1997 Custom VDL Pilot 44

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The design parameters for the Pilot 44 were simply stated as "To the Med by sea and back through the French canals".  Introduced in 1994 by designer Willem Nieland the Pilot 44 became an instant success. The Pilot 44 has also set the benchmark for many sea-going motor yachts. Ample space (stowage/headroom/living) for prolonged stays onboard, range, privacy, and easy maintenance come in a well-designed package.

As you enter from the aft deck you are in the pilothouse. The first thing you realize is this space is much more than simply a helm area. The size of the pilothouse creates a complete lounge area for all your guests. A huge L-settee surrounding a table is found along the port side. The settee is on a raised base to make sure anyone seated has a perfect view. Multiple large cabin windows give this space a bright and open feel. The helm area is situated opposite and forward on the starboard side.

At the forward end of the pilothouse is a spiral staircase that takes to the lower level of the yacht. A large u-shaped settee to starboard surrounds the salon table, which provides plenty of room for the hungry crew. The straight-line galley is to port. This galley has abundant storage and counter space to prepare any meal.

The owner's stateroom is forward. This is a very private space with a centerline workaround berth, ample lockers and storage, and a private ensuite head with separate stall shower.

The engine room is aft of the galley along with a passageway to the aft stateroom. The aft stateroom features two twin beds, a hanging locker, and ample storage. There is a second small head and vanity on the port side of the passageway.

Natural light and ventilation is provided by overhead hatches, dorade vents, portlights, and an opening transom hatch.

Straightline galley along the port side

• (4) burner cooktop
• Large double basin stainless steel sink with mixing tap
• Convection/Microwave oven
• Refrigeration and Freezer
• Storage cabinets

• Raymarine C120W Plotter
• Raymarine VHF
• Raymarine Radar
• Raymarine Autopilot
• Raymarine ST 70 Multi-display (Speed, distance, depth)
• Interphase Forward Looking Sonar Color Twin Scope

The Pilot 44 is approx.14 tonnes. Built much like a larger ship she is a multi-chine hull made of "A" quality steel.  The hull itself is 5mm, the keel is 12 mm and the spray rails and superstructure is 4mm. The superstructure has thermopane windows in anodized aluminum frames. There are (4) 20" x 20" hatches, (6) round portholes and (4) oval portholes all made by Gebo.

Stainless handrails are plentiful. The side decks are completed surrounded by a double stainless steel pulpit and pushpit with two side openings and one aft opening for boarding. (6) Bollard style stainless cleats provide secure mooring points There is also a stainless steel swim ladder on the swim platform,

The large engine room is located under the pilothouse and is accessed through a door just aft of the galley in the passageway leading aft.

• Single Diesel: Cummins 6 BTA 5.9 M2 120 hp with approx 2300 hrs
• Kabola hot water central heating system
• Mastervolt Whisper 3.5 Genset

The Yacht is wired for 24 volt DC and AC shore power

• 24/50 amp Battery Charger
• (2) 200 amp House batteries
• (2) 200 amp Engine batteries
• (1) transformer 24V-12V/20 amp
• Digital Volt and Amp meters