Seawind 1160 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Seawind 1160 is widely regarded as a "sailor's catamaran," a reputation earned through its relatively high Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio and its signature dual helm stations. Unlike many modern cats that utilize a flybridge or a single raised helm, the 1160 places the skipper on the same level as the crew, protected by the coachroof but with clear lines of sight through the saloon windows. In a sea trial conducted by Cruising World, the boat demonstrated impressive agility, tacking through 90 degrees with ease—a feat often difficult for wider-beamed cruising multihulls.

The hull design features fine entries to reduce hobby-horsing and flared topsides to increase interior volume while maintaining a narrow waterline for efficiency. Because the 1160 utilizes fixed keels rather than daggerboards, it sacrifices a few degrees of pointing ability in exchange for a shallower draft and the ability to be safely beached or dried out on a tide. In 15 to 20 knots of breeze, owners frequently report cruising speeds between 8 and 10 knots, with the boat remaining stiff and predictable. The placement of the engines (either twin 29hp Yanmar diesels in the Deluxe or twin 25hp Yamaha outboards in the Lite) is situated far aft, which aids in maneuverability under power but requires the skipper to be mindful of weight distribution to prevent stern squatting.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Seawind 1160 is defined by the manufacturer’s commitment to ergonomics and ventilation. The standout feature is the tri-fold door system, which hinges up and stows under the targa roof, effectively removing the barrier between the cockpit and the galley-up or galley-down interior. Most 1160s are configured with a three-cabin "Owner’s Layout," where the entire starboard hull is dedicated to a master suite featuring a queen-sized berth, a dedicated desk/office area, and a large head forward.

The model has seen three significant variations:

1. Seawind 1160 Deluxe: The standard cruising version, featuring timber finishes, Yanmar inboard diesels, and high-end cabinetry.
2. Seawind 1160 Lite: Introduced later to provide a more accessible price point, the Lite replaces the heavy timber with lightweight laminates and swaps the inboard diesels for twin high-thrust outboards mounted in wells. This variant is significantly lighter, which Sail Magazine noted improves light-air performance.
3. Seawind 1160 Resort: A specialized commercial variant designed for day-charter operations. It removes the standard cabins and saloon in favor of an open-plan seating arrangement capable of carrying up to 40 passengers.

The 1160 was eventually succeeded by the Seawind 1170, which shares the 1160’s DNA but incorporates more modern hull windows and integrated bowsprits.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Seawind 1160 is one of the most decorated catamarans in its class, notably winning the "Most Innovative" and "Best Multihull" awards from both Cruising World and Sail Magazine in 2007. Its cultural footprint is cemented by its popularity in the "Blue Water" cruising community; the model is a frequent sight in the ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers) and is often featured in long-distance voyaging blogs. While not as ubiquitous in European charter fleets as French-built catamarans, the 1160 has maintained a cult-like following in the Pacific and North American markets due to its balance of speed and livability.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a used Seawind 1160 with a focus on the following technical areas:

• Tri-fold Door Mechanism: The gas struts and hinges that operate the massive saloon door are under significant tension. Check for signs of fatigue or misalignment, as a failure here can make the boat difficult to secure.
• Window Seals: The large forward-facing saloon windows are a hallmark of the design but can develop leaks over time if the sealant degrades. Inspect the interior cabinetry below the windows for water staining.
• Saildrive Diaphragms: On the Deluxe models, the Yanmar saildrives require regular diaphragm replacements (typically every 7–10 years). Check the service logs to ensure this critical maintenance has been performed.
• Rudder Bearings: Some owners have reported play in the rudder bearings after extensive blue-water miles. During a haul-out, the rudders should be checked for lateral movement.
• Lite Model Outboard Wells: On the Lite variant, ensure the outboard lifting mechanisms move freely and that the wells are free of excessive marine growth, which can impede cooling water intake.

Community & Resources

The Seawind community is robust and highly organized. The Seawind Owners Association is the primary technical resource, offering a repository of DIY fixes and organized rallies, particularly in Australia and the US West Coast. For technical specifications and historical brochures, the Seawind Catamarans archives provide the most authoritative data on the various production runs between the Australian and Vietnamese factories.

The Verdict

The Seawind 1160 remains a premier choice for couples seeking a blue-water capable catamaran that is small enough to be handled by two people but large enough to host guests in comfort.

Pros:

• Innovative Layout: The tri-fold door creates a class-leading social space.
• Handling: Dual helms and a balanced sail plan offer a more engaging sailing experience than most competitors.
• Build Quality: Solid construction with a focus on structural integrity for ocean crossings.

Cons:

• Galley Down: The traditional 1160 layout features a galley-down configuration, which some modern cruisers find isolating from the saloon.
• Limited Storage: While excellent for coastal and mid-range cruising, storage space can be tight for long-term liveaboards compared to 40+ foot models.
• Price Retention: High demand on the used market keeps prices elevated, making it a difficult "bargain" find.