The N44 Concept: Pleasing Proportions, Longer Range, Enhanced 'Liveability'

The Great Harbour N37 is arguably the perfect expedition and cruising vessel for owners that want the ability to cruise safely and economically “off the grid” carrying with them all the comforts of home. N37s feature huge staterooms, a “home kitchen” galley, stand-up engine rooms, massive bosun’s locker, and a comfortable pilothouse with plenty of entertaining space.

But as perfect as the boat may seem, some of our N37 owners have expressed the wish for a larger aft cockpit,  wanting the perfect place for outdoor entertaining, alfresco dining, or just relaxing. This was the genesis for the new Great Harbour N44 concept, which we have sketched on the equivalent of a cocktail napkin above.

The N44 is based on the proven 47-foot hull used in the Great Harbour GH47 and N47.  But the deck and living portions of the boat are all N37--a large pilothouse/saloon with folding helm seat, double navigator bench, starboard side settee that lifts into upper and lower berths, and portside L-settee with dining table that drops to form an oversized queen berth (or optional fore and aft dinette that folds to a berth.) 

Below, we find a forward master stateroom with queen bed and great storage, large head with separate stall shower, second stateroom with double bed, storage and available separate washer and dryer, and a huge galley with full-size refrigerator, 4-burner cooktop, double sink, and available dishwasher and trash compactor.

The N44 differences begin below decks: Located farther forwards in the hull, the engine room and bosun’s locker have more headroom, and the fuel, water, and waste tankage is all increased dramatically over that of the N37.  What does this get you?  Well, greatly increased range, first of all, plus the ability to stay off the grid longer.

But the differences really begin to show once you exit the aft door of the pilothouse. That’s where you enter the huge 11 by 14-foot cockpit with available wing doors and canvas/isinglass, giving you the option to turn it into an all-weather entertaining area. Summer kitchen and entertainment center options further enhance the livability of this space.

Improvements continue as you head aft; Instead of a bolt-on swim platform like other Great Harbours, the N44 integrates the 4 x 16-foot swim platform right into the hull itself, Euro-style. Then there is the long, wide coach roof, with space for a large center console RIB, folding deck crane, and enough solar capacity to keep you comfortable and off the grid almost indefinitely. An optional flybridge with fiberglass hardtop can be fitted as well.

So move over N37. The N44 may well be the new perfect couples cruising boat. Easily handled, economical to operate, simple to maintain, storage for all your toys, and the space for almost any activity imaginable.  What more could you want in a personal trawler?