The maneuvers that go under the bridge
The Solaris 44 benefits from a beautiful flush-deck layout that makes it easy and safe to move around. All the halyards and maneuvers return to the four rear winches by passing under the deck. This positioning, which has proven itself on larger boats, is ideal for smaller crews and sets a new benchmark, as it can also be used for racing. The self-tacking jib track is recessed in a deck reserve to avoid protrusion, as is the optional mainsail track. Our boat was equipped with a Sparcraft stepped aluminum mast with two spreaders and a nice set of Quantum sails including an asymmetric spinnaker on Facnor furler which is very easy to furl.
It lengthens the stride
Mainsail hoisted effortlessly with an electric winch, genoa 105% unfurled in the same way, the start of the Solaris navigation is a formality. With this good onshore breeze and flat seas, we set sail under asymmetrical at more than 10 knots on the beam. The bisafrans allow a precise control of the trajectory and at no time do we feel overwhelmed as the balance is well adjusted. Coming back upwind, her speed oscillates between 7.5 and 8.5 knots depending on whether you are very close to the wind or on the right side. Here again, the balance is perfect and the wind is greeted with a heel without hardening the helm. The hull even takes advantage of this to get upwind, find its stability and accelerate. Sensations guaranteed.
An ergonomic bar position
After a few very exciting tacks, we noticed that the helmsman's position was excellent at all points of sail. To windward, with the footrest, to leeward, on the well sized coaming, the position is always ideal and allows a more serene helm control. The owner of the boat being tall, the bimini is positioned high enough and gives a very secure visibility on the water. A flawless navigation.
