Windship 63 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Windship 63 are defined by its significant displacement and a hull form designed for "sea-kindliness" rather than outright surfing speeds. With a displacement that often exceeds 60,000 pounds depending on the specific custom fit-out, the boat possesses immense momentum, allowing it to power through head seas that would stall lighter modern yachts. The cutter rig is the standard configuration, providing a versatile sail plan that allows for easy reefing and balanced handling in high winds.

While specific technical ratios like Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) vary based on the owner's choice of mast height, the 63 typically sits in the "heavy cruiser" category. This translates to a stiff, stable ride with minimal heel in moderate breezes. According to historical accounts of the Windship series, the boat tracks exceptionally well due to its modified fin keel and large skeg-hung rudder, a design choice that prioritizes steering redundancy and directional stability. Owners often report that the 63 feels "locked in" on a reach, requiring little effort from the autopilot even in quartering seas. However, this mass comes with a trade-off in light air performance; the 63 requires a significant breeze (upwards of 10–12 knots) to truly wake up and overcome its wetted surface area.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Windship 63 is where the "Windship/Trident" collaboration truly excelled, offering a level of joinery and customization rarely seen in 60-foot production boats. Most hulls were configured with a center-cockpit layout, which allows for a magnificent full-beam master stateroom aft, often featuring a private companionway to the aft deck. The use of high-grade Burmese teak or cherry wood was standard, with hand-rubbed finishes that have proven remarkably durable over the decades.

Because these were semi-custom builds, variations between hulls are common. The sibling Windship 60 often featured a three-cabin layout, but the extended 63-foot hull allowed for more generous crew quarters forward or an expanded VIP suite. The main salon is typically cavernous, taking advantage of the boat's wide beam to offer a proper navigation station, a large U-shaped galley, and a dining area that can comfortably seat six to eight guests. Headroom is a standout feature, often exceeding 6'6" in the main salon, catering to the tall stature of the brand's founder, William Waite. The transition between the 60 and 63 models often involved the addition of a "sugar scoop" transom, which improved water access and docking convenience without altering the core interior volume.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Windship 63 should approach the vessel with an understanding of its complex, "big boat" systems. Given the age of the fleet, several technical areas require rigorous inspection:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Florida-built yachts of this era, the Windship 63 utilized a balsa-cored deck for stiffness. Any poorly bedded hardware (stanchions, cleats, or tracks) over the last 30 years can lead to moisture ingress and delamination. A professional moisture meter survey of the entire deck is mandatory.
• Hydraulic Systems: Many 63s were equipped with sophisticated hydraulic furling and winches to manage the large sail plan. These systems are prone to seal leaks and require specialized maintenance. Inspect the power pack and all lines for signs of fluid degradation or pressure loss.
• Chainplate Inspection: The heavy loads on a 63-foot cutter rig put immense stress on the stainless steel chainplates. Given the age of these vessels, pulling and inspecting a sample chainplate for crevice corrosion is highly recommended if they have not been replaced recently.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The 63 carries significant tankage, often integral or tucked deep into the bilge. Checking for corrosion on aluminum tanks or weeping in fiberglass tanks is essential, as replacement often requires significant interior dismantling.

Community & Resources

While there is no formal, active manufacturer's association following the 1991 closure, the Windship legacy is preserved through the broader community of Trident Shipworks owners. Technical discussions regarding the construction methods of William Waite and the engineering of the Windship hulls occasionally surface on high-end cruising forums where owners of similar vintage yachts (such as Little Harbor or Hylas) exchange maintenance advice. For technical specifications and historical context, the most reliable archives are often found through the naval architects associated with the brand’s larger projects, such as the office of Ron Holland Design.

The Verdict

The Windship 63 remains a "blue-blood" cruiser for the experienced sailor who prioritizes safety, luxury, and traditional aesthetics over modern lightweight construction.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: The collaboration with Trident Shipworks ensured a hull and interior capable of decades of service.
• Sea-Kindliness: A heavy-displacement hull that provides a comfortable, dry ride in offshore conditions.
• Custom Finishes: High-end woodwork and a spacious center-cockpit layout that rivals modern luxury yachts.

Cons:

• Complex Systems: Requires a higher maintenance budget for hydraulics, large-scale rigging, and aging onboard systems.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy hull is sluggish in light winds, often requiring the engine to maintain passage speeds.
• Deep Draft: Most configurations are not "gunkhole" friendly, limiting access to shallower cruising grounds like the Bahamas.