Seawind Catamarans began its remarkable journey in 1982, founded by Richard Ward. Ward, an experienced yachtsman who had competed in the challenging Sydney to Hobart race and undertaken extensive world cruising, brought a profound understanding of life at sea to his new venture. His initial vision was to build accessible and capable "off the beach catamarans," establishing the groundwork for what would become a highly respected cruising catamaran brand. The company's very first model, the Seawind 24, represented these foundational principles and marked the official commencement of Seawind's manufacturing prowess.
History and Evolution
From its inception, Seawind Catamarans has grown steadily, adapting to market demands and embracing significant strategic moves. A pivotal moment in the company's history occurred in October 2010, when Seawind acquired Corsair Marine, a renowned builder of trailerable trimarans. This acquisition was a major development in the marine industry, consolidating two significant multihull brands under one roof.
Following the Corsair acquisition, Seawind made another strategic decision to relocate its catamaran production, along with that of Corsair models, to a factory in Vietnam. This move was carefully managed, with Seawind's own experienced shipwrights from Australia overseeing the production to maintain quality and craftsmanship. This expansion allowed Seawind to enhance its manufacturing capabilities while leveraging global efficiencies.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Seawind Catamarans has cultivated a strong reputation in the sailing world for producing "super strong, safe, and speedy cruising catamarans". With over 40 years of experience, their design philosophy centers on creating vessels that offer an exceptional balance of speed, comfort, and safety. They are particularly known for designing boats that enable couples or families, even those with limited cruising experience, to safely and comfortably explore bays, coastlines, and islands.
A signature design feature found across the Seawind range is the inclusion of dual helm stations on every model. These stations provide 360-degree visibility, a critical advantage for skippers navigating various conditions, from bustling harbors to open seas. This commitment to practical, user-friendly design underscores their identity as builders of "Cruising Catamarans for Real Sailors".
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Seawind Catamarans has introduced several highly successful and iconic models that have shaped its legacy. Beyond the foundational Seawind 24, models like the Seawind 1160 have become particularly iconic, earning a reputation as a deservedly popular cruising catamaran with hundreds built.
The company continues to innovate with models such as the Seawind 1170, which is celebrated for its blend of performance and comfort, offering spacious living and easy handling in a compact form. Other notable models include the Seawind 1260, the 45-foot Seawind 1370, known for its exquisitely crafted carpentry, and the performance-oriented Seawind 1600, a cruising catamaran designed to achieve impressive speeds, sometimes exceeding 20 knots in ideal conditions. These diverse ranges cater to various cruising aspirations, from coastal adventures to serious bluewater voyaging.
The Builder Today
Today, Seawind Catamarans remains a prominent force in the global multihull market. The company continues to be owned and led by its founder, Richard Ward, who serves as Managing Director. Its manufacturing base in Vietnam plays a crucial role in its operations, with Australian shipwrights supervising production to ensure quality.
Modern Seawind catamarans appeal to a wide range of sailors, from those new to cruising to seasoned navigators seeking a robust, comfortable, and capable platform. The ownership experience is often characterized by a strong sense of community, as evidenced by events like owner rallies. Seawind's ongoing success as an Australian company with a significant global presence underscores its enduring impact on the marine industry, delivering well-built catamarans for genuine sailing adventures.
