Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Windward 850 are defined by its moderate displacement and a relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio, which provides a sense of security in heavy air. Utilizing a masthead sloop rig, the boat is designed to be powered up by a large genoa, making it efficient in the light-to-moderate thermal breezes common in summer, yet it remains remarkably composed when the "Qualicum" winds or autumn squalls arrive.
While specific technical ratios like a Displacement/Length ratio in the mid-200s suggest a cruiser rather than a racer, the John Simpson hull design features a fine entry that allows the 850 to point well into the wind. Handling is described by regional sailors as predictable, with a balanced helm that resists rounding up in gusts. Its tracking is aided by a traditional fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder—a configuration favored by Simpson for its protection against debris and its steadying effect when running downwind in a following sea. Unlike lighter, modern fin-keel boats that can feel skittish, the Windward 850 "settles" into its groove, providing a stable platform for shorthanded cruising.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel under 28 feet, the Windward 850 offers an interior that feels surprisingly expansive, largely due to its 9' 6" beam and generous freeboard. The layout is a classic "all-purpose" configuration: a forward V-berth with an overhead hatch for ventilation, followed by an enclosed head to port and a hanging locker to starboard. The main salon typically features a dinette that can be converted into a double berth, complemented by a straight settee on the opposite side.
The use of warm hardwoods, predominantly teak, was a hallmark of the Windward Marine factory, contrasting with the starker "all-fiberglass" liners found in some contemporary mass-production boats. The galley is positioned aft for easy access to the cockpit and typically includes a deep sink and an icebox (often converted to refrigeration by modern owners). One of the most significant variations found among the sibling models is the engine configuration; while many were fitted with the reliable Yanmar YSM or 2GM diesel series, some earlier hulls were delivered with gasoline engines or even high-thrust outboards. The 850 also shares design DNA with the Windward 24, acting as its "big sister," and bears a striking resemblance to the Simpson 28, a custom-build design by the same architect that utilized similar hull lines but often featured different deck moldings.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Windward 850 should approach the vessel with the understanding that these boats are now approaching their fifth decade. While the hulls are generally considered "overbuilt" in the tradition of 1970s fiberglass construction, specific areas require technical scrutiny:
- Deck Core Integrity: Like many Canadian boats of this era, the Windward 850 uses a balsa or plywood sandwich construction for the decks. Moisture ingress around the stanchion bases, chainplates, or the mast step is a common "gotcha" that can lead to delamination and soft spots.
- Chainplate Attachments: Inspect the bulkheads where the chainplates are through-bolted. Any signs of water staining or wood rot in the structural bulkheads can compromise the rig’s tension and safety.
- Window Seals: The large salon windows are prone to leaking over time, which can damage the teak interior cabinetry. Many owners choose to replace the original frames with modern aluminum or polycarbonate units.
- Propeller Shaft Alignment: Given the age of the original engine mounts, vibration can lead to wear in the cutlass bearing and stuffing box. A thorough inspection of the engine beds is recommended.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for Windward 850 owners is the Pacific Northwest sailing community. While there is no longer a formal manufacturer-backed association, the model is a frequent subject of technical discussion within regional groups such as the BC Sailing Association and local yacht clubs in Vancouver and Victoria. Documentation and original specifications are often preserved through the legacy of John Simpson’s design archives, which continue to be referenced by marine surveyors in British Columbia.
The Verdict
The Windward 850 is a stout, honest cruiser that punches above its weight class in terms of sea-kindliness and interior comfort. It is an ideal choice for a couple or small family looking for a manageable vessel capable of extended coastal exploration.
Pros:
- Exceptional Stability: High ballast ratio makes it a safe, stiff performer in heavy air.
- Interior Volume: Feels much larger than its 27' 11" length would suggest.
- Build Quality: Solid fiberglass hull construction designed for the rugged BC coast.
Cons:
- Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be wary of deck delamination and aging systems.
- Light Air Performance: Can be sluggish in very light winds without a large headsail.
- Niche Market: Primarily found in the Pacific Northwest, making parts or specific model knowledge harder to find elsewhere.
