Crowther 44: A Circumnavigation-Worthy Boat?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a boat to circumnavigate in, and while there is no one-size-fits-all answer, a few key considerations include budget, crew size, and personal preferences. When it comes to the Crowther 44, it is a boat model designed by Lock Crowther, a famed multi-hull designer from Australia. Crowther built his first boat, a trimaran, while still a teenager and went on to establish his reputation internationally with several successful racing boats. The Crowther 44 falls within the sweet spot size range of 35 to 45 feet, which is considered ideal for cruising couples or small families without escalating costs. However, it's important to note that the suitability of a boat also depends on factors such as design, construction, and outfitting.

The Crowther 44's speed and performance

The Crowther 44 is a fast boat if you keep the weight off. The design is slick and it looks like it slices through the water. The Crowther 40, which is similar to the Crowther 44, can sail at 10 knots in 12-14 knots of wind. It can also sail at 6 knots in 8 knots of wind.

The Crowther 44 is a multihull, a type of boat that is known for its speed. It is a sailboat, which means that its speed is limited by the wind. However, the Crowther 44's large waterline length means that it has a high theoretical top speed.

The Crowther 44 is also a stable boat. Its two hulls and heavy keel mean that it won't tip or rock easily. This makes it a good choice for sailing in rough conditions.

In terms of comfort, the Crowther 44 may be less comfortable than a monohull boat. Its two hulls mean that it has more room for living space and storage. However, it may not have as much headroom as a monohull boat.

Overall, the Crowther 44 is a fast and stable boat that is well-suited for circumnavigation. Its speed and stability make it a good choice for sailing in a variety of conditions. However, its comfort level may be lower than that of a monohull boat.

The boat's ability to handle rough weather conditions

The Crowther 44 is a capable boat in rough weather conditions. Its design and construction make it a good choice for circumnavigation.

The Crowther 44 is a multi-hull boat, which are known for their ability to handle rough weather. Multi-hull boats are more stable and have better sailing performance in rough conditions than mono-hulls. They are also less likely to capsize and have a shallower draft, which makes them ideal for exploring shallow waters. Multi-hull boats are typically more expensive and have smaller living spaces, but the Crowther 44 is an exception with its spacious interior.

The Crowther 44's ability to handle rough weather is further enhanced by its design features. It has a lead keel, which adds stability and reduces pitching when sailing upwind in a swell. The boat also benefits from the use of "bulbous bows", a design feature developed by Lock Crowther, which helps to reduce pitching and increase speed.

The Crowther 44's performance in rough weather has been proven by its success in offshore racing. Lock Crowther, the designer, started his career by racing his first boat, the trimaran BUNYIP, in the Easter regatta at Paynesville, Victoria, Australia, beating 300 other boats. Another one of his designs, the BRANDERSNACH, won the Sydney to Hobart multihull race in 1966, further establishing the capabilities of his designs in rough weather conditions.

The Crowther 44's ability to handle rough weather is also evident in the reviews from owners and sailors. One owner of a Crowther Spindrift 40, a similar model to the Crowther 44, praised its performance in heavy weather, saying that it "handles weather really well". They also mentioned that the boat wants to start surfing when running with the wind in heavy conditions, showcasing its stability and speed.

In addition to its design and performance, the construction of the Crowther 44 further contributes to its ability to handle rough weather. The boat is well-built and sturdy, ensuring it can withstand the forces of rough seas.

Overall, the Crowther 44 is a capable boat for circumnavigation, especially in rough weather conditions. Its multi-hull design, stability, performance, and sturdy construction make it a good choice for sailors looking to explore the world's oceans, even in challenging weather.

The cost of the Crowther 44

The cost of a Crowther boat varies depending on the model and its features. YachtWorld offers a range of Crowther boats for sale, with prices starting from $89,900 for more affordable options and going up to $384,011 for the most luxurious models.

DailyBoats.com also provides a range of Crowther sailing boats with prices ranging from $20,750 for basic models to $470,000 for the most expensive options. The yachts listed on this website vary in size, with lengths ranging from 32.81 feet to 56 feet.

When considering the cost of a Crowther 44 for circumnavigation, it's important to factor in additional expenses beyond the initial purchase price. These may include maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and modifications to ensure the boat is equipped for long-distance travel and life onboard.

It's worth noting that the price of a Crowther boat can be influenced by various factors, such as the boat's age, condition, location, and specific features. When purchasing a Crowther 44 or any other boat, it is advisable to conduct thorough research, compare prices, and consider your specific needs and requirements for circumnavigation.

Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that the costs associated with the boat itself are just one aspect of the overall budget for a circumnavigation endeavour. Other significant expenses to consider include provisioning, fuel, maintenance, and port fees during your journey. Therefore, while the Crowther 44 can be a good option for circumnavigation, as discussed previously, the overall cost of the boat and the voyage should be carefully evaluated to ensure it aligns with your budget and requirements.

The boat's comfort and liveability

The Crowther 44 is a good boat to circumnavigate in, with a range of features that make it comfortable and liveable.

The Crowther 44 is a catamaran, which are known for their comfort and stability at anchor. The bridge deck area and cockpit provide a spacious living area, and the broad platform ensures the boat doesn't rock and roll. This is a key advantage for longer trips, providing a more pleasant experience for those on board. Catamarans also sail at more upwind angles, and do not heel much, making for a more comfortable journey.

The Crowther 44 is also a good size for circumnavigation. At 44 feet, it is large enough to provide ample living and storage space, while not being so big that it becomes difficult to handle or incurs high ownership costs. The size makes it ideal for a couple or a small family, with enough room for comfort systems and personal gear.

The boat's design also lends itself to circumnavigation. The catamaran is a good balance of comfort and budget, and while not the fastest, it will provide good passage times. The Crowther 44 is also a robust boat, with good sailing ability in heavier conditions, as testified by those who have sailed it.

The Crowther 44 is a good choice for circumnavigation due to its size, stability, and performance. It offers a good balance of comfort and capability, making it a suitable option for those looking to spend extended periods at sea.

The Crowther 44's safety features

The Crowther 44 is a safe boat to circumnavigate in. Its safety features are enhanced by its design and the materials used in its construction.

Firstly, the Crowther 44 is a multi-hull vessel, which provides inherent safety benefits over traditional mono-hull boats. Multi-hull boats are known for their stability and reduced risk of capsizing, even in rough seas. This stability not only improves safety but also provides a more comfortable sailing experience, reducing the physical demands on the crew.

Secondly, the Crowther 44's design incorporates "bulbous bows". This design feature, developed by Lock Crowther himself, serves to reduce pitching when sailing upwind in a swell. By decreasing the pitching motion, the boat's speed is increased, and the ride is made smoother. This not only improves safety but also contributes to a more efficient voyage.

Thirdly, the construction of the Crowther 44 utilizes GRP-foam sandwich construction. This construction technique enhances the boat's structural integrity and durability. The foam core provides buoyancy, further contributing to the vessel's safety in the event of damage or flooding.

Additionally, the Crowther 44 is designed with a focus on performance and efficiency. The hulls are designed to be narrow, reducing drag and allowing the boat to slice through the water with ease. This design not only improves speed but also enables the vessel to sail effectively in light winds. This performance capability can be crucial in navigating challenging conditions and ensuring a swift passage.

Furthermore, the Crowther 44 is equipped with ample safety gear, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and other emergency equipment. The vessel also benefits from modern navigation and communication systems, enabling the crew to stay aware of their surroundings and make informed decisions while at sea.

Overall, the Crowther 44 exhibits a combination of design features, construction techniques, and onboard systems that contribute to its safety as a circumnavigation vessel. Its multi-hull configuration, innovative design elements, and well-maintained systems enhance its safety profile, making it a reliable choice for sailing adventures around the globe.

Frequently asked questions