Vindo 90 Information, Review, Specs

The lineage of the Vindö 90 is rooted in the esteemed Nötesunds Varv AB, a shipyard with a rich history dating back to 1926 under the stewardship of Carl Andersson. While the builder's article indicates an introduction of the Vindö 90 in 1975 with limited production, the primary production records show a start year of 1987 for the model as it is largely known today. This suggests an evolution or reintroduction of the design. Carl Andersson, a third-generation boat builder and the yard's primary naval architect, was instrumental in shaping the Vindö design philosophy, which emphasized meticulous workmanship, thoughtful layouts, and excellent seakeeping abilities. His collaboration with John Henrik Volter Lindblom on the Vindö 90 design aimed to uphold these standards in a larger cruising platform. The builder, Nötesunds Varv AB, transitioned from predominantly wooden construction to Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) around 1965, a material choice that provided durability while still allowing for the integration of the brand's signature elegant mahogany superstructures.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Vindö 90, with a displacement of 26,455 pounds and a waterline length of 31.99 feet, falls into the heavy displacement category, evidenced by a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 360.7. This indicates a vessel designed for comfortable motion in a seaway rather than outright speed, offering stability and a solid feel underfoot. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.375 (37.5%) further contributes to her stiffness and ability to stand up to a breeze, ensuring a secure and predictable sailing experience. While specific sail area figures for calculating the Sail Area to Displacement ratio are not widely published, her ketch rig suggests versatility in sail plans, allowing for easier handling and balanced performance across varying wind conditions. The Vindo 90 is considered stable and stiff, possessing excellent righting capability. Although it may be described as underpowered, this characteristic is often found in heavy displacement cruisers that prioritize comfort and stability over high performance.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior diagrams and descriptions for the Vindö 90 are not extensively available in public records, the general philosophy of Vindö yachts provides insight into what one might expect. Vindö boats were renowned for their classic elegance and exceptional craftsmanship, with a distinctive emphasis on mahogany superstructures and interiors. The focus was consistently on quality, style, and comfort. Owners could anticipate a well-appointed interior featuring high-quality wood trim, likely incorporating traditional joinery and finishes. Typical layouts for cruising yachts of this size and era would include a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees and a dining area, a galley, and a head compartment. Storage solutions would likely be practical and plentiful, designed for extended cruising. The overall ambiance would reflect the traditional "Orust boat-building" ethos: robust, comfortable, and beautifully finished.