Seawind 1000 XL Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The 1000 XL is widely regarded as a "sailor’s catamaran" due to its responsive handling and high power-to-weight ratio. The vessel features a generous sail plan with a 484-square-foot mainsail and a 172-square-foot self-tacking jib, allowing for effortless single-handed operation. In editorial testing conducted on the Chesapeake Bay, the boat demonstrated its light-air prowess, achieving speeds of 7 to 8 knots on a beam reach in just 10 knots of breeze. The addition of the XL transom extensions significantly improved the displacement-to-length ratio, resulting in a more stable platform that carries weight further aft without burying the sterns.

One of the model's most distinctive technical features is the use of twin 9.9hp high-thrust Yamaha outboards mounted in lifting wells. While some purists prefer inboard diesels, the outboard configuration offers a substantial weight saving and eliminates the drag of fixed propellers and shafts. These engines are positioned over five meters apart, providing exceptional maneuverability in tight quarters; the boat can effectively spin within its own length. Furthermore, the 29-inch bridge deck clearance is remarkably high for a 35-foot catamaran, which Cruising World notes contributes to a significant reduction in bridge deck slamming during head seas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Seawind 1000 XL is defined by its "open-plan" philosophy, which merges the cockpit and saloon into a single, contiguous living space. Unlike many European "condo-cats" that utilize a heavy bulkhead and sliding glass doors, the Seawind utilizes a targa-top structure with a soft or hard mid-section that can be enclosed with clears or left open for 360-degree ventilation. This hybrid design creates a social environment typically found on much larger vessels. The saloon features a large U-shaped settee that can be converted into an additional king-sized berth, a feature frequently highlighted in technical brochures as a favorite for tropical cruising.

The "galley-down" configuration in the starboard hull allows for a massive amount of storage and workspace without cluttering the main social area. Accommodation typically consists of four double cabins or a three-cabin "owner’s" version where one hull is dedicated to a larger head and master suite. A notable improvement in the XL over the original 1000 is the introduction of forward-opening coach house windows supported by gas struts, which drastically improves airflow through the hulls while at anchor.

The lineage of this hull includes the original Seawind 1000 (33 feet), the 1000 XL (35.5 feet), and the later Seawind 1000 XL2. The XL2 variant, launched in 2012, further refined the model by extending the fiberglass hardtop and utilizing resin infusion to reduce the boat's weight by approximately 500kg, as detailed by Sail-World.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Seawind 1000 series is the most prolific catamaran ever produced in Australia, with over 225 units built. Its cultural footprint is most visible in the global charter industry, particularly in the Whitsunday Islands and San Diego, where it is a staple of "bareboat" fleets due to its durability and ease of use. The model gained further acclaim when a Seawind 1000 was successfully delivered through a Category 5 hurricane, reaching speeds of 25 knots on bare poles—a testament to the over-engineered "Seawind DNA" cited by John Curnow in his technical reviews.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the unique systems that define the Seawind experience:

• Outboard Wells and Brackets: The outboard lifting mechanisms are prone to salt buildup and corrosion if not regularly serviced. Ensure the brackets move freely and the wells are free of significant marine growth that can restrict engine cooling.
• Gas Struts and Window Seals: The forward-opening windows are a major selling point but the gas struts are known to weaken over time. Check for signs of water ingress around the seals, which can occur if the windows are not properly seated when closed in heavy weather.
• Bridge Deck and Targa Arch Stress: Inspect the targa arch and the points where the aluminum beams connect to the hulls. While the 1000 XL is known for its "super-strong" build, early models or those used heavily in charter may show gelcoat crazing in high-load areas near the traveler.
• Retractable Bowsprit: Ensure the bowsprit mechanism for the screecher or asymmetrical spinnaker operates smoothly and that the internal seals prevent water from entering the forward lockers.

Community & Resources

The Seawind community is exceptionally active, anchored by the Seawind Owners Association. This group organizes rallies across the East Coast of Australia and the United States, providing a technical knowledge base for maintenance and blue-water preparation. Technical wikis and owner groups frequently share "hacks" for upgrading solar capacity on the targa bar and optimizing the outboard charging systems.

The Verdict

The Seawind 1000 XL remains the gold standard for couples seeking a performance-oriented, manageable catamaran that prioritizes ventilation and visibility over sheer interior volume.

Pros

• Exceptional 360-degree visibility from dual helm stations.
• Lively sailing performance and light-air efficiency.
• Low maintenance requirements due to outboard engines and simple systems.
• Superior ventilation in tropical climates.

Cons

• Outboard engines offer less charging capacity and range than inboard diesels.
• Less interior "privacy" than catamarans with full saloon bulkheads.
• Bows are sensitive to weight; requires careful load management for long-term cruising.