1983 Nordic 44 Boat in Charleston, SC 29401 US
Built in 1983
44
1 Engine (Universal)
44 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
1983 Nordic 44 'Seraphina': The Ultimate Cruiser
Introduction
If you are looking for a yacht that can cross oceans in absolute safety without forcing you to compromise on boat speed or racing performance, this 1983 Nordic 44 is your answer. Designed by the legendary naval architect Robert Perry, the Nordic 44 has a rare pedigree that masterfully balances robust blue-water construction with an agile, high-performance hull form.
Renowned for being fast, close-winded, and incredibly well-balanced, this vessel can comfortably clock 170+ nautical mile days on passage, yet remains stiff and competitive enough to bring home trophies in regional club racing. Built to top-tier standards by Nordic Yachts in Bellingham, WA, she represents classic American yacht craftsmanship at its absolute finest.
Blue-Water Capabilities & Ocean-Going Design
The Nordic 44 was engineered from the keel up to handle heavy weather and extended off-grid living:
- Seakindly & Stable: A powerful hull shape combined with a generous 40% ballast-to-displacement ratio results in a remarkably stiff boat that stands up beautifully to the wind, drastically reducing crew fatigue on long passages.
- Ultimate Tracking & Protection: Unlike modern flat-bottom racers, she features a deep fin keel for excellent lift and a heavy-duty skeg-hung rudder, providing exceptional tracking offshore and vital protection against debris.
- Overbuilt Hull Integrity: Built with a hand-laid solid fiberglass hull reinforced by a massive triaxial structural grid, chemically and mechanically bonded bulkheads, and no structural liners.
- True Liveaboard Comfort: Below deck features a safe, U-shaped sea galley designed for use underway, a proper forward-facing navigation station, two private staterooms (each with its own head), and an insulated interior hull layer that eliminates condensation.
Racing Heritage & Speed Highlights
Do not mistake her blue-water muscle for a sluggish cruiser-the Nordic 44 is a thoroughbred:
- Perry Performance Pedigree: Robert Perry himself once called the Nordic 44 "the most beautiful yacht we have had built to our designs."
- Exceptional Upwind Ability: Her deep 7-foot draft and fine bow entry allow her to point incredibly close to the wind, cutting through chop where other cruisers stall.
- Powerful Rigging: Equipped with a tall, double-spreader aluminum mast, dyneema rigging, a hydraulic backstay, and an adjustable boom vang for precision sail trimming.
- Light-Wind Performance: A generous sail area allows her to ghost along effortlessly in light air, meaning less motoring and more sailing during light-wind regattas or passages through doldrum zones.
Core Specifications
Attribute Specification
Length Overall (LOA) 43.83 ft (13.36 m)
Waterline Length (LWL) 35.42 ft (10.80 m)
Beam 12.92 ft (3.94 m)
Draft 7.00 ft (2.13 m)
Displacement 23,250 lbs (10,546 kg)
Ballast 9,340 lbs (4,237 kg) - Solid Lead
Rig Type Masthead Sloop / Cutter Adaptable
Total Sail Area (100% Jib) 918.75 sq ft (85.35 m²)
Water Capacity 150 US Gallons (568 L)
Fuel Capacity 50 US Gallons (189 L)
Engine
Engine make: Universal M-50 ( Kubota series) (1984),
Marine Propulsion Systems V-drive ZF-15 MIV transmission (new in 2016). (Stuffing box and log replaced in 2024)
Horsepower: 50 hp
Fuel Type: Diesel
Engine Hours: unknown
Fuel Consumption: 3.0 ltr (0.7 USG) /hour At Cruising Speed
Max Speed: 7 knots
Cruise Speed: 6 knots
Propulsion: Maxprop 3 blade and spare 3 blade fixed.
New throttle cable and control cables for forward and reverse (2019)
New heat exchanger w/new zinc (2019)
New fuel injectors installed (2019)
New Racor fuel filter and water separator, with Dent vacuum gauge
Engine takes 3 quarts of oil. Also use WIX oil filters. Remote oil filter near engine opening compartment. Oil analysis was taken in 2018.
Engine gauges replaced with Faria (2022)
Accommodations
AC - Dometic
Heater (diesel driven) eberspacher, with eberspacher controls
Hot water tank Isotemp, 5 gallon (heat source - 120 V and engine}
Water tanks, 2 x 60 gallon each
Teak interior - light brown warm look
Teak/holly sole varnished
Fold away all teak salon table w/bookshelves and wine storage at nave desk bulkhead
Port and starboard settees
Cedar lined lockers and exposed hull sides
Extensive interior lighting, LED spots over the sink and stove
Overhead galley light and bulkhead mount reading lights
Dorades (4) with insect screens
Teak cocktail table (folding) with cup holders
Berths: 4 with 2 of double berths
Overhead galley light and bulkhead mount reading lights
Opening ports (6), 4 new in 2024, Lewmar with screens
Boarding ladder with teak steps
Entertainment: Fusion stereo MS-RA70N with NHT Zero speakers.
