Winga Mix 31 MS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Winga Marin AB, founded in 1963 in Sweden, established its manufacturing base in Oskarshamn, a port town with a rich shipbuilding heritage. The company dedicated itself to fiberglass construction from its inception, a material choice that provided durability, low maintenance, and design flexibility, allowing them to craft strong and seaworthy vessels. The Winga Mix 31 MS emerged during Winga Marin's most active production period, beginning in 1975, and quickly became a representative model of their commitment to the motorsailer concept.

Bruno Boström, the designer behind the Mix 31 MS, appears to have prioritized a "significantly more spacy hull design" to maximize interior volume, aligning with Winga Marin's ethos of comfortable and protected accommodation. While specific design philosophies from Boström for this model are not extensively documented, the outcome reflects a clear intention to create a dual-purpose vessel that did not entirely sacrifice sailing performance for motoring convenience. No significant variations or "Marks" (e.g., MkI, MkII) were commonly produced for the Winga Mix 31 MS during its production run, suggesting a consistent design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a motorsailer, the Winga Mix 31 MS is designed to offer a balanced performance, prioritizing stability and comfort over outright speed. Its design ratios reflect this intent. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 14.86, the Winga Mix 31 MS is categorized as a vessel that will perform adequately in moderate to strong winds, but may be sluggish in lighter air, typical for a motorsailer that relies on its engine in calm conditions.

The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 0.434 indicates a relatively high percentage of ballast, suggesting a stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to more wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 283.98 places the Winga Mix 31 MS in the moderately heavy cruiser category. This contributes to its seaworthiness and ability to handle various sea states with confidence. Owners report that its long keel contributes to a stable ride and predictable handling, particularly off-wind. The boat is often described as having good balance, making it a reliable platform for cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Winga Mix 31 MS is noted for its spaciousness, a direct result of Bruno Boström's hull design focused on maximizing internal volume. With a maximum headroom of 6.4 feet, the cabin offers ample standing room for most individuals. While detailed interior diagrams are scarce, general descriptions suggest a layout typical of cruising boats of its era, often featuring a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, and a galley.

The design generally includes a well-protected cockpit or deck saloon, offering good visibility and shelter, a signature feature of Winga motorsailers. Interior finishes likely include wood trim complemented by fiberglass liners, prioritizing durability and practicality for extended use. The generous beam of 10.5 feet further contributes to the perceived interior volume, allowing for comfortable living arrangements and ample storage for provisions and personal gear.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Winga Mix 31 MS consistently appreciate its robust construction and the versatile nature of a motorsailer. The ability to motor reliably when winds are light, combined with its solid sailing capabilities, makes it a popular choice for those who value comfort and security in varying weather conditions, 11]. Common strengths highlighted by the owner community often include the boat's seaworthiness, stable motion, and surprisingly spacious accommodations for its length, 5]. The comfortable pilothouse or deck saloon is frequently praised for offering a sheltered living space and excellent visibility, enhancing the cruising experience.

While specific recurring issues are not widely documented in general reviews, forums indicate active communities discussing maintenance and modifications, typical for well-loved vessels of this vintage. The enduring appeal of the Winga Mix 31 MS on the secondary market is a testament to its practical design, durable construction, and the comfortable cruising experience it continues to offer its owners.