North Wind 47 Information, Review, Specs

The North Wind 47 began its production run in 1988. Designed by Marcelo Penna, the vessel reflects a philosophy centered on creating yachts capable of "globetrotting in style". Penna's designs, coupled with North Wind's robust construction ethos, aimed to produce yachts known for high standards of construction and excellent sailing performance. North Wind Yachts, founded in 1973 in Catalonia, Spain, consistently leveraged the region's rich shipbuilding expertise, integrating modern techniques like resin vacuum infusion and sandwich construction for lighter, stronger hulls, while maintaining meticulous handcraftsmanship, particularly in interior joinery. There is no information to suggest significant variations or Marks (e.g., MkI, MkII) during the North Wind 47's production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The North Wind 47 is characterized as a performance cruiser, capable of both spirited sailing and comfortable long-distance passages. With a reported sail area of 1216.32 square feet and a displacement of 28660 pounds, the North Wind 47 boasts a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 20.71. This relatively high ratio suggests that the vessel is well-powered and should perform capably in lighter winds, exhibiting good acceleration and responsiveness.

Her ballast of 10362 pounds against a displacement of 28660 pounds results in a ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.36. While not exceptionally high, this ratio indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze without excessive heel and providing a stable platform in various sea states. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 246 categorizes the North Wind 47 as a medium-heavy displacement cruiser. This suggests a comfortable motion offshore, good momentum through waves, and stability, rather than being a lightweight, purely performance-oriented racer. Owners and reviews generally highlight her excellent seakeeping abilities.

Accommodations and Layout

The North Wind 47 is designed to offer a significant living space below deck, reflecting its cruiser intent. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the primary data, reviews consistently point to a spacious and well-appointed interior, often finished in high-quality dark wood, such as Burmese teak or sapele, with a teak and holly sole. The typical layout includes three cabins and two bathrooms, providing ample privacy for multiple occupants. Owners can expect comfortable berths, a well-arranged salon, and a functional galley, making the boat suitable for extended periods aboard. The emphasis on meticulous finishes and cabinetwork, a hallmark of North Wind Yachts, is evident in the interior, contributing to a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the North Wind 47 for its solid construction and robust build quality, a characteristic consistent with North Wind's reputation. The vessel is often praised for its comfort in a seaway, making it a favored choice for blue-water cruising and long-distance voyages, 1]. The well-executed interior joinery, often in fine wood, is a recurring positive remark, contributing to the vessel's enduring appeal. Common points noted by owners, as with many boats of similar vintage, can include the need to watch for potential issues like mast step condition or re-bedding original deck fittings to address leaks. Overall, the North Wind 47 is seen as a durable and capable yacht, appreciated by those seeking a reliable and comfortable cruising platform.