Wellington 47 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Wellington 47 marks a significant chapter in the history of Wellington Boats Inc., a company founded by Bill Wellington in 1968 with a clear vision: to produce yachts renowned for their strength and durability. Production of the Wellington 47 commenced in 1969 and continued through 1980, with a total of 24 units built on a semi-custom basis. The design itself was based on the successful Alden Islander 47, inheriting the classic lines and proven hydrodynamics characteristic of John G. Alden's work. Alden, a naval architect celebrated for his innovative yet classic yacht designs, focused on creating bluewater vessels that combined aesthetic appeal with robust performance.

Wellington Boats Inc. prided itself on an ethos of exceptional build quality and robust construction, which translated into boats widely regarded as genuinely "bluewater capable". This commitment to structural integrity meant Wellington vessels were often heavily built, instilling confidence in sailors venturing into challenging conditions. While primarily offered with a cutter rig, which breaks down the sail area into smaller, more manageable sails ideal for offshore sailing, the Wellington 47 was also available in a ketch configuration, offering owners flexibility in rigging options.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wellington 47's design characteristics underscore its identity as a comfortable and stable cruiser, rather than a light-air performance boat. With a reported sail area of 1110 square feet and a displacement of 45,000 pounds, its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) is approximately 13.95. This relatively modest ratio suggests that the Wellington 47 performs best in moderate to heavy winds, offering a powerful and steady motion rather than excelling in light air conditions.

The vessel's ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of approximately 0.244, while not exceptionally high, contributes to its inherent stability, an essential quality for offshore sailing. Further emphasizing its heavy-duty cruising credentials is a displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 347.5. This high ratio signifies a heavy, full-bodied hull that prioritizes comfort, stability, and load-carrying capacity over outright speed. The combination of its heavy displacement, substantial beam of 13.5 feet, and the versatility of a cutter or ketch rig ensures that the Wellington 47 provides a secure and predictable platform, capable of handling demanding sea states with grace and security. Its centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft between 4.83 feet and 7.0 feet, offers flexibility for navigating shallower waters while providing deeper draft for enhanced windward performance offshore.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior layouts could vary due to the semi-custom nature of Wellington builds, the Wellington 47 was designed to offer spacious and comfortable accommodations, befitting a serious cruising yacht. Reviews and anecdotal evidence suggest a high standard of interior finish, with outstanding teak woodwork typically featured throughout the cabin. The generous beam of 13.5 feet and the substantial hull volume allowed for ample living space below deck.

A typical interior arrangement for a vessel of this size and era would likely include a comfortable V-berth forward, a main salon with a dinette and settee, a well-equipped galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage capacity, crucial for extended voyages, would have been a priority in the design. The emphasis on robust construction extended to the interior, with solid joinery and durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of offshore life. The reported interior height of approximately 6 feet further enhances the sense of spaciousness and comfort below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Wellington 47 frequently commend the vessel for its robust construction and bluewater capabilities. Discussions within online sailing communities often highlight the peace of mind afforded by the boat's "unsinkable" reputation and heavy build, making it a favored choice for those planning long-distance voyages. The enduring demand for these well-built vessels on the brokerage market is a testament to their longevity and the confidence owners place in their seaworthiness. One circumnavigated 1975 Wellington 47 ketch, for instance, underscores the model's suitability for global adventures. While, like any vessel of its age, a Wellington 47 may require routine maintenance and upgrades, owners consistently appreciate its solid foundation and comfortable motion in a seaway.