1995 Able 44

The 1995 Able 44 is a downeast cruiser that embodies classic design and solid construction, appealing to those who appreciate traditional aesthetics combined with modern performance. Known for its exceptional build quality and attention to detail, the Able 44 is a well-crafted vessel that offers a smooth and stable ride in a variety of sea conditions. With a length of 44 feet and a beam of 13 feet, this boat provides ample space for coastal cruising and extended voyages. The single cabin and head layout comfortably accommodates up to four guests, making it ideal for family trips or a liveaboard lifestyle for those who appreciate classic aesthetics. This particular Able 44 has undergone notable upgrades, including new overheads scheduled for summer 2025, ensuring that it remains in excellent condition. Powered by a diesel engine, it cruises comfortably at 24 knots and can reach a maximum speed of 31 knots, providing a balance between performance and efficiency. The 420-gallon fuel tank and 125-gallon freshwater capacity allow for extended journeys without frequent stops. Perfect for experienced sailors who value traditional design and high-quality craftsmanship, the Able 44 offers both comfort and performance for extended cruising. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues with older models, such as outdated electronics and teak deck maintenance challenges. Despite these considerations, the Able 44 remains a sought-after vessel for its timeless appeal and strong resale value. Located in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts, this Able 44 is ready for its next adventure.

ZIG ZIG is a stand-out member of the Able 44 "Wolf" class of Downeast express cruisers designed by Chuck Paine and built by Able Marine of Northeast Harbor, Maine. As such, she is arguably one of the most stunning craft of this variety on the water today. Period. Her lines and quality of build are in the ‘take your breath away’ category and the comfortable ride and performance of the boat - which planes easily at 16 knots and runs effortlessly up to an honest fast cruise of 24 knots - is just amazing. Exterior varnished mahogany and teak abounds with toe rails, eyebrow, handrails, seats and seat backs - and most especially her windshield and transom - along with a gleaming Flag Blue hull all adding to her distinctive look. ZIG ZIG has been kept current with constant upgrading and improvements over the years including: a complete repower with larger engines to make the boat faster; removal of the original Herreshoff style interior and updated with beautiful cherry raised-panel joinery; a custom mahogany helm, and custom helm and passenger pedestal seats; low E-tinted pilothouse glass windows (port and stbd); custom accent carpeting for the interior; custom bed covers and sheets, exterior and interior soft goods, several generations of electronics etc., etc. The present owner received the baton several years ago and kept running with it by adding variable-speed bow and stern thrusters with the ‘side-hold’ feature along with a Garmin electronics package including GPS plotter with radar, VHF radio, autopilot and AIS. After a first summer cruising the South Coast out of Padanaram on Buzzards Bay he headed south and ended up wintering on the Florida panhandle exploring many new grounds. Come spring he ran ZIG ZIG back up the coast in record time with the engines never missing a beat. Winter of 2022 a refit was undertaken in Bristol, RI, with the entire deck house, foredeck and side decks and large areas in the cockpit and bridge deck being ground down, fiberglassed where necessary and RE-GELCOATED to as-new condition. The bottom was stripped and barrier coated. All the bronze opening ports were removed and re-chromed. The tall sailboat mast which looked good but made a racket at 20+ knots and was smack dab in the middle of the bridge deck seating and flow, was removed. A new bimini top and curtains were installed. Brand new custom carpets were made for the interior to match the existing - which are quite distinctive. And the custom Dyer sailing dinghy (which hangs from custom teak laminated davits), in disrepair when the vessel was purchased by the current owner, was also repaired and restored. Other work in 2022 included a new holding tank system, water heater and Lumishore underwater lights. Winter of 2024 major mechanical preventative services were performed on the Volvo engines prior to a flawless run up to the SouthCoast from Norfolk, VA. Thanks to her drop-dead gorgeous looks and handling, speed and available space/layout on deck ZIG ZIG excels as a dayboat with gobs of seating in a large cockpit and protected bridge deck with room aplenty for a gaggle of family and friends. At the same time, she boasts a very legitimate cruising interior- as perfect for a couple as for a family of six- complete with a ginormous stall shower, fantastic galley and salon with large convertible table. Bravo!

The Able 44 is a standout in the downeast cruiser category, known for its exceptional build quality and timeless appeal. Constructed with hand-laid fiberglass, it offers durability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for extended voyages. The hull design provides a stable and comfortable ride, handling a variety of sea conditions with ease. While the interior space is limited due to its traditional design, it offers a cozy and functional layout for up to four guests. This particular 1995 model has been well-maintained, with upgrades such as new overheads planned for summer 2025. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues in older models, such as outdated electronics and teak deck maintenance challenges. Despite these considerations, the Able 44 remains a sought-after vessel for those who value classic aesthetics and high-quality craftsmanship. For those seeking a vessel that combines traditional design with modern performance, the Able 44 is an excellent choice. It is ideal for experienced sailors who appreciate the nuances of a classic cruiser and are prepared for the associated maintenance. A marine surveyor would likely focus on the condition of the electronics, teak decks, and gelcoat during an inspection.