Vindo 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Vindo 40 is rooted in the rich boat-building tradition of Nötesunds Varv AB, a company founded by Carl Andersson's grandfather in 1926. Carl Andersson, a third-generation boat builder, established his own company that focused on crafting elegant regatta yachts and traditional "koster" types, eventually leading to the iconic "Vindö" range. The Vindo 40, designed by Carl Andersson himself, was a significant model for the yard, seeing widespread success. Its production run from 1970 to 1982 falls within a pivotal era for the builder, who had largely transitioned from wooden construction to Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) around 1965, though the sailing plug for the Vindo 40 in 1971 was notably the last wooden yacht built at the yard. Production models of the Vindo 40 utilized GRP for their hulls, maintaining the brand's signature aesthetic with beautiful mahogany superstructures that set them apart in the market. Carl Andersson's design philosophy emphasized quality, style, and comfort, ensuring that even larger models like the Vindo 40 maintained pleasing lines and excellent seakeeping abilities. While there is no specific mention of "MkI" or "MkII" variations, the consistent design by Carl Andersson and the long production run suggest a refined and stable design without major alterations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Vindo 40 is characterized by its heavy displacement and long keel hull type, a design choice that contributes significantly to its renowned directional stability and comfortable motion in a seaway. With a Displacement-to-Length ratio of approximately 343.8, the Vindo 40 clearly falls into the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, indicating a yacht built for comfort and seaworthiness rather than outright speed. Its Ballast-to-Displacement ratio of about 0.365 suggests a decent level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze, though it might not be as stiff as vessels with a higher ballast ratio. The Sail Area to Displacement ratio, at around 13.42, indicates that the Vindo 40 is not primarily a light-air performer; she requires a moderate to fresh breeze to truly come alive, consistent with her identity as a robust cruising yacht. Owners frequently praise the Vindo 40 for its excellent stability and ease of handling, highlighting its suitability for blue water cruising. The long keel design, while contributing to directional stability, means the Vindo 40 will track well but might require more effort and space for tight maneuvers compared to a fin-keeled boat.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Vindo 40 is a hallmark of Swedish craftsmanship, emphasizing classic elegance and practical comfort, often described as a "piece of fine furniture". While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the general design prioritizes a cozy and functional living space. Typical interior layouts often feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Owners frequently laud the boat's interior for its extensive use of warm, attractive teak and mahogany woodwork, which is a signature element of Vindö yachts and provides a rich, inviting atmosphere. Storage is generally well-thought-out, with ample lockers and shelving throughout the cabin, catering to the needs of cruisers. Ventilation is typically achieved through traditional deck hatches and portlights. The overall finish quality is consistently noted as exceptional, reflecting the yard's commitment to meticulous workmanship and thoughtful layouts. Some listings indicate the boat is equipped with 5-6 berths.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Vindo 40 consistently express deep appreciation for its robust construction, seaworthiness, and timeless beauty. Many describe the boat as a "seaworthy Swedish cruiser" with a "beautifully stylish" appearance. Its solid build quality and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently cited strengths, making it a reliable choice for extended cruising and offshore voyages. The distinctive mahogany superstructure is also a recurring point of praise, adding to the boat's classic appeal.

While generally well-regarded, some common points of discussion among owners relate to maintenance aspects typical of older boats. A potential issue noted by some is the encapsulation of the lead ballast, where the GRP covering might split or come away, requiring repair. As with any yacht of its vintage, owners highlight the importance of inspecting for potential rot, particularly given the extensive use of wood in the superstructure and interior. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the Vindo 40 is widely considered a highly successful boat, cherished by a dedicated community for its enduring quality and comfortable cruising capabilities.