FANS: 6 ea. - Hella Marine 12-volt cabin fans
Teak enclosed cabinets on port and starboard side of salon
A custom teak wine rack (starboard side) for eight bottles of wine.
Galley
Refrigeration/Freezer: new Adler Barber cold machine w/shelving & freezer compartment, (2025) 9 c/f of insulated refrigeration
Range: Force 10, 4 burner gimbaled stove w/oven and two propane tanks
Sink: stainless steel double sink, deep and drain screen replaced (2025) and three faucets, main faucet is new 2025, filter system etc from Jabsco Par-Mate pressure pump. Pressure water runs through a charcoal filter.
Soap dispenser (new 2025)
Fresh water foot pump
Head
Private head with separate fiberglass shower and w/bench seat
Water closet, Jabsco manual flush -new in 2022
Holding tank, 30 gallons, dockside & overboard discharge
Stainless steel oval sink, faucet, replaced in 2025, ceramic/marble vanity top
Hot and cold pressure water
Vanity w/mirror
Shower sump w/electric pump
Navigation Instruments - Electronics
Garmin Autopilot, new in 2023
Garmin 1024 Chart Plotter, new in 2022 at wheel
Garmin high definition radar, GMR-18, new in 2023
Si-TEX AIS Transceiver (new 2025)
B&G Vulcan 9 at the navigation station
ICOM 506 VHF at navigation station with DSC Remote Access Microphone
Ritchie Stainless Compass - pedestal mount with cover
Edson 44" steering wheel w/cord cover
Boston Ships clock and barometer
B&G wind vane #608 (new 2025)
B&G ZG100 GPS antenna
Sails & Canvas
Mack mainsail with 3 Reef Points, fully battened, Mack Stay Pack lazy jack system
Mack 135% Genoa
110% gib - unknown
North Sails - 150% genoa (2024)
Tides Marine Mast Track (Frictionless Hoist)
Removable Inner Stay - Dyneema
Running Back Stays and babystay controlled with cam cleat
Dodger, bimini and sun awing
0.5 oz spinnaker sail from Bacon's (used - white)
Asymmetrical spinnaker (new and never used) from iSails 2024, hoisting sock, and ATN assist
Staysail for the inner forestay, hanked-on.
Sail covers: Hemlock Tweed Sunbrella for genoa and main sail
Spars and Rigging
Dyneema standing rigging (circa 2016) with Colligo Marine fittings
Selden roller-furl system 304S
mast and boom
Navtec hydraulic backstay adjuster - rebuilt in 2024, all hydraulic lines replaced in 2024
Navtec rigid hydraulic vang - rebuilt in 2025
Harken traveler with New England Rope controls
Cunningham with 3 to 1 purchase; Harkin blocks
Selden aluminum whisker pole.
Forespar spinnaker pole
1 bosun chair
Sheets
Jib halyard - Double braid with Dyneema shackles
Main halyard - Double braid Dyneema core
Staysail halyard - Sta-Set color-coded polyester yacht braid w/Schaeffer shackle
Spinnaker sheets - double braid
Port and starboard jack lines for offshore sailing
Dock lines - 12 plait white
New Spinlock cabin top clutches, six total for most lines routed back to the cockpit.
New Spinlock and Andal deck organizers T-50
Winches
All Lewmar Self-tailing: Two 65's, Five 43's, one 40 and one 30.
Winch handles: 1 double-handed lock in, chrome, 3 aluminum lock in winch handles
and one floating non-locking winch handle
One removable winch handle holder on mast
Electrical
Eclectic Energy D400 wind generator
170 Watt Suntech solar panel with SunSaver MPPT Controller and Battery Charger
A/C D/C Distribution Panel w/aircraft circuit breakers 12VDC -120VAC
A/C D/C voltmeters and ammeters
Bow light, anchor light, deck light
House batteries, 3 Rolls, one S12-290 and two S12-128 (September 2022)
Engine starting battery, 12V deep cycle, Batteries Plus, new 2022
Sterling Pro Alt C Battery charger
Shore power 120 V, all connections, w/20 ft and Morinco 75 ft power cords
Three Victron battery monitors (2025), two house and one starter
Alternator: Kenyon Power 12 V. -120 Amps
Safety
Fire extinguishers & flares (Weems & Plath electronic flare)
Dyneema Lifelines
MOB pole in transom tube
MOB horseshoe floats
Life Sling MOB recovery system (new 2022)
Adult life jackets (8)
Emergency tiller
Life Raft: Winslow model 60ISOGR - 6 person in valise
EPIRB: ACR GlobalFix 406 MHz Battery good through 2026
Edson pedestal bar raised.
Bilge Pumps: 1 ea. Rule 1500 Automatic electric/ one Whale manual pump in cockpit
Two Drogue parashoot anchors
Miscellaneous
Dodger with zip-out side panels
Custom made green cockpit cushions
Cockpit awning, attaches by zipper to dodger
Rail bracket for outboard engine rail mount
Oversize fenders (3), one Taylor Tuff end, two Polyform G-6, two Dolly Parton balls
Teak cockpit table with cup holder
Custom flagstaff
Ground Tackle
Simpson-Lawrence Seawolf 520 windlass with chain/rope gypsy
Plow primary anchor, 200 ft. galvanized chain and 100 feet of ¾ inch 12 braid.
Stern anchor with 30 ft. chain with approx. 200 ft. ½" three strand nylon rode.
Anchor Remote: Up switch at windlass.
Boat Upgrades
Deck non-skid replaced in 2024, with original gray AquaDeck from Australia
Cabin ceiling replaced with vinyl 2024
Five operational portlights replaced with Lumar, with screens
Goiot deck hatch lenses and gaskets replaced in 2022
Stainless Steel Constellation Compass pedestal mount with cover.
44lb. Rocha Anchor with 100' 3.8 Chain and 150' of 3/4" 12 plait Rode
Bottom media blasted in May, 2022; then 3 Coats Epoxy Barrier, hauled out June 2024: 3 coats antifouling paint - Trinidad, cutlass bearing and dripless seal replaced, max prop serviced.
The Nordic 44 is a highly sought-after alternative to vessels like the Valiant 40/42, universally praised by owners as being significantly faster, more responsive to the helm, and sharper on the wind. Whether your goal is a fast ocean crossing or a podium finish at next weekend's regatta, Seraphina is ready to take you there!
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/5/26 | Initial price | $119,000 |
Videos from Veteran Yacht Sales on this 1983 Nordic 44
1983 Nordic 44 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1983 Nordic 44
Customers praise the 1983 Nordic 44 for its impressive performance and solid build quality
Many commend the boat’s sailing capabilities, noting its stability and responsiveness on the water, which make it a favorite for both experienced sailors and those new to sailing. The spacious interior is often highlighted, with owners appreciating the thoughtful layout that maximizes comfort and functionality. The well-equipped galley and ample storage space contribute to the feeling of livability, making it suitable for extended cruising. Additionally, the classic design and craftsmanship of the Nordic 44 receive accolades, giving it a timeless appeal that resonates with enthusiasts. Many users express satisfaction with the boat's overall durability and reliability, making it a trusted choice for long voyages and adventures on the high seas. Overall, the 1983 Nordic 44 is viewed as a fantastic investment for anyone looking for a well-rounded sailing vessel that combines performance with comfort.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Nordic 44 is a well-regarded sailing yacht that offers a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and classic design. Built in 1983, this model has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among sailors looking for reliability and style on the water.
Pros
Robust Construction: The Nordic 44 is known for its solid build quality, featuring a fiberglass hull that provides durability and resistance to the elements.
Sailing Performance: Designed for cruising, this yacht offers excellent sailing performance, with a well-balanced keel and a powerful rig that allows for smooth handling in various wind conditions.
Spacious Interior: The interior layout is spacious and well-thought-out, providing comfortable accommodations for crew and guests. The galley is functional, and the salon area is inviting for relaxation.
Classic Design: Its timeless design features elegant lines and a traditional aesthetic that appeals to many sailing enthusiasts.
Versatile Use: The Nordic 44 is ideal for both leisurely cruising and longer passages, making it a versatile choice for sailors who enjoy different types of sailing experiences.
Strong Community and Support: Owners often report a strong community around the Nordic brand, with ample resources for advice, parts, and support.
Cons
Age Considerations: Being from 1983, some yachts may require more maintenance or updates to systems and equipment compared to newer models.
Limited Performance in Light Winds: While it performs well in moderate winds, like many cruising yachts, it may struggle a bit in very light wind conditions.
Weight: The solid construction can lead to a heavier displacement, which might affect speed in certain situations compared to lighter modern alternatives.
Less Cutting-edge Features: Some newer yachts may come equipped with advanced technology and fittings that were not common in the 1980s, potentially making the Nordic 44 feel less modern.
Availability of Parts: While support exists, sourcing specific parts for older models can sometimes be challenging, requiring creativity and resourcefulness.
Made For
The 1983 Nordic 44 is ideal for sailing enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic design and modern performance. Perfect for both experienced sailors and newcomers, this boat offers spacious accommodations and a seaworthy build, making it suitable for longer voyages as well as leisurely day trips. Its robust construction and reliable handling make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate bluewater cruising or want a comfortable home on the water. Whether you’re looking to explore coastal waters or embark on grand adventures, the Nordic 44 provides the comfort, stability, and performance needed for a variety of sailing experiences. With ample storage and thoughtful features, it caters to families, couples, or solo sailors eager to make the most of their time on the water. In summary, the 1983 Nordic 44 is for anyone who values quality craftsmanship, versatility, and the joy of sailing.
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