Vindo 50 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Vindo 50 begins in 1974, emerging from the Nötesunds Varv AB yard, which had by then fully embraced Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction, a transition that began around 1965. Carl Andersson, the yard's founder and the primary naval architect for many of Vindö's iconic designs, was instrumental in the Vindo 50's creation, continuing to contribute his expertise at the drawing table until his passing in 1979. His design philosophy was rooted in the traditional "Orust boat-building" ethos, emphasizing meticulous workmanship and thoughtful layouts, which is evident in the Vindo 50's pleasing lines and excellent seakeeping abilities. The Vindo 50 was notable for its versatility, being offered in both sloop and ketch configurations, catering to different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Vindo 50 is characterized by its long keel hull type, a design choice that contributes to its renowned tracking ability and comfortable motion in a seaway. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.7, the Vindo 50 is a moderately powered vessel, suggesting it performs capably in a range of wind conditions, though it may not be a blazing performer in very light airs. Its ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/D) stands at a robust 0.46, indicating a very stiff and stable boat that can stand up well to a breeze and offers a reassuring motion. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 246.4 suggests the Vindo 50 is a moderately heavy cruiser for its length, translating to a substantial feel on the water and good momentum, particularly in choppy conditions. Owners often describe the Vindo 50 as a sleek sailboat with good sailing characteristics, capable of handling various sea states with grace.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Vindo 50 is a hallmark of its Swedish craftsmanship, featuring extensive use of mahogany, which creates a warm and inviting ambiance. The layout typically includes a salon with a comfortable U-shaped galley, a spacious chart table, and a large round seating area, providing ample space for living and entertaining. The vessel generally offers two cabins, including a forward cabin, and one head. A passage often connects the main salon to the forward cabin, with a closet located conveniently alongside. With an impressive headroom of approximately 6 feet 2 inches (190 cm), the Vindo 50 offers comfortable standing room for most individuals below deck. The emphasis on quality materials and thoughtful design ensured that each vessel provided a superb ownership experience, maintaining the brand's reputation for classic aesthetics and beautiful, well-executed wooden interiors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Vindo 50 for its solid construction and its capabilities as a "solid Blue Water Cruiser". The enduring appeal of these yachts lies in their robust build, traditional aesthetics, and the timeless beauty of their well-executed wooden interiors, which continue to be cherished by a dedicated community of owners worldwide. The Vindo 50's design, emphasizing comfort and seaworthiness, often leads to positive feedback regarding its ability to handle various conditions with a stable and reassuring motion.