Sailing Performance & Handling
The Seguin 44 CB TM is characterized by its moderate-to-heavy displacement and a hull form that emphasizes sea-kindliness over raw surfing speed. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio typically exceeding 310, the boat offers a stable, predictable motion in a seaway that reduces crew fatigue during long passages. The Sparkman & Stephens design features a traditional skeg-hung rudder and a hull that tracks exceptionally well, a trait often noted in technical reports from the S&S archives.
The "Tall Mast" (TM) rig is a critical component of this model’s identity, providing an increased sail area to compensate for the boat's 27,000+ lb displacement. With a Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.7, the TM version is significantly more responsive in light-to-moderate air than the standard rig. The centerboard configuration (CB) offers the best of both worlds: a shoal draft of approximately 5' 3" with the board up for coastal cruising, and a deep, windward-efficient draft of over 9' with the board down. This versatility allowed the Seguin 44 "Thistle" to famously win its class in the 2003 Marion-Bermuda Race, proving that the design remains competitive in serious offshore competition.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Consistent with its Maine heritage, the interior of the Seguin 44 is typically finished in hand-rubbed teak or mahogany, often with white overheads to enhance natural light. Because these were semi-custom builds, the layouts vary, though most feature a two-cabin arrangement with a large V-berth forward and a dedicated owner's cabin or quarter berth aft. The salon usually includes a robust U-shaped galley designed for use at sea, complete with deep sinks and ample refrigeration.
The model saw several architectural siblings built on variations of the same hull mold. While the 44 was the most popular, Lyman-Morse also produced the Seguin 40 and the Seguin 46. The latter often utilized the same hull mold as the 44 but featured an extended counter stern and different transom treatments. Later evolutions of the series, such as the Seguin 52 Fairweather, transitioned toward more modern performance materials like carbon fiber and SCRIMP-molded hulls, though they maintained the classic S&S aesthetic.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Seguin 44 has earned a quiet but formidable reputation in the cruising community. Beyond its racing success with "Thistle," the model has been the vessel of choice for high-latitude researchers and serious circumnavigators. One notable hull, formerly named "Rainbow" and later "Rebecca," was refitted specifically for use as an offshore research vessel, a testament to the hull's structural integrity and reliability in remote environments. The boat’s development is frequently cited in Scuttlebutt Sailing News as a turning point for Lyman-Morse, marking their transition into the high-end custom sailing market.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach a Seguin 44 with the understanding that these are aging custom yachts requiring meticulous maintenance. High-signal areas for inspection include:
- Teak Deck Integrity: Most Seguins were built with traditional teak-over-fiberglass decks. At 40+ years old, these decks may suffer from worn-down wood or, more critically, moisture intrusion into the sub-deck core through screw holes.
- Centerboard Mechanism: The "CB" version relies on a complex lifting mechanism. The board, its pin, and the internal pennant system should be inspected for corrosion or "slop" within the trunk, which can cause audible knocking while at anchor or under sail.
- Composite Core Condition: While the hulls are robust, early 1980s composite construction often utilized balsa or foam cores in the decks and cabin house. Surveyors should check for delamination or soft spots around high-load hardware like stanchions and winches.
- Stainless Steel Rod Rigging: Many TM models were delivered with rod rigging for performance. If this has not been replaced within the last 10–12 years, it should be considered "end of life" regardless of visual appearance.
The Verdict
The Seguin 44 CB TM is a "sailor's sailboat," blending the timeless naval architecture of Olin Stephens with the uncompromising build quality of a premier Maine shipyard.
Pros:
- Exquisite Maine craftsmanship and high-end joinery.
- The centerboard provides exceptional versatility for both Caribbean shoal-draft cruising and deep-water racing.
- The Tall Mast rig addresses the "heavy" feel typical of many 1980s cruisers.
- Excellent resale value and long-term durability.
Cons:
- Significant maintenance requirements for teak-heavy exteriors.
- The centerboard system adds mechanical complexity and potential failure points.
- Rigging and systems are often custom, making replacements more expensive than production counterparts.
