Pre-Purchase Survey on a Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 – Full Sea Trial and Haul-Out in the Ionian

If you are planning to buy a yacht or catamaran in Preveza, Lefkada, Aktio, Nidri, Corfu, or anywhere in the Ionian,

This week I completed a full pre-purchase condition survey on a 2019 Fountaine Pajot Helia 44, carried out between Lefkada and Aktio in the Ionian. The inspection was split across two sessions: a dry, calm sea trial earlier in the week, followed today by a cold, wet haul-out for the underwater inspection. Despite the winter conditions, the vessel showed well, with a strong structural profile and only the expected age-related maintenance items noted.

Sea Trial – Clean Performance and a Minor Vibration to Investigate

Conditions for the sea trial were ideal. Both Volvo Penta D2-50F engines ran smoothly across the power range and the yacht handled predictably under sail and power. We did note a short-lived vibration and cavitation around 800 rpm. Once the engines were brought past this threshold, the vibration disappeared.

Today, during the out-of-water inspection, the reason became clearer: the folding propellers and rope cutters were heavily fouled. This imbalance is the most likely cause, and a full clean and service should rectify the issue once the boat is relaunched. The saildrives were in sound visual condition, with diaphragm seals approaching their age-related renewal interval but showing no signs of failure.

Out-of-Water Survey – Structure, Steering and Keel Condition

Despite the rain, the hulls revealed no structural concerns. Coppercoat antifouling was well adhered, and no signs of impact damage or osmotic activity were observed. Moisture readings were not taken due to weather conditions, but visually the laminate showed no indicators of moisture-related defects.

The rudder system was inspected thoroughly. A degree of play initially raised questions, but this was traced to a worn keyway and clamping bolt at the tiller arm, rather than bearing wear. This is a straightforward repair and does not affect the steering integrity, which performed well during the sea trial.

Deck, Rig and Sails

The deck mouldings, hatches and windows were in good order, with no water ingress noted. The sails, original to the vessel, were serviceable but visibly aged. Staining and UV strip deterioration were present, and the owner has already arranged for the sails to be taken to a loft for cleaning and repair. A new suit of sails may be expected within the coming seasons, with replacement costs in the region of €15,000 for a yacht of this size.

Electrical, Lithium System and Generator

The vessel carried an extensive electrical upgrade, including a large lithium battery bank, a 2820 W solar installation and modern Victron management systems. The installation was tidy, well-laid out and generally well executed. Some exposed shunt and terminal connections would benefit from protective coverings as best practice.

The Fischer Panda generator required several attempts to start during the sea trial, and inspection revealed signs of a possible raw-water pump leak as well as corrosion on the silencer hose clamps. These items fall under routine servicing and should be addressed.

If you are planning to buy a yacht or catamaran in Preveza, Lefkada, Aktio, Nidri, Corfu, or anywhere in the Ionian,

Safety Equipment and Other Notes

Most safety equipment was present and in good condition; however, the liferaft listed in the inventory was not onboard at the time of inspection. This will need clarification. The cockpit manual bilge pump was found disconnected internally, and the cause should be confirmed with the owner. The dinghy was in good order, although the outboard propeller — a plastic type — was cracked and required replacement.

The anchor chain was in fair condition, with corrosion visible on several links. While still usable, regalvanising or replacement would be prudent.

Overall Condition and Buyer Outcome

Overall, the Helia 44 presented as a structurally sound and well-maintained cruising catamaran with a strong inventory and valuable electrical upgrades. The findings were mostly routine wear and ageing rather than major structural deficiencies. With the recommended maintenance addressed, the vessel is well suited for extended cruising in the Ionian and beyond.

Another thorough survey completed — even in the cold and rain — and a confident new owner ready to move forward.

Looking for a Yacht Surveyor in Greece?

If you are planning to buy a yacht or catamaran in Preveza, Lefkada, Aktio, Nidri, Corfu, or anywhere in the Ionian, a professional pre-purchase survey will help protect your investment and ensure the vessel is safe, seaworthy and correctly valued.

Visit www.yachtsurveysgreece.com or contact me directly at steventruss1@aol.com for bookings, availability and pricing.