Even the very first Solaris 44 displayed the typical features of its larger sister ships: the wide stern with twin rudders, the sleek lines, the low-profile superstructure and the largely line-free cockpit. All sheets, halyards and trim lines were routed below deck to the winches in front of the two freestanding helm stations. This means that this sporty performance cruiser can be handled even by a small crew. At the same time, the cockpit and deck remain beautifully uncluttered and free of ropes.
A tried-and-tested concept, with plenty of new features
The shipyard is sticking to this design philosophy, but is now adapting the appearance to match the latest models in the range. Particularly striking is the significantly more open stern design. The side decks have been shortened aft and fitted with integrated steps. This is intended to make the transition between the cockpit, the swim platform and the side walkways easier. New helm seats and a revised deck layout also promise greater freedom of movement. Overall, the exterior feels more airy, without compromising the cockpit’s sporty functionality.
Links to the reviews of the sister models
The redesign below deck is even more extensive. The interior, developed in collaboration with 3-Studio and the shipyard’s own design team, features softer, more rounded lines. Generous use of leather and finely crafted details are intended to emphasise the brand’s commitment to high quality. The furniture echoes the design of the hull windows, giving the interior a more cohesive and modern appearance.
One layout, no variants
Solaris limits the layout to a fixed configuration with three cabins and two bathrooms. The L-shaped galley is still located on the port side next to the companionway. However, there is no traditional chart table. In its place, a separate shower cubicle is now fitted as standard, meaning that both bathrooms have a separate shower area. In this way, the shipyard is also taking account of changing on-board habits: navigation today is mostly carried out using chartplotters, tablets or mobile computers, whilst additional comfort in the wet rooms becomes increasingly important on longer voyages. The layout of the Solaris 44 can be seen in the gallery above.
Additional hull windows are designed to let in more daylight. These were available for the owner’s cabin on the previous model and can now also be ordered for the two aft cabins. The basic layout thus remains conventional, but has been visibly enhanced in terms of its design and certain functional details.
The design is once again the work of the company’s in-house designer, Javier Soto Acebal, who has been shaping the look of the Solaris range for many years. The Solaris 44 is therefore not a complete departure from the past. Rather, the shipyard is bringing a successful design concept up to the standards of the latest model generation, both visually and functionally.
The new Solaris 44 has now been laid down at the shipyard in Aquileia, Italy. However, Solaris Yachts has not yet announced a price.
Solaris 44 Technical Specifications
- Designer: Javier Soto Acebal
- Hull length: 13.35 m
- Length at the waterline: 12.71 m
- Width: 4.18 m
- Draught 2.60 / 2.40 (optional)
- Weight: 9.9 t
- Ballast/percentage: 3.6 t / 37%
- Mainsail: 66.0 m²
- Genoa: 53.0 m²
- Engine: 30 PS inboard engine with Saildrive (optional 50 or 60 PS)
- Fuel capacity: 220 litres
- Fresh water capacity: 380 litres
Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology
