Windship 60 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Windship 60 exhibits the characteristic "big boat" feel common to heavy-displacement cruisers of the late 1980s. With a significant displacement-to-length ratio, the hull is designed to "punch through" rather than skip over a head sea, offering a motion comfort that is highly valued during long-distance passages. While technical data varies by individual custom build, most Windship 60s were rigged as sloops or cutters, often featuring early hydraulic furling systems to manage the large sail areas.

Handling is generally described as deliberate and stable. The boat tracks exceptionally well due to its moderate-draft keel and substantial wetted surface area, though this does result in a larger turning radius and some sluggishness in light airs (under 8 knots). According to editorial archives from the era, the boat's stiffness is a point of pride; it carries its beam well aft, providing a stable platform even when pressed in a blow. Most owners report that the boat finds its "groove" at about 15 knots of true wind, where the hull speed and momentum overcome the initial inertia of the heavy laminate.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Windship 60 is where the semi-custom philosophy of William Waite truly shines. Unlike production boats from the same era, Windship allowed for significant variance in cabin configuration. The most common layout features a three-stateroom arrangement, centered around a massive raised-salon or a traditional deep-sole configuration that emphasizes the 16-foot beam.

High-grade Burmese teak or American cherry was the standard for joinery, often finished to a "superyacht" level that exceeded contemporary production standards. Because many of these vessels were built at Trident Shipworks, the integration of systems—such as recessed lighting, complex air conditioning ducting, and manifold plumbing—is often more reminiscent of a 100-foot vessel than a 60-foot one.

Sibling models are an important part of the Windship story. The hull was versatile enough that the builder produced the Windship 63, which shared much of the 60’s DNA but offered an extended transom for a larger lazarette and easier water access. Furthermore, the collaboration between Waite and renowned designer Ron Holland led to larger iterations, including a 72-foot variant and the massive 32-meter custom project delivered in 1991, all of which shared the brand's core identity of "luxury without compromise."

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Windship 60 must approach the vessel with an understanding of late-20th-century custom construction. While the hulls are notoriously overbuilt, several "gotchas" have emerged in owner circles over the decades:

• Balsa Core Integrity: Like many high-end yachts of the 80s, the decks were often balsa-cored. Buyers should pay close attention to moisture readings around stanchion bases, windlasses, and the large salon windows, where hardware bedding may have failed over time.
• Hydraulic Complexity: Many Windship 60s were fitted with complex hydraulic systems for furling and winches. These systems are reliable but expensive to overhaul. Inspect all lines for "sweating" and check the condition of the PTO (Power Take-Off) on the engine or generator.
• Tankage: The 60 carries significant fuel and water in aluminum tanks. Given the age of these vessels, any sign of pitting or "white powder" corrosion at the tank seams requires immediate attention, as replacement often involves significant joinery removal.
• Chainplates: Because the boat was built for serious offshore work, the chainplates are robust, but they are often buried behind fine cabinetry. A thermal imaging scan or localized disassembly is recommended to check for crevice corrosion.

The Verdict

The Windship 60 remains a premier choice for sailors who value "heft" and custom craftsmanship over the lightweight, high-volume designs of the modern era. It is a vessel that demands respect and a healthy maintenance budget but rewards its owner with an unparalleled sense of security in blue water.

Pros:

• Exquisite interior joinery and semi-custom finishes.
• Exceptional motion comfort in heavy seas.
• Built at Trident Shipworks, known for robust structural integrity.
• A "true" blue water cruiser capable of global circumnavigation.

Cons:

• High displacement leads to mediocre light-air performance.
• Complex systems require a knowledgeable owner or professional crew.
• Large size and heavy loads make manual sail handling difficult without functional hydraulics.
• Limited production numbers make finding specific spare parts (outside of off-the-shelf marine hardware) a challenge.