Seawind 1190 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The defining characteristic of the Seawind 1190 Sport is the replacement of fixed low-aspect-ratio (LAR) keels with high-efficiency daggerboards. These boards allow the boat to point significantly higher than the standard 1160, often achieving windward angles comparable to performance monohulls. By retracting the boards when sailing downwind, drag is minimized, and the draft is reduced to just 2 feet 1 inch, allowing the vessel to venture into shallow anchorages inaccessible to fixed-keel cats.

Handling is further enhanced by the inclusion of retractable rudders, which provide exceptional tactile feedback at the twin helm stations. According to an editorial review by Sail Magazine, the boat exhibits a "sporty feel" with a high-aspect square-top mainsail that provides substantial drive in light air. The use of carbon fiber in the forestay chainplate, targa beam, and various structural reinforcements ensures a stiff, responsive platform. While the Seawind 1160 Deluxe was known for its steady, predictable motion, the 1190 Sport is more reactive, rewarding active sail trimming and precise steering.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Seawind 1190 Sport retains the clever "tri-fold" door system that pioneered the indoor-outdoor living concept in the catamaran market. This design allows the cockpit and saloon to merge into a single level, creating a massive social space that belies the boat's 38-foot length. To save weight, the interior utilizes lightweight timber laminates and minimalist finishes rather than the heavy solid-wood joinery found in the 1160 Deluxe.

The boat is typically configured in a three-cabin owner’s layout, where the entire starboard hull is dedicated to a master suite featuring a queen-sized berth and a large head forward. The port hull contains two guest cabins and a shared head. This model shares its "Lite" philosophy with the Seawind 1160 Lite, often opting for twin 20hp or 25hp outboard engines mounted in wells rather than heavy diesel saildrives. This choice not only reduces displacement by approximately 600kg but also eliminates the drag of underwater propellers when under sail. For those seeking more traditional propulsion, some 1190 variants have been commissioned with Yanmar diesel engines, though these are less common in the "Sport" designation.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Seawind 1190 Sport gained significant international attention after being named the "Best Multihull" in several prestigious awards. Cruising World highlighted the vessel as a standout for its balance of performance and livability during their Boat of the Year evaluations. The model has also become a favorite among high-latitude and tropical cruisers alike, often featured in technical sailing vlogs and long-distance cruising journals for its ability to maintain high average speeds on passage, which reduces exposure to weather windows.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the specific performance components that distinguish the 1190 from the 1160:

• Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the daggerboard cases for any signs of stress cracking or impact damage. Ensure the lifting and lowering mechanisms operate smoothly without excessive play, which can indicate worn sacrificial pads.
• Outboard Tilt Mechanisms: If equipped with outboards, the tilting systems used to raise the engines out of the water must be inspected for corrosion or mechanical fatigue. The gaskets and "boots" that seal the wells when the engines are down are also high-wear items.
• Rigging Tension: Due to the higher loads generated by the square-top main and performance rig, the standing rigging and chainplates require rigorous inspection. Owners on forums like CruisersForum have noted that maintaining proper shroud tension is critical to prevent mast pumping in choppy seas.
• Carbon Reinforcements: While carbon fiber adds strength, it is essential to check for any delamination or hairline cracks around the targa beam and forestay attachment points, especially on boats that have been campaigned in club racing.

Community & Resources

The Seawind community is robust and highly organized. The Seawind Owners Association provides a dedicated platform for technical exchange, covering everything from sail-trimming tips to outboard maintenance. Additionally, Seawind frequently hosts "Rallies" in locations such as the Whitsunday Islands and the Chesapeake Bay, where 1190 owners can share performance data and cruising experiences.

The Verdict

The Seawind 1190 Sport is a "sailor’s catamaran" that successfully avoids the sluggishness often associated with 40-foot cruising multihulls. It is an ideal choice for the experienced cruiser who wants to maintain a high level of engagement with the boat's performance.

Pros:

• Exceptional windward performance thanks to daggerboards and a square-top main.
• Industry-leading visibility from twin helm stations.
• Innovative tri-fold doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor living area.
• Shallow draft capability with boards and rudders raised.

Cons:

• Higher complexity of daggerboard management compared to fixed keels.
• Minimalist interior may feel less "luxurious" than some competitors.
• Higher price point on the used market due to carbon construction and performance hardware.