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Sailboat Specifications

Gulfstar 44

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Richard C. Lazzara · Built by Gulfstar Yachts (Usa) · First built 1978

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LOA 44.67 ft  ·  Beam 13.16 ft  ·  Displacement 26,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 697.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Gulfstar 44 Sailboat

Designed by Richard C. Lazzara and built by Gulfstar Yachts from 1978 to 1984, this 44-footer represents classic late-1970s cruising yacht philosophy with its emphasis on comfort and seaworthiness. With 105 hulls produced during its six-year run, the Gulfstar 44 established itself as a respected choice among serious cruising sailors. The yacht's substantial 26,000-pound displacement and generous beam of 13.16 feet create exceptional interior volume and stability, while the moderate fin keel with rudder on skeg configuration offers reliable directional control and good performance under sail. The masthead sloop rig carries 697 square feet of working sail area, providing adequate power for coastal and offshore passages without being overpowering for a cruising crew. Built with solid fiberglass hulls and balsa-cored decks, these boats were constructed to handle extended voyaging. The impressive comfort ratio of 33.95 reflects the yacht's motion characteristics in seaway conditions, while the conservative capsize screening value of 1.78 indicates good stability margins for offshore work. With a theoretical hull speed approaching 8 knots, the Gulfstar 44 offers respectable passage-making ability combined with the roominess and sea-keeping qualities that made it popular among long-distance cruisers of its era.

Known Issues View all 9 issues →
High
The balsa-cored deck is prone to water intrusion around deck hardware, chainplates, and stanchion bases. Once wet, the balsa core rots and loses structural integrity, often spreading well beyond the original entry point before detection.
High
The encapsulated lead keel on the fin configuration can develop weeping at the hull-to-keel joint, and the internal keel bolts are difficult to inspect. Gulfstar's layup in this area is known to crack under grounding stress, allowing water to migrate into the laminate.
High
Chainplate knees are glassed into the interior cabinetwork and are difficult to inspect without destructive access. Water tracking down the chainplates from deck leaks can saturate the glassed-in flanges and weaken the attachment before any visible sign appears below.
+ 6 more issues — see full list →
Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 44.67 ft / 13.62 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 35.50 ft / 10.82 m
Beam 13.16 ft / 4.01 m
Max Draft 5.50 ft / 1.68 m
Displacement 26,000.00 lb / 11,793 kg
Ballast 8,500.00 lb / 3,856 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 697.00 ft² / 64.75 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG/ solid hull & balsa cored deck
Designer Richard C. Lazzara
Builder Gulfstar Yachts (USA)
First Built 1978
Last Built 1984
Number Built 105
Related Sailboats Lancer 45 · Morgan 452 · Formosa 46 · Irwin 45 · Caliber 45
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Perkins
Engine Model 4.154
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 62
Fuel Capacity 80 gals / 303 L
Water Capacity 160 gals / 606 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Gulfstar 44's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Gulfstar 44 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 12.76. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Gulfstar 44's comfort ratio?

The Gulfstar 44 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.95. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Gulfstar 44 safe for offshore sailing?

The Gulfstar 44 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.78. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Gulfstar 44?

The theoretical hull speed of the Gulfstar 44 is 7.98 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Gulfstar 44 weigh?

The Gulfstar 44 has a displacement of 26,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 44.67 ft.

Who designed the Gulfstar 44?

The Gulfstar 44 was designed by Richard C. Lazzara, first built in 1978.