Opinions/Experiences with a Dean 440?

[cbcat]

Anyone out there that can chime in on a Dean 440 (late 90s/ early 00)? First hand experiences, opinions etc.

General input regarding such issues as:

- Construction quality
- Circumnavigating capabilities
- Single/short handed sailing
- performance
- Comfort/layout
- Value (compared to other cats in the same year/class)

Here's an example of a well equipped 440 in the USVI
1999 Dean 440 Sail Boat For Sale - www.yachtworld.com)

Thanks!

[sandy daugherty]

Well equipped, well finished, heavy roomaran with low bridgedeck clearance. Low price emphasizes need for a thorough all inclusive survey including going up the mast and running engine tests. Nice electronics, but can you see that big screen at the helm in sunlight?

[bvimatelot]

I took an older D440 from BVI to NY last year and brought a brand new one from Annapolis to BVI a couple of months later.

Both sailed very well and fast (they used to regularly win the Cape Town to Rio race I seem to recall) and I was never concerned about their sea-keeping abilities. We had 47 kt winds and quite large seas on the way down and with 2 reefs she was in great shape. All South African cats have lower bridge decks than French or US built boats but I didnt really notice any more slamming than any other cat I've done those trips in.

The first, older Dean was in very good shape - I was quite impressed how well she had stood up to the ravages of time. The New one was not so impressive: I thought they had cut corners on final trim finish and there were quite a few problems, which however could be ascribed to any new boat on its maiden voyage.

Get a proper survey! Fair winds, Tony

[schoonerdog]

Not to say the Dean is not a good sailor, but the Cape to Rio winner was the St Francis 44 which is 6000 lbs lighter than the Dean. It's bridgedeck clearance is actually a bit higher than most south african cats.

[cbcat]

Thanks for all the input! I don't see a ton of them out there, but ideally it'd be great to get on board for a first hand experience. Some cats are so easy to find in charter which is nice to "try before you buy" ...others are more difficult

Re-sale values places the D440 in a category with A LOT of competition.

Anyone know how the support is from the company?

Thanks again...keep them coming.

[rjrendemd]

Having owned an early model Leopard 46 I am starting to appreciate these small cat companies who make just a few boats per year and seem to focus on comfortable, well thought out cruising rather than chartering. Even when the charter boat manufacturers try to appeal to cruisers by offering "owner's versions" they cannot duplicate the solid, well built feel of the smaller boat companies like Dean and St. Francis. Good luck in your pursuit. I think you are on the right track. The Dean seems like an excellent boat.

[Lunatic]

I have one of the older Dean 40 cats, she can't keep up with the French flyers but I chose her so because if the solid build, huge bridge deck clearance and good easy ocean crossing ability

[Four Coconuts]

Lunatic, this thread is 7 years old....

[Rubikoop]

Lunatic, welcome to Cruiser's Forum, I see this is your first post.


Sent from my iPhone using Cruisers Sailing Forum

[Lunatic]

Originally Posted by Four Coconuts

Lunatic, this thread is 7 years old....

If I'm correct that is one more year than six years, thanks for informing me.

[psahd]

And I appreciate your comment Lunatic. I am looking at a 440 Aero Custom right now.