Galeon 450 HTC and 440 Fly Review: Transition Time
The Galeon 440 Fly and 450 HTC aim to catch the eye of boaters stepping up from smaller vessels, offering three staterooms for a growing family and those sought-after outdoor spaces found in day boa
December 11, 2023
Above: The Galeon 450 HTC on the water. Photo courtesy of Galeon Yachts.
The Galeon 440 Fly and 450 HTC aim to catch the eye of boaters stepping up from smaller vessels, offering three staterooms for a growing family and those sought-after outdoor spaces found in day boats. These models provide a smooth transition to a larger, more intricate yacht that remains manageable for owner/operators. Both the 440 Fly and 450 HTC share the same hull and interior accommodations, with the 440 Fly featuring a sport flying bridge in addition to the 450 HTC's hardtop. Our team got to walk through these impressive models not too long ago, let's explore more on exactly what goodies these Galeons have to offer.
Above: Ample Deck Space on the Galeon 440 Fly. Photo courtesy of Galeon Yachts.
ENGINES AND PERFORMANCE
Both models run on twin Volvo Penta D6 480-hp diesels, purpose-built for marine use, ensuring reliability. The 450 HTC, weighing 41,240 lbs., has hit a top speed of 31.3 mph, but the sweet spot for economical cruising is around 21 mph,providing a range of 290 nautical miles. These boats excel as family cruisers, prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency.
Above: Helm station on the Galeon 440 Fly. Photo courtesy of Galeon Yachts.
HELM STATION
The lower helm on the Galeon 440 Fly, featuring a fixed double bench seat, is located to starboard with a sliding glass door for easy access to the narrow side deck. The wide, single-piece windshield with synchronized wipers and a spritz system ensures clear visibility. Defroster outlets add convenience in inclement weather. The A-frame support's forward diagonal is substantial, creating a blind spot for the operator. The high overhead, raised instrument console, and well-placed side door contribute to the helm's utility. The dash includes controls and buttons for electrical accessories, and A/C vents provide additional comfort.
Above: Thoughtful deck layout on the Galeon 450 HTC. Photo courtesy of Galeon Yachts.
AFT DECK
The transom bench seat, complete with a fold-out table, is perfect for cocktail parties and outdoor dining, seating up to six with two additional stools forward. Drop the table down, and it transforms into a sun pad. Galeon, known for pioneering fold-down gunwale platforms, continues the trend with the Galeon 440 Fly. The expanding side decks provide over 3'6" on each side, offering more entertaining space and a delightful spot for guests to take a dip. A unique glass window in the gunwale/platform adds visual excitement by allowing a glimpse of the water below. Easily deployed, these platforms enhance the boarding experience, and with the optional grill, the swim platform transforms into an outdoor cooking haven, effectively expanding the living space.
Above: Bright and comfortable stateroom and head on the Galeon 440 Fly.
INTERIOR CABIN
The main deck of the Galeon 440 Fly features a shared salon, galley, and lower helm. Divided into two sections, the aft area serves as the salon/dinette, while the forward part houses the galley and helm. The layout, though traditional, combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. Storage is limited due to space allocation for the master cabin overhead, but the master stateroom compensates with ample cabinets and drawers.
Fold-up table-tops and pullout stools enhance the compact space, while overhead cabinets, galley counter drawers, and a flying condiment platform add practicality. The unique gray-stained Eucalyptus veneer and thoughtful details, like textured window mullions, contribute to the boat's distinctive charm.
The Galeon offers three layouts. The standard has three cabins, including a full-beam master with a private head, forward VIP, and guest quarters. The recommended layout is the three-stateroom version with the double berth master and guest sharing the full beam.There’s also a roomier two cabin option.
Above: Bright and comfortable salon on the Galeon 440 Fly. Photo courtesy of Galeon Yachts.
BOW AREA
Accessed via narrow side decks with high side rails for safety, the bow area is a haven of relaxation. The trunk cabin's top transforms into a spacious sun bed with three longitudinal sections, convertible into three chaise lounges with rising backrests. Cup holders and hand-holds on both sides add practicality. For a forward observation seat, a section of the pad ce the boat's aesthetics.
Above: Galeon 440 Fly on the water. Photo courtesy of Galeon Yachts.
FLYBRIDGE
The roomy flybridge deck boasts a starboard sofa, a spacious double-wide helm bench, and an extra couch to port, with the option for a wet bar/electric grill. Positioned to starboard, the helm provides a full 360º view for the driver. While the open bridge offers fantastic sights and the thrill of navigating from above, it's worth considering the optional foldable bimini top for some relief from wind and sun.
440 FLY SPECS
Length overall 45’ 8” / 13.96 m
Hull length 41’ 3” / 12.59 m
Beam 13’ 8” / 4.2 m
Dry weight 36,597 lb / 16,000 kg
Maximum load weight 43,222 lb / 19,605 kg
Draft (maximum) 4’ 3” / 1.3 m
Height (including mast light) 13’ 8” / 4.2 m
450 HTC SPECS
Length overall 45’9” / 14 m
Hull length 42’ 3” / 12.9 m
Beam 13’ 8” / 4.2 m
Dry weight 34,615 lb / 15,701 kg
Maximum load weight 41,240 lb / 18,706 kg
Draft (maximum) 4’ 3” / 1.3 m
Height (including mast light) 14’ 4” / 4.38 m
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