Winga 78 Information, Review, Specs

The Winga 78 was first built in 1976, marking its introduction into Winga Marin's distinguished lineup of motorsailers. While some sources indicate it was presented publicly in 1979, production continued until approximately 1982. The builder, Winga Marin, was founded in 1963 in Oskarshamn, Sweden, and gained a reputation for its fiberglass construction, which provided durability and seaworthiness.

Rolf Eliasson, the designer, is a respected figure in naval architecture, also known as a professor of hydrodynamics. His work on the Winga 78 reflects Winga Marin's overarching design philosophy: to create vessels that offer a harmonious blend of sailing capability with comfortable, protected living spaces, a hallmark of Swedish motorsailers. This ethos is evident in the Winga 78's robust, spaciously designed hull, aiming for comfort over pure racing speed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Winga 78's design prioritizes stability and comfort over outright sailing prowess, characteristic of a motorsailer. With a displacement of 6,834 pounds and a waterline length of 19.82 feet, her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio is exceptionally high at approximately 392. This indicates a heavy-displacement hull, which translates to a solid, stable motion in a seaway, suitable for comfortable cruising rather than high-performance sailing.

Her Ballast to Displacement ratio is around 32.3%, a moderate figure for a monohull, contributing to her stability. However, the Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio is noted as "significantly below average," suggesting she can be considered underpowered by sail, especially in lighter winds. Furthermore, her righting moment, or ability to resist heeling, is also reported as "significantly below average". Despite these metrics, the Winga 78 is consistently praised for handling "beautifully under sail or engine," suggesting a well-balanced helm and predictable behavior, making her an enjoyable boat for coastal exploration and family trips. She is well-suited for situations where motoring is a viable and often preferred option due to light winds or specific navigational demands.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Winga 78 is designed for comfortable living aboard, a key characteristic of Winga motorsailers. A significant feature is the presence of a wheelhouse or pilothouse, providing a well-protected helm and additional living space with excellent visibility, which is highly valued for cruising in various weather conditions. The layout typically includes a separate aft cabin with two berths, offering private sleeping quarters. The galley is often situated in the cockpit area, potentially under the doghouse, allowing for convenient access and ventilation while cooking. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, Winga Marin's focus on comfortable interiors suggests a design that maximizes usable space within her compact length. Owners often commend the general finish quality and robust construction, aligning with the builder's reputation for practical and seaworthy vessels.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Winga 78 consistently appreciate its solid construction and practical design, highlighting its suitability as a "good boat" for various cruising scenarios. The versatility of handling well both under sail and engine is a frequently cited strength, making it a reliable choice for coastal cruising or tranquil anchorages. The robust build contributes to a feeling of security and comfort, even in varying sea conditions.

However, some recurring issues noted by owners include challenges with water ingress, specifically leaks around the rudder or steering system, and general rainwater seepage. Despite these maintenance considerations, the enduring appeal of the Winga 78 on the secondary market underscores its significant value, with owners often forming a strong community to share insights and support, appreciating the unique benefits of motorsailer cruising.