performance across the Pacific. This exposure helped solidify the boat's reputation as a viable "liveaboard" platform capable of handling the rigors of long-term family cruising.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach an Orana 44 with a specific set of technical inquiries, as the model was produced during a transition period in Fountaine Pajot’s manufacturing processes.
- Bulkhead Structural Integrity: Some Orana 44 hulls from the early production years (2008–2009) have been reported to experience movement in the main bulkheads, specifically near the mast step and bridgedeck joinery. It is essential to inspect for "working" or cracking in the tabbing where the bulkheads meet the hull.
- Escape Hatches: The Goiot escape hatches located in the hulls (near the waterline) were subject to a global recall and safety concerns across multiple catamaran brands. Buyers must verify if these hatches have been replaced or reinforced with the updated bolt-through frames to prevent failure.
- Deck Delamination: While the RTM deck is generally superior, some owners on technical forums have reported localized delamination or "soft spots" near high-load deck hardware (winches and cleats). Ensure a surveyor checks the core integrity around the mast base and the cockpit roof.
- Saildrive Diaphragms: Given the age of the fleet, the Volvo Penta or Yanmar saildrive seals (diaphragms) are often past their manufacturer-recommended 7-year replacement interval. Checking the service history of these seals is a critical safety item.
Community & Resources
The Orana 44 is well-supported by the Fountaine Pajot Owners Association, a robust international group that maintains technical archives and provides a platform for troubleshooting specific model quirks. Owners also frequently utilize the "Fountaine Pajot Owners Group" on Facebook and dedicated threads on CruisersForum, which serve as unofficial repositories for modification ideas and spare parts sourcing.
The Verdict
The Fountaine Pajot Orana 44 remains a highly sought-after catamaran on the secondary market for those who prioritize sailing sensations alongside living space. It bridges the gap between the slower, heavy cruisers of the past and the overly tall, wind-sensitive designs of the present.
Pros
- Excellent Visibility: The semi-flybridge offers the perfect compromise between helm protection and sightlines.
- Weight Efficiency: RTM construction ensures a lighter boat than many 44-foot competitors.
- Ergonomics: The flat bridgedeck and low-profile boom make it one of the easiest catamarans to manage shorthanded.
Cons
- Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be wary of bulkhead issues and aging escape hatches found in early hulls.
- Storage Limitations: While voluminous, the internal storage lockers are less optimized than those found in the subsequent Helia 44 or Saona 47 models.
- Engine Access: Access to the engines through the aft deck hatches can be tight for major mechanical overhauls.
