2024 CONTENDER 44 ST

The 2024 CONTENDER 44 ST, named SCOTT FREE, is a high-performance offshore sportfisherman designed around speed, fishing efficiency, and tournament capability. With four Mercury 400 HP outboards delivering a combined 1,600 HP, this 44-foot platform has the power needed to reach distant fishing grounds quickly while maintaining useful redundancy for offshore operation.
 

Located in Fort Lauderdale, the boat is also positioned close to some of the region's most popular offshore fishing and cruising destinations. Its custom tuna tower and highly personalized layout make it particularly attractive to anglers who want a purpose-built fishing machine rather than a conventional family cruiser.
 

Is the 2024 CONTENDER 44 ST for Sale?

Yes, the 2024 CONTENDER 44 ST is available for sale in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. As a recent-build boat with minimal hours and remaining factory warranty, it provides buyers with many of the benefits of a new sportfisherman without having to wait for a new construction slot.
 

The boat's configuration is strongly focused on fishing, with a spacious working deck and specialized equipment designed for offshore use. Its four-engine setup also provides additional redundancy, which is an important consideration for owners regularly traveling well offshore.
 

2024 CONTENDER 44 ST Price

The asking price is $949,000 USD. For a 2024 model equipped with four Mercury 400 HP outboards, a custom tuna tower, and extensive customization, this represents a significant investment but also places the boat in the premium high-performance sportfishing segment.
 

When evaluating the price, buyers should consider the engine hours, remaining warranty, electronics package, tower equipment, custom upgrades, and overall maintenance history. Comparing similarly equipped 44-foot sportfishermen can help determine whether the current asking price reflects the boat's equipment and condition.
 

Performance and Propulsion

The CONTENDER 44 ST is powered by four Mercury 400 HP outboards, producing a combined 1,600 HP. This quad-engine configuration provides exceptional acceleration and high-speed capability, allowing the boat to make fast runs to offshore fishing grounds and return efficiently when weather or conditions change.
 

Four engines also provide a useful level of redundancy. If one engine requires attention, the remaining engines can provide additional flexibility during offshore operations. However, a quad-engine setup also means higher fuel consumption and more components requiring regular servicing.
 

During a sea trial, buyers should evaluate acceleration, cruising speed, steering response, engine synchronization, vibration, and fuel consumption. Actual operating figures are especially important when planning frequent offshore trips.
 

Exterior Design and Construction

The exterior design is focused on serious offshore fishing. The custom tuna tower provides an elevated observation position, giving anglers improved visibility when searching for fish and helping the crew identify offshore activity from a greater height.
 

The 44-foot platform offers substantial deck space for working around the boat, while the highly customized layout allows equipment and fishing gear to be positioned according to the owner's preferences. The overall design prioritizes fishability, movement, and quick access between key working areas.
 

Its Fort Lauderdale location also provides convenient access to the Gulf Stream, Bahamas, and wider Caribbean cruising grounds, making it a practical home base for both tournament fishing and extended offshore adventures.
 

Interior and Accommodation

The interior is intentionally compact and fishing-focused, with one cabin and one head. Rather than dedicating significant space to multiple staterooms or large entertainment areas, the layout preserves more room for the cockpit and fishing equipment.
 

The cabin provides useful accommodation for short overnight trips and gives anglers a comfortable place to rest between runs. The enclosed head adds convenience during full-day offshore outings.
 

For buyers who prioritize fishing performance over luxury accommodation, this configuration makes sense. It is particularly suitable for experienced anglers who spend most of their time outside and only need basic overnight facilities.
 

What to Check Before Buying a 2024 CONTENDER 44 ST

Before purchasing, arrange a professional marine survey and a comprehensive mechanical inspection of all four Mercury 400 HP outboards. Verify engine hours, service records, warranty coverage, controls, steering systems, rigging, and cooling components.
 

The custom tuna tower should receive particular attention. Check its structural mounting points, wiring, electronics, lighting, and overall condition. Buyers should also inspect the hull, transom, fuel system, batteries, pumps, livewell systems, navigation electronics, and other fishing equipment.
 

Because the boat has extensive customization, request a complete equipment list and documentation for all aftermarket installations. A sea trial should be performed in realistic operating conditions to evaluate the boat's ride, handling, engine performance, and electronics.
 

For buyers searching for a fast and heavily customized offshore sportfisherman, the 2024 CONTENDER 44 ST offers an impressive combination of 1,600 HP, tournament-oriented equipment, and near-new condition.