Introducing Equity II, A 1988 Hylas 44, designed by German Frers and built by Queen Long Marine in Taiwan. She is a classic cruising yacht that has garnered a strong reputation since its introduction. Known for its robust construction, elegant lines, and excellent sailing performance, the Hylas 44 remains a popular choice among bluewater sailors and cruising enthusiasts.

Design and Construction

The Hylas 44 features a sleek, low-profile design with a moderate displacement hull, which provides a good balance between speed and comfort. The hull is constructed using hand-laid fiberglass with a balsa core, ensuring strength and durability while keeping the weight manageable. The deck is also made of fiberglass with a balsa core, providing rigidity and insulation.

One of the standout features of the Hylas 44 is its center cockpit layout, which offers excellent visibility and protection from the elements. The cockpit is spacious and well-designed, with ample seating and storage, making it a comfortable and practical space for long passages. The boat’s wide side decks and sturdy handrails ensure safe movement around the deck, even in rough conditions.

Interior Layout

The interior of the Hylas 44 is designed with comfort and functionality in mind. This yacht features a two-cabin layout, with a spacious owner’s cabin aft and a guest cabin forward. The aft cabin is particularly notable for its large berth, ample storage, and en-suite head with a separate shower stall. The forward cabin also offers a comfortable berth and plenty of storage, along with access to the main head.

The main saloon is bright and airy, thanks to the large windows and opening hatches. It features a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, providing plenty of seating for dining and relaxation. The saloon table can be folded down to create additional sleeping space if needed and the starboard settee pulls out to sleep 6 passengers comfortably. The navigation station is located to port, just aft of the saloon.

The galley is located to starboard, just aft of the saloon, and is well-equipped with a stove, oven, refrigerator, and ample counter space. The design of the galley provides a secure and efficient workspace, even when the boat is heeling.

Sailing Performance

The Hylas 44 is known for its excellent sailing performance, particularly in offshore conditions. The boat’s moderate displacement and long waterline length contribute to its stability and speed, while a desirable Scheel keel (shoal keel) and skeg-hung rudder provide good maneuverability and control. The sail plan is versatile, with a cutter rig that allows for a variety of sail configurations to suit different wind conditions.

The boat is easy to handle, even for a short-handed crew, thanks to its well-thought-out deck layout and sail handling systems. The primary winches are located within easy reach of the helm, and the lines are led aft to the cockpit, making it possible to trim the sails without leaving the safety of the cockpit.

She boasts quite a sail inventory to include a main and head (120) sail approximately 5 years old and recently serviced. Equity II has a symmetrical spinnaker, a light air sail, and an older 130-jib. She has the unique characteristic with an inner stay and tensioner which transforms her from a sloop to a cutter rig. Not to be outdone, she has a cutter sail and storm jib for smooth sailing.

Recent upgrades to her rigging are a brand-new backstay adjuster, a newer mast track, and a brand-new roller fuller for the head sail.

Equity II features a unique shoal draft, Scheel Keel, drawing an astounding 4'9" making her the perfect Chesapeake Bay or Island vessel.

Livability and Comfort

One of the key strengths of the Hylas 44 is its livability and comfort, both at anchor and underway. The boat’s spacious interior and well-designed layout make it a comfortable home for extended cruising. The large tanks for water and fuel, along with ample storage space for provisions and gear, allow for long periods of self-sufficiency.

The boat’s ventilation is excellent, with numerous opening hatches and ports that provide good airflow throughout the interior. The well-insulated hull and deck help to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the boat, even in extreme weather conditions. Her 16,000 BTU air conditioner keeps her salon cool and comfortable.

The 1988 Hylas 44 is a well-regarded cruising yacht that offers a winning combination of performance, comfort, and durability. Its timeless design and solid construction make it a reliable choice for sailors looking to embark on long-distance voyages or enjoy coastal cruising. Whether you’re planning to cross oceans or explore local waters, the Hylas 44 is a yacht that can take you there in style and comfort.