The MASON 44 is a sailing boat designed by Al Mason and built by the Ta Shing Yacht Building Company in Taiwan. It is a bluewater cruising yacht known for its seaworthiness, comfort, and classic design.
Here are some key features and specifications of the MASON 44:
1. Design: The MASON 44 features a traditional full keel design with a long keel and a keel-hung rudder. It has a moderate displacement and a sturdy construction, making it suitable for offshore sailing.
2. Construction: The boat is built using hand-laid fiberglass with a solid fiberglass hull and a cored deck. The hull is known for its strength and durability, allowing it to handle rough seas and challenging conditions.
3. Dimensions: The MASON 44 has an overall length of 44 feet (13.4 meters) and a waterline length of 34 feet (10.4 meters). It has a beam (width) of 12 feet 8 inches (3.9 meters) and a draft of 6 feet (1.8 meters).
4. Interior: The interior of the MASON 44 is designed for comfortable cruising and long passages. It typically features a spacious saloon with a dining area, a well-equipped galley, and multiple cabins for accommodation. The boat can comfortably accommodate a small crew or a family.
5. Sailing Performance: The MASON 44 is known for its excellent sailing performance. It has a cutter rig with a large mainsail, a genoa, and a staysail. The boat is designed to be easily handled by a small crew and can be sailed in various weather conditions.
6. Seaworthiness: The MASON 44 is highly regarded for its seaworthiness. Its full keel design provides stability and tracking ability, making it suitable for long-distance cruising and offshore passages. The boat has a reputation for handling heavy weather conditions with ease.
7. History: The MASON 44 was first introduced in the late 1970s and continued production until the early 1990s. During this time, it gained a reputation as a reliable and capable cruising yacht. Many MASON 44s have completed circumnavigations and are still actively sailed today.
Overall, the MASON 44 is a well-built and seaworthy sailing boat that offers comfort and performance for offshore cruising. Its classic design and reputation make it a popular choice among sailors looking for a reliable bluewater yacht.
