k peterson 44

[manny]

hi all, i need any info on kp44 cutters. so far everything ive seen or heard of them i like. the 3 that i'll be looking at have had fuel, water, and holding tanks replaced. if you know of anything else i should be watching for please let me know. thanks , manny

[donradcliffe]

I loooked at one in Solomons, MD years ago and noticed the decks were spongy forward of the mast--do a little dance on the foredeck.

[GordMay]

Kelly-Peterson 44
The Peterson Cutter Owner's Group has a great site:
Peterson Cutter Website - Welcome
Including:
Table of Contents by Category
and much more ...

[Bev & Bill]

We looked at them as well and would agree with the 'spongy deck' problem with a projected cost for one we looked at of $30,000 to replace. We had heard great reports on their sailing ability and that they are very good handling boats, particularly on offshore passages. We opted for a Tayana Vancouver 44 which we have been very happy with.

[southernman]

Watch for blisters like any boat of this age/era. There is one here in Auckland that has just been fixed for the cost of 40k.

[roblanford]

I lived aboard and coastal cruised a peterson 44 for 8+ years. The center cockpit/aft cabin layout was very enjoyable for living and sailing. It will sail circles around many other boats in the same price range.

The negatives I saw in addition to what has already been stated:

The veneer on the interior cabinetry is very thin.
The original wiring is sloppy and mediocre quality.
The outboard battery and auxillary generator positions are not desirable.
Some people do not like the original Perkins 4-154 engine. Mine had over 6600 hours on it when I sold it, and it still ran fine.
These can be dealt with with carefull maintenenace and modification.
The bilge is shallow necessitating the outboard fuel tankage.
The aging teak decks on some while pretty, are the source of many headaches.

I deeply regret selling the KP44 I had and if I could afford one now I would not hesitate buying one, especially one that has had the problems dealt with.

If you do buy one put some padding under the top of the entrance to the passageway to the aft cabin and the edge of the door molding at the aft cabin. its easy to bang you head on these.