New Cats - Fountaine Pajot Helia 44

Fountaine Pajot has released details of its new Helia 44 blue-water sailing catamaran, the result of a $2.5m investment in research and development.

The Helia 44, a collaboration between the Fountaine Pajot team and architects Berret

Racoupeau, is now under construction at the builder’s manufacturing facilities in France.

Fountaine Pajot said the name is derived from the Greek term for ‘ray of light’, and the Helia 44 will be the 19th model launched in the builder’s 30-year history.

The catamaran was officially released on June 27 at the annual Fountaine Pajot international dealers’ conference in France, and according to company is “set to be the most exciting blue-water, cruising catamaran of its size on the world market today”.

The accompanying press release said: “Impressive offshore performance, optimal safety and ease of handling are at the forefront of the Helia 44’s design. Clerestory windows bathe the expansive living areas in natural light, while the cabins are also fitted with generous windows to afford unprecedented views. Huge volumes in the saloon and accommodation areas are complemented by the epitome of elegance in contemporary design.”

For further information, contact Multihull Solutions, phone 1300 855 338; +61 (0) 7 5452 5164 (Australia); +64 9 903 1000 (New Zealand) or email: info@multihullsolutions.com.au

QuickSpecs:
FOUNTAINE PAJOT
HELIA 44

TYPE: Sailcat
LENGTH: 43.5ft
BEAM: 24.3ft
WEIGHT: 10.8 tonnes (dry)
FUEL: Approx 470lt
WATER: 2 x 375lt
ENGINES: 2 x 40hp diesel
SAIL AREA: 753.5ft² (mainsail); 484.4ft² (genoa)