When boating becomes less of a recreational activity and more of a lifestyle, larger boats become a more interesting option. Under this perspective, we are introducing you to the Regal 44 Sport Coupe, renamed 46 Sport Coupe in 2011, a model launched last year by Regal, the Orlando-based builder from Florida. Why choosing this cruiser? Firstly, as with a cottage, a yacht can be transformed into a second home, which you can move as you wish as opposed to a cottage! As such, you will be able to stay for long periods of time in a spacious and luxurious environment, whether you are alone, with your family or a few friends. This is the dream of many boat enthusiasts.
Stylish and functional
Of course, there is a wide variety of models meeting these criteria and for all budgets. At Regal, the 44 Sport is practically at the top of the range, while only the 52 Sport Coupe has superior dimensions. At first sight, the 44 Sport Coupe looks like a sport cruiser, a model that combines both sporty and classic lines. Its hardtop adds not only to its practicability, but it goes hand in hand with the design of the model, as are the large tinted windowpane sections offered this year as standard equipment. For those who like to cruise in the open, you should know that the forward section of the hardtop, about 30%, features an electric actuated sun roof, enabling natural light to flood in the cockpit.
With its total length of 45.10 foot (13.97 m), the Regal 44 Sport Coupe’s dimensions are more than generous. At the front, the bridge offers reasonable space and can become the finest area to take some fresh air or simply to relax on the large sundpad. At the back, the swim platform provides additional space, which is very useful at any time, whether to practice water sports or relax near the water. This platform is also an integral part of the design, as it spans the sides of the yacht. Also at the back is an open space that is not covered by the hardtop. There is a large U-shaped bench whose back section can be turned into a sunpad. However, under inclement weather, some time will be required to assemble the canvas roof to protect this section.
A few irritants
The cockpit is very spacious, mainly due to the fact that there are no side pathways on the outside to get to the bridge. The builder preferred to use the full width of the boat in order to create more space aboard. A few steps and a windshield incorporating a retractable section provide access to the bridge efficiently and safely. We like the large bench that can accommodate several passengers while the pilot benefits from a double-wide seat, which is ideal to be in good company. While the quality of the finish is generally without major reproach, the cockpit is the source of our main critics. Firstly, a wet bar is located behind the pilot’s seat. It is somewhat square-shaped and does not seem to be integrated as well as the rest of the features on board. The same goes for the optional TV located just above, which lowers from the hardtop, but its storage compartment seems like an afterthought. Finally, there is an optional glass wall with a sliding door. This partition divides the forward and aft cockpits, creating a protected area. This feature is useful for cooling down the cockpit without having to set up the back canvas. However, the sealing rings surrounding this partition are not very impressive, an unforgivable shortfall on a boat whose price exceed half a million dollars.
The finish of the cabin is impeccable. This is perhaps one of the best sections of the yacht. The cabin is sheathed in woodwork and we appreciate the space and the clearance while the roof window and the large port-holes provide generous lighting. We don’t have the impression to suffocate. Of course, the cabin of the Regal 44 Sport Coupe is filled with various equipment and gadgets and we will spare you the details of all these items. The most interesting features are the space and the layout of the cabin located under the cockpit, as well at that of the main bathroom.
On the water
Our test model was equipped with twin Volvo D6 diesel IPS 500 engines. Developing a maximum power of 740 hp, these engines are well adapted to the size and weight of the boat. At start-up, the diesel motorization is quickly noticeable due to an increase in sound. Gas engines would certainly have been quieter, but not as efficient consumption wise, so you will have to make a compromise. Leaving the dock could not be easier thanks to the IPS system. This system, through a joystick-type lever, enables you to maneuver the boat from all sides, very easily. The IPS system uses pods that rotate independently under the boat, enabling you to move in all directions, without having to use a bow thruster. This system has been praised many times for its performances. And one becomes quickly dependent upon such a system that greatly facilitates maneuvers. However, the IPS system, as wonderful at it might be, has some disadvantages. It requires a higher level of water under the boat than a model equiped with a sterndrive engine, but acording to Volvo, it require the same water level as an inboard model with regular shaft. Aslo, if you should you hit the bottom with the IPS system, be prepared to spend a lot of money.
Of course, with this type of boat, the most efficient consumption is at low speed. At 600 rpm, the engines consume 0.5 gallon (2.27 L) per hour, which will give you a fuel range of 547 hours or 2,023 nautical miles. It will take you a long time to reach your destination. We have obtained an ideal cruising speed at 3,000 rpm, which gave us a speed of 30 mph (48.7 km/h) for a consumption of 27.4 gallons (104 L) per hour. Finally, our test model reached a maximum speed of 40.4 mph (65 km/h) at 3,500 rpm and, of course, the consumption increased to more than 41 gallons (156 L) per hour.
This proves that we are aboard a boat made for pleasure and not for speed. Even at 3,000 rpm, we have the impression that the Regal 44 Sport Coupe is never quite totally planning, while its nose section stays high up. Reduce the speed a tat and it will immediately stop planning. In short, as is the case with several boats falling into this category, it gives more the impression of pushing water rather than cruising above it. If you have a chance, again, do not hesitate to choose a more powerful motorization, for instance the IPF 600 engines, whose power is up to 870 hp, you will have a much more pleasurable cruising experience.
Aside from a few irritants as regards the finish, overall, we have been very impressed by this model. A real pleasure! We like the design, the spacious and well-lit cockpit as well as the retractable hardtop.
Review boat provided by: Groupe Performance Marine