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98data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH) buyer’s report
FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH)

FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH)

Tillotson Pearson Inc,🇺🇸· Design: Garry Hoyt/H. Herreshoff
from 1981
$3.9K – $10K est. annual maintenance
Bluewater CruisermonoCat Ketch (unstayed)Fin
FreedomYachts.org ↗

Specifications

Hull

LOA44 ft
LWL39.5 ft
Beam12 ft
Draft6 ft
Displacement24,000 lb
Ballast7,000.8 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL8.4 kn

About the FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH)

Sailpages Buyer's Take

The Freedom 44 is a distinctive cat-ketch designed by Garry Hoyt and H. Herreshoff, built by Tillotson Pearson Inc in 1981 with an unknown total production count. This heavy-displacement vessel, weighing 24000.0 lb with a 33.17 comfort ratio, is defined by its unstayed rig and substantial build quality, though it requires vigilant maintenance of its structural components.

Best for:
This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and bluewater adventurers who prioritize seakindliness and self-sufficiency, evidenced by the high prevalence of watermakers (68 mentions), solar panels (80 mentions), and davits (92 mentions) in owner reports.
Bluewater capability:
With a low capsize ratio of 1.67 and high displacement of 24000.0 lb, the Freedom 44 is well-suited for offshore passages, provided the critical structural integrity of the rudder and deck core is verified.
Comparables:
Comparable to other heavy-displacement, full-keel or fin-keel cruisers from the early 1980s such as the Cal 40 or Pearson 40, but distinguished by its unique unstayed cat-ketch rig and higher displacement (24000.0 lb) which offers superior motion comfort.

Performance

Comfort33.2
Capsize1.67
SA/Disp19.3
Disp/Len174
Bal/Disp29.2

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH) yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 44ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$3.9K – $10K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

13 reported issues across 8 systems for the FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

4 critical3 major6 minor
Structural3Deck2Rudder2Hull2Rigging1Keel1Electrical1Plumbing1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • ✓ All 13 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
  • ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep

One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

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Which engine powers your FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH)?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Universal, Perkins, Beta Marine — is it one of these?

Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the FREEDOM 44 (CAT KETCH)

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…