The New Fjord 440 Open: A 13-meter open boat that emphasizes versatility

Fjord is updating its 13-meter model with the 440 Open. While the silhouette remains true to the shipyard?s signature style, the updates focus primarily on the layout of the living spaces, the ergonomics of the helm station, and the integration of equipment. The boat will make its debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival, September 8?13, 2026.

The Fjord 440 Open is the successor to a generation of boats that has greatly contributed to the German manufacturer?s identity. Without altering the hull design derived from the Fjord 41 XL, the development teams thoroughly redesigned the exterior layout, interior spaces, and helm area to adapt the boat to the current expectations of owners of large dayboats.

A cockpit designed to adapt to different uses

The cockpit is the main focus of this new version. Fjord has concentrated its efforts on modularity in order to quickly reconfigure the spaces according to the sailing itinerary.

The electric rear bench is one of the standout new features. When raised, it forms a backrest that provides seating facing the cockpit. When folded down, it extends the rear sun deck to create a continuous surface. The shipyard also offers fixed or removable configurations depending on the owner?s needs.

The dimensions reflect this commitment to prioritizing life at anchor. The aft deck measures 218 cm long by 383 cm wide. The sun deck measures up to 200 cm long and 210 cm wide when the bench seat is extended. Even in the seated configuration, the available length remains greater than 160 cm.

The hydraulic swim platform can accommodate a Williams 285 Jet Tender-style tender while still providing access to the aft deck. A new electric swim ladder rounds out the equipment designed for port calls and water activities.

Revised traffic patterns on and under the bridge

The work carried out is not limited to the cockpit. The interior design was also revamped in collaboration with the British studio Design Unlimited, which had previously partnered with Fjord for the launch of the Fjord 40 in 2007. The 440 Open thus introduces a new design direction that is set to be extended across the lineup.

The boat retains its two-cabin layout, but several design changes improve the experience on board. The staircase has been extended by one step, the threshold between the cockpit and the companionway has been removed, and the sliding door has been replaced with a retractable door to provide a wider passageway. The guest cabin also features a wider opening.

Depending on the chosen configuration, the owner?s cabin features two closets, a bathroom with a separate shower, and a built-in kitchen on the lower deck when the owner plans a multi-day cruise. Several layout options are available to tailor the boat to the owner?s needs.

A cockpit more geared toward digital navigation

The helm station has also been redesigned. The console features a more horizontal layout and comes standard with a 19-inch screen. The Navigation Package versions add a second screen of the same size, as well as autopilot, a bow thruster, a chain counter, and advanced navigation features.

The Garmin EmpirBus system centralizes the management of the vessel?s main onboard equipment. From the touchscreen, the crew can control the lighting, fuel levels, batteries, air conditioning, and various electrical systems. This architecture reduces the number of physical controls on the console.

Owners who choose the most comprehensive electronic packages also have access to a suite of maneuvering aids that includes up to six cameras, a Garmin radar, an advanced fishfinder, Starlink connectivity, and the Volvo Penta Assisted Docking system combined with the Dynamic Positioning System.

A Volvo Penta engine with up to 960 ch

The Fjord 440 Open is powered by two latest-generation Volvo Penta D6 engines, each delivering up to 480 ch, for a maximum power output of 960 ch. This powertrain is paired with Duoprop drive units and integrated steering features developed by Volvo Penta, including a joystick for maneuvering, docking assistance, and automatic navigation management systems, depending on the selected configuration.

The project also highlights the work done on the ergonomics of the pilot seats, improved visibility, and the new windshield paired with a completely redesigned T-Top.

This hatch opens electrically to a width of nearly 1.60 m to promote natural ventilation in the cockpit, both while underway and at anchor. Its structure incorporates the antennas, radar, Starlink, and navigation lights, and can accommodate optional solar panels.

A model that ushers in a new generation at Fjord

Beyond its aesthetic updates, the Fjord 440 Open marks, above all, a complete redesign of the living spaces and digital systems. The shipyard has retained the principles that have made its walkaround models so successful?with unobstructed walkways and a spacious cockpit?while modernizing the interior layout and onboard systems.

The Fjord 440 Open will be unveiled to the public at the Cannes Yachting Festival, taking place September 8?13, 2026, where it will be one of the manufacturer?s main new releases for the 2027 season.

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