Winga 862 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Winga 862 began production in 1982, emerging from the shipyards of Winga Marin AB in Oskarshamn, Sweden. The boat was designed by the esteemed Swedish maritime architect Rolf Eliasson. Winga Marin, established in 1963, became renowned for its commitment to fiberglass construction, a material choice that afforded durability, reduced maintenance, and flexibility in design, enabling the creation of strong and seaworthy vessels. The company's peak production period, which included the introduction of the 862, was primarily from the mid-1970s through the 1980s. While Winga Marin AB continues to exist legally, its primary market today is the pre-owned sector, a testament to the enduring quality of its builds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a motorsailer, the Winga 862 is engineered for stability and comfort over outright sailing speed. Given its length overall of less than 30 feet, detailed interpretations of calculated performance ratios like sail area to displacement or ballast to displacement are not typically applied in the same qualitative manner as for larger yachts. However, the design philosophy behind Winga motorsailers emphasizes reliable performance under power when winds are light or conditions demand it, coupled with a steady and forgiving motion under sail. Owners can expect a boat that is easy to handle, tracks well, and provides a secure platform in various sea states, prioritizing a comfortable journey.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Winga 862, consistent with Winga Marin's motorsailer identity, is designed to offer a high degree of comfort and protected living space. While specific headroom measurements for the 862 are not detailed in standard specifications, Winga motorsailers are generally celebrated for their often spacious interiors and well-protected cockpits or deck saloons, which provide excellent visibility and a level of shelter not always found in pure sailing yachts of a similar length. This design caters to cruisers who value comfort and security in varying weather conditions. Typically, a boat of this design and era would feature a practical interior arrangement, likely incorporating a forward V-berth, a compact galley, a main salon area, and a dedicated head compartment, finished with traditional marine materials that reflect Swedish boatbuilding quality.