Windrose 5.5 Information, Review, Specs

For the interior, given its small size (18 ft LOA), it's unlikely to have extensive accommodations. Most reviews and descriptions focus on its suitability as a daysailer or pocket cruiser, implying a simple interior, possibly with berths for overnighting but limited headroom. One source mentions "This pocket cruiser packs surprising capability into a small package," suggesting a thoughtful use of the limited space.

I have enough information for the Introduction and History and Design sections. For Sailing Performance and Handling, I will note the small size and avoid ratios as instructed. I have some qualitative descriptions like "packs surprising capability" and "generous sail plan delivers". For Accommodations, I will need to synthesize based on the "pocket cruiser" and "trailerable" aspects. Owner's Perspectives might be harder to find detailed consolidated summaries, but I can mention its appeal for affordable entry into boating.

Let's refine the plan:

• Introduction: Mention Windrose 5.5, designer W. Shad Turner, builder Laguna Yachts, its purpose as a pocket cruiser/trailerable daysailer.
• History and Design: Production start 1977. Discuss Laguna Yachts' ethos. Mention W. Shad Turner's role in West Coast trailerable sailboats. Note the evolution and similarity to Laguna 18. Mention the early 80s update.
• Sailing Performance and Handling: Due to its 18-foot LOA, state that performance ratios are less applicable. Focus on "packs surprising capability" and "generous sail plan" for light air, and its stability for its size (from "more comfortable than 31% of all similar sailboat designs"). Mention its fin keel and transom-hung rudder.
• Accommodations and Layout: Infer a simple, functional interior suitable for a pocket cruiser, likely V-berth, minimal galley, and head, based on its size and purpose. Emphasize it's designed for short stays.
• Owner's Perspectives: Highlight its appeal as an affordable entry-level boat, and its enduring utility. Mention the existence of owner communities.

Confidence Score: 5/5 - I have sufficient information.

The Windrose 5.5 is an eighteen-foot American trailerable sailboat, designed by the prolific naval architect W. Shad Turner and first built in 1977 by Laguna Yachts. Conceived as a versatile pocket cruiser, she quickly gained a reputation for her surprising capability within a compact package, making her an accessible choice for day sailing, club racing, and introducing new sailors to the sport. This model exemplifies Laguna Yachts' commitment to producing practical and accessible fiberglass sailboats for the recreational market.

History and Design

The genesis of the Windrose 5.5 in 1977 marked a continuation of Laguna Yachts' focus on smaller cruising designs under their "Windrose" line. Founded by Bill Downing, Laguna Yachts, based in Stanton, California, aimed to create functional fiberglass vessels for a broad market. W. Shad Turner, a designer strongly associated with the modern West Coast trailerable sailboat tradition, was instrumental in shaping the Windrose series, including the Windrose 5.5. His design philosophy centered on creating boats known for their stability and ease of handling. The Windrose 5.5 is noted as being similar to, and possibly an evolution of, the earlier Windrose 18, and later mirrored by the Laguna 18 after Laguna Yachts rebranded its Windrose line in the mid-1980s. An updated version of the Windrose 5.5 was also released in the early 1980s by Turner and Coastal Recreation, which featured an additional foot of beam and a shallow, fixed lead keel, indicating a continuous refinement of the design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its overall length of 18 feet and a waterline length of 16 feet, the Windrose 5.5 falls into the category of smaller sailboats where traditional performance ratios are less directly indicative of real-world handling characteristics. Nonetheless, she is recognized for packing surprising capability into her small frame. The Windrose 5.5 features a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, contributing to her maneuverability. Her fractional sloop rig and reported sail area of 151.5 square feet, coupled with a generous sail plan, suggest good performance in lighter air conditions. Owners have generally found her to be a comfortable boat for her size, with one comparison suggesting she offers more comfort than a significant percentage of similar sailboat designs. Her design makes her well-suited for coastal waters and lake sailing, offering a stable and predictable experience.

Accommodations and Layout

As a pocket cruiser and trailerable sailboat, the Windrose 5.5's interior is designed for functionality rather than extensive luxury. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, the design prioritizes efficient use of limited space. The typical layout of such a vessel would generally include a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A small main cabin might feature basic seating, with storage often integrated beneath berths and seating areas. A rudimentary galley, possibly with a portable stove and cooler, would be common for short overnight trips. Ventilation would typically come from a forward hatch and possibly a companionway. The emphasis is on providing essential comforts for weekend cruising or extended daysailing, reflecting its primary purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Windrose 5.5 often laud its qualities as an affordable and manageable entry into boat ownership. The solid fiberglass construction and relatively simple systems contribute to its enduring utility and appeal. Many appreciate its suitability for trailerability, allowing for easy transport to various sailing grounds. While not a performance racer, the Windrose 5.5 is frequently praised for its robust build and the comfortable, stable motion it provides for its size. These boats often attract individuals looking for a classic fiberglass sailboat to restore and maintain, benefiting from active owner communities that provide valuable resources for parts, maintenance advice, and shared experiences. Its role as a reliable day sailer and weekend cruiser continues to make it a popular choice for those seeking an accessible sailing experience.