Seawind 1170 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Seawind 1170 commenced production in 2023 and is a contemporary offering from Seawind Catamarans. The design philosophy underpinning the 1170, spearheaded by Richard Ward, is deeply rooted in enabling sailors—even those with limited cruising experience—to safely and comfortably explore diverse marine environments, from coastal bays to open oceans. This ethos aligns with Seawind's broader reputation for crafting "super strong, safe, and speedy cruising catamarans" that balance performance with livability. The company's commitment to quality and sea-handling ability is a direct reflection of Ward's vision and the legacy of Seawind's over 40 years in the industry. No significant variations like MkI or MkII versions were noted during its initial production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Performance was a paramount consideration in the design of the Seawind 1170, a characteristic shared across the Seawind range. The catamaran is celebrated for its ability to deliver a robust performance under both sail and motor, ensuring efficient passage making. Owners and reviewers often describe the 1170 as speedy yet manageable, highlighting its easy handling capabilities. Its design contributes to a stable and comfortable motion, allowing for confident navigation across various sea states and suitability for ocean crossings. A signature Seawind feature, the dual helm stations, are integrated into the 1170, offering the skipper 360-degree visibility—a crucial advantage for navigating crowded harbors or vast open waters. The clear foredeck further facilitates easy sail handling, enhancing the overall sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Seawind 1170 is designed for spacious living, particularly given its compact overall length of just over 39 feet [1,. With a maximum headroom of 6.56 feet, the interior feels open and inviting. The typical layout features a comfortable three-cabin arrangement, making it well-suited for a couple or a young family embarking on blue-water adventures. The interior boasts a modern design that skillfully integrates structural composite furniture with timber finishes, contributing to both a lightweight structure and a refined aesthetic. Key features include synthetic timber flooring and vinyl-lined sides and cabin tops, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance. In the starboard hull, a well-appointed bathroom includes a dual-purpose faucet and shower, optimizing space and functionality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seawind 1170 frequently commend its overall balance of performance and comfort, making it a highly regarded choice for those seeking a capable blue-water cruising catamaran suitable for a couple. The design is often praised for its thoughtful approach to livability and ease of handling. While specific widespread weaknesses are not extensively documented, some initial owners have reported experiencing minor issues typical of new vessel ownership, such as issues with certain components like gasket materials leading to fuel system clogs, highlighting the usual period of refinement for newly launched models. Overall, the sentiment leans towards a positive ownership experience, valuing the boat's solid construction and seaworthiness for genuine sailing adventures.