It all started with the desire for a "perfect boat" that had grown in a community of skippers with experience. As this was not so easy to find, the idea was born to design and build one ourselves. A boatbuilding architect with over 25 years of experience was brought in for the job. The result was the Brioni 44, a yacht with harmonious shapes and many interesting details.
Below deck, it is divided into three cabins: There is a saloon with a steering position, a forward cabin with a double bed and a cabin below deck, which is available in two different versions with two or three berths. We travelled in the three-berth version with a double bed and single berth, whereby the latter can be described more as a sofa that can be used for breaks or reading.
A special highlight is the view from the double berth: The shipyard installed panes in the companionway stairs from the saloon to the lower sleeping area which, together with a mirror in the forward cabin, provide a view towards the cockpit. You can see directly into the footwell of the saloon through three panes installed on the sides above the double berths. The headroom of the centre cabin is divided into three sections. In the entrance area it is a good 2.00 m, in the single berth area there is around 1.33 m headroom and directly above the double berth there is 1.00 m headroom. So you have to climb into the bunks. Once you're inside, you won't want to be without them, because the berths are really cosy. This is helped by firm, ventilated cushions and a pleasant ambience.
The latter also applies to the forward cabin, which has a standing height of 1.92 metres over the entire area. One step on each side makes it easier to get into bed. A special highlight here are the three windows (with mosquito net and blind) in the ceiling, which flood the cabin with light and ensure good air exchange. Storage space is conveniently distributed and easily accessible throughout the boat.
The wet room also impresses with its fresh look, interesting lighting and spacious layout. It is equipped with an electric pump toilet, washbasin and shower area (separated by a curtain). One criticism is the annoying step at the foot of the toilet.
A cosy seating area with coffee table awaits the passengers in the saloon, while an entertainment centre with audio/video system and TV provides entertainment. Dining is preferably done in the cockpit at a large table, which can be lowered for conversion into a sun lounger (together with the rear bench). Three free-standing stools offer further seating options. You can also stay in the cockpit to prepare meals. On the port side is a galley block with a 2-plate induction hob, medium-sized sink, plenty of storage space and, as a special treat, a DeLonghi coffee machine. In the back of the Smutje, the shipyard has fitted a refrigerator and a freezer as well as additional storage space.
This means that life on board mainly takes place in the cockpit. If you are travelling in our latitudes, you sometimes have to reckon with "bad weather" and cool temperatures. Then a convertible top that transforms the entire cockpit area into a cosy living room is a must. Shortcoming: The soft top and heating are on the list of accessories, as is air conditioning for southern climes.
For a refreshing dip, the shipyard has provided a huge bathing platform with a ladder that can be operated perfectly from all sides. Afterwards, a stern shower invites you to shower off. If you want to relax and sunbathe in the bow, you can buy a cushion for the foredeck for an extra charge. The way there is via a non-slip side deck with solid railing. The cockpit and bathing platform also feature non-slip structures.
However, we are not convinced by the open hedge entrances, which are a great danger, especially for children. The fire extinguishing system in the engine compartment and three electric bilge pumps as well as a hand bilge pump score plus points.
The boat's handling characteristics are also positive. This is partly due to Volvo Penta's IPS drive, which, for example, does not allow fast bends to be taken too tightly: the higher the speed, the larger the radius. The Brioni 44 handles slalom courses and abrupt steering movements with ease and confidence. The precise steering is child's play in all situations.
When the levers of the two Volvos are fully forward, the boat glides over the water at almost 40 knots. Not exactly the most economical option, but with a fuel consumption of 4.33 l/sm, the 1500-litre tank will take you around 300 nm, plus a 15% reserve. A speed of around 23 kn (2500 rpm) is recommended for cruising, when the diesels together require just under 3 litres per second and the range is a respectable 430 nm.
To ensure that the Brioni always remains in the best position, the shipyard installs trim tabs, which are required for better foresight in the transition phase from displacement to planing speed. Their use is also advantageous for the slower planing speeds, as the test boat only lowers the nose again independently at higher speeds.
The hull runs smoothly over Rhine waves without any hard knocks; spray water is repelled by a wide margin. Harbour manoeuvres are just as stress-free with the IPS joystick system. Slow displacement manoeuvres are also possible, but most skippers use the normal gear shift and conventional steering system out of habit.
The driver is seated in the saloon on a tightly upholstered sports seat with armrests, with a fold-up seat section for travelling in a standing position. Adjustment options are available in all directions. However, the height adjustment is not sufficient for a 1.80 metre tall driver to put his feet on the ground; they dangle in the air. The "ground contact lover" therefore drives standing up, which also reduces the dominance of the dashboard
in the field of vision. You can see to the side and aft through large windows.
The driver can read the instruments without any restrictions and the controls are within easy reach. This also includes the electronic double single-lever gearstick, which is used to control the IPS and engines, which are built on solid foundations. The two Volvos can be accessed via a large split hatch in the cockpit floor.
Service personnel will find plenty of space for their work as well as firmly and clearly laid out installations. Special mention should be made of the two bacteria filters, which are located in front of the normal Volvo Penta cleaning cartridges. Electronically and manually operated main switches and easy-to-reach dispensers round off the good technical picture.
The workmanship is decent overall. Minor flaws include the sometimes unclean silicone seams and the lack of protective coating on the hard-to-reach inner sides. Speaking of protection: if you moor without a fender or "kiss the dolphin", you are not immune to scratches, as there is no rubbing strake apart from the protruding side deck covering (teak).
Conclusion: The Brioni 44 has many practical details and therefore has that "certain something". Four people can travel well and comfortably with it.
Data sheet: Brioni 44
Shipyard: Vanga Yachts
Type designation: Brioni 44
CE category: B - Outside coastal waters
Material of hull and deck: Plastic
Length: 13,51 m
Width: 3,93 m
Displacement: 8,70 t
Price: 712.334,00 €
