Designed for extended cruising, the Gran Turismo 44 combines generous spaces, power and speed while retaining the size that make it easy to maneuver. The aft cockpit is a vast entertainment area that eliminates the need for going below for anything short of a visit to the head. A large U-shaped settee lies to port with a table that is expandable for dining. The entire cockpit area including the aft sun pad lifts electrically to reveal a garage space for an eight-foot tender. On the downside, visibility from the center helm position is limited because of the wide mullions and beefy overhead. The electric sunroof over the helm is massive. Below decks, the well-lit galley is to port and a comfortable salon settee is to starboard. A standup refrigerator is closest to the steps and a curved counter leads forward to a double sink, a two-burner stove, an optional microwave. The master stateroom with en suite head and shower is aft, and an equally spacious guest stateroom forward has an island berth and access the second head. The 44 features Beneteau’s Air-Step hull with forward-facing steps and two air intakes that allow the boat to ride on a cushion of air. Volvo 370hp D6 diesel stern drives cruise at 24–26 knots (low 30s top).