In the Fountaine Pajot programme, the Helia 44 takes over the position of the Orana 44, which was launched just four years ago (test in YACHT 18/08). The redesign brought a series of well thought-out and successfully realised modifications. The most striking example of this is the new lounge area, a seating area with sun loungers on the roof. When the weather is fine, fellow sailors can sit and sunbathe here comfortably, safely and with a marvellous view. The design of the working cockpit, which is raised to the side, is also new. The helm position is now set back, away from the cabin bulkhead and away from the lines, winches and stoppers.
The Berret/Racoupeau design is intended to stand out not only in terms of construction, but also visually. Compared to the Orana, the lines have become simpler, straighter and more angular. Although the hulls of the new boat are more voluminous, they are flatter at the bottom. As a result, the Helia 44 is surprisingly lively when manoeuvring and can be steered almost like a monohull, even downwind.
Inside, the central living area between the hulls has undergone a conceptual reorganisation. The galley is now built directly against the cabin bulkhead and connects the interior with the exterior as a central element. The layout in the hulls remains the tried-and-tested arrangement as an owner's version (three cabins, three heads) or in a charter-orientated version with four cabins, each with its own bathroom.
The Helia 44 will be making its debut at the trade fair in Düsseldorf (Hall 15, Stand A 36).The detailed test can now be read in the current issue of YACHT No. 3/2013
