At the end of the last decade, the Slovenian shipyard decided to return to its roots and concentrate on sailing yachts. The motor yacht line was sold. This became Focus Motor Yachts, based in Amsterdam. The yachts were gradually overhauled, leading to a complete renewal of the fleet. On the flagship of the Power line, the modified windows in the hull catch the eye. Oval portholes have been replaced by angular and larger windows. The entire hull is laminated with vinyl ester resin, which speaks in favour of a long life without osmosis. Apart from that, the sleek lines have remained the same, with the exception of the modified cockpit area including a significantly longer bathing platform, which turns the 42 into a 44. There were no defects in the underwater hull, so there was no need for improvements. The interior, on the other hand, is completely new. The test boat bears the construction number two and was the first model with a sliding door in the stern, i.e. with a closed deck saloon, at the time of our test drives. This extends the range of sailing areas to the north. The new owner focuses on customising his yachts to the owner's wishes. The customer's ideas are realised where possible.
On entering via the bathing platform, the new design is immediately apparent. Three steps lead up to the gangway to the foredeck. An integrated seating area in the stern now offers a rear bench seat and an L-shaped seating area with table on the starboard side. The variable design allows conversion into a sunbathing area measuring 2.47 x 1.97 metres. The sliding door in front forms the transition to the saloon. Here, when the door is open, the seating area is complemented by a U-shaped upholstered construction. The two tables can be transformed into one large table by means of an insert. There is a bar on the port side. The helm station with the two well-shaped individual seats has also been fitted with a new instrument holder that offers plenty of space for accessories.
The companionway on the port side leads below deck. Here you first come across a galley with sink and a choice of gas or electric hob, microwave and fridge or a "wine cellar". Opposite is another U-shaped seating area with a table. A double cabin adjoins the bow. The V-shaped sleeping area is two metres long and between 1.43 and 1.25 metres wide. A separate wet room with washbasin, WC and separate shower cubicle completes the area. The large hatch for ventilation in the shower is a practical feature. Behind the seating group is another double cabin with underfloor berths, which can be used individually or together by means of an insert. There is also a separate wet room, albeit without a separate shower cubicle. Three cabins and six berths are also available as an option.
The two Mercury 4.2 L V8 engines with 272 kW (370 hp) installed in the test boat are remnants of the older TDI models, which are unfortunately no longer available. Two Volvo Penta D6-380 engines are currently offered as entry-level engines. This puts the entry-level price for the Focus Power 44 at 714,000 euros. Alternatively, D6-400 and D6-440 engines are also available. Bravo Three XR Seacore engines are installed for propulsion. A version with jet propulsion and Mercury Diesel 6.7 is also available. The test boat reached a stable planing speed of 14.4 knots after just four seconds. After a total of 27 seconds, we reached the top speed of 37.2 knots. With a cruising speed of 22 knots at 2700 rpm, we are in the most efficient range. Thanks to the large tank capacity of 1160 litres minus a 15% reserve, an impressive range of 295 nautical miles can be achieved. Thanks to the large 22.5 degree heel, the hull dives smoothly into waves, making it ideal for travelling in rough water. With a diameter of only 1.8 boat lengths, fast full circles are very tight. Manoeuvring is also easy in confined spaces thanks to the twin engines. Thanks to five fire extinguishers and two electric and two manual bilge pumps, everything is in order in terms of safety. The quality level is very good and the assembly of the components is flawless.
The Focus Power 44 is a successful modernisation that shines in particular due to its ability to meet individual owner requirements. The quality and workmanship are of a high standard. In terms of sailing characteristics, good manoeuvrability and suitability for rough water are impressive.