NAVY 44 (M&R)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 44 ft |
| LWL | 34.61 ft |
| Beam | 12.33 ft |
| Draft | 7.25 ft |
| Displacement | 28,500 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.9 kn |
About the NAVY 44 (M&R)
1985 replacement for the earlier Luders designed 44' Naval Academy yawls. Some time after 2000 the design was updated (by David Perick). The first of these (also for the Naval Academy) was called 'Defiance' and subsequent boats are considered part of the DEFIANCE class.
Designed by McCurdy & Rhodes and built by Tillotsen Pearson (USA), the Navy 44 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising sloop with only 20 hulls built in 1985. Its substantial 28500.0 lb displacement and 41.47 comfort ratio reflect a design prioritizing stability and seakeeping over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal and offshore cruisers who value a solid, motion-dampened ride and are prepared for significant maintenance, particularly regarding structural integrity and mechanical systems.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.62 and high displacement, the Navy 44 is inherently stable and well-suited for offshore passages, provided the critical structural and mechanical issues are addressed.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other late-80s McCurdy & Rhodes designs like the Pearson 43 or 46, as well as heavy-displacement competitors like the Valiant 40, due to similar build quality, displacement characteristics, and cruising-oriented layouts.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the NAVY 44 (M&R) 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.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
19 reported issues across 9 systems for the NAVY 44 (M&R), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a NAVY 44 (M&R)? 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 19 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
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your NAVY 44 (M&R)?
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Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Universal, Atomic 4 — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the NAVY 44 (M&R)
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