Winga 862 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Winga 862 is a moderate-to-heavy displacement vessel that prioritizes stability and sea-kindliness over raw speed. Its underwater profile features a longish fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that provides excellent directional stability when tracking through a seaway. In her design, Eliasson balanced the hull to handle the weight of a larger-than-average diesel engine, typically the Volvo Penta MD series, which is central to the motorsailer experience.

Under sail, the 862 performs best in a stiff breeze. Due to its significant wetted surface area and relatively conservative sail plan, it can feel sluggish in light winds (under 10 knots). However, as the wind increases, the boat’s high ballast ratio helps it stand up to its canvas, offering a secure, upright sailing experience that is particularly comforting for families or less experienced crews. The helm is generally described as heavy but predictable. According to technical archives from the Winga Owners Club (Wingaklubben), the boat was designed to be easily handled by a couple, with most lines led