Allied Seawind Mk II Cutter Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Seawind Mk II Cutter is defined by its substantial displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio, which frequently exceeds 390. This characterizes the vessel as a traditional heavy-displacement cruiser that prioritizes momentum and sea-kindliness over raw speed in light air. Under sail, the boat is remarkably stable; its full keel with a protected propeller aperture allows it to track with minimal helm correction, a trait highly prized by single-handed offshore sailors.

The cutter rig provides a distinct advantage over the ketch version for those navigating high-latitude or stormy regions. By reefing the mainsail and flying a dedicated staysail, the center of effort remains low and centered, reducing heel and improving control when conditions deteriorate. While the Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio is relatively low, suggesting the boat requires at least 10–12 knots of breeze to "wake up," owners noted in editorial reviews from Cruising World that once the hull reaches hull speed, it carries its way through chop with a soft motion that lighter modern boats cannot replicate.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Mk II was a significant departure from the original Seawind 30 in terms of interior volume. By increasing the beam to 10' 5" and extending the waterline, Gillmer created a living space that feels closer to a 36-footer of the same era. The layout is traditional: a forward V-berth followed by a full-width head, a main saloon with a drop-leaf table, and a functional galley near the companionway.

The "Cutter" designation primarily affects the deck hardware and rig, as the interior remains largely consistent across the sibling models. The craftsmanship is typical of the Allied Boat Company, featuring extensive use of structural bulkheads and high-quality joinery. While the Princess 36 and the Mistress 39 offered more expansive "great cabin" layouts, the Seawind II optimized its 32 feet by providing 6' 2" of headroom and substantial storage capacity for long-range provisioning. The sibling "Seawind II Ketch" remains the most common variant, but the Cutter is often sought after for its less cluttered cockpit and reduced standing rigging maintenance.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Seawind lineage is cemented in maritime history by Alan Eddy, who completed the first fiberglass circumnavigation aboard the original Seawind 30, Apogee, in the 1960s. While the Mk II was a later design, it inherited this "bulletproof" reputation. The model has been a perennial favorite in "Best Used Boat" features by publications like Practical Sailor, where it is frequently cited as a premier choice for budget-conscious cruisers planning blue-water voyages.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Allied Seawind Mk II should focus their inspections on the specific technical quirks inherent to 1970s Allied builds.

• Chainplates: The chainplates are often glassed into the hull or hidden behind cabinetry. Over time, moisture can seep down the chainplate and cause corrosion that is difficult to detect without invasive inspection.
• Fuel Tank Material: Many original units were equipped with black iron or aluminum fuel tanks located under the cockpit sole. These are prone to "pinhole" corrosion from the outside-in due to trapped moisture; replacement often requires significant fiberglass work.
• Deck Core: Like many boats of this era, the deck is balsa-cored. While the hull is solid fiberglass, the deck hardware—if not re-bedded every decade—can allow water into the core, leading to soft spots, particularly around the mast partner and stanchion bases.
• Rudder Delamination: The rudder is a foam-filled fiberglass structure over a stainless steel frame. If the skin is breached, the internal foam can waterlog, leading to weight issues or internal corrosion of the rudder post.

Community & Resources

The Allied Seawind II remains supported by a robust community of owners who value the boat's offshore capabilities. The Allied Seawind II Association serves as the primary repository for technical manuals, rigging diagrams, and historical data. Many owners also frequent the Allied Boat Company technical groups to discuss restoration projects and component sourcing for the Westerbeke or Yanmar engines that were common factory installs.

The Verdict

The Allied Seawind Mk II Cutter is a formidable "pocket cruiser" that offers a level of security rarely found in modern production yachts of its size. It is a boat designed for the horizon, not the racecourse.

Pros:

• Exceptional heavy-weather stability and tracking.
• Over-built, solid fiberglass hull with no core below the waterline.
• Impressive interior volume and headroom for a 32-foot vessel.
• Protected prop and rudder assembly ideal for cruising in debris-heavy or shallow waters.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds (under 8 knots).
• High maintenance requirements for aging chainplates and fuel tanks.
• The heavy displacement makes it less maneuverable in tight marinas compared to fin-keel designs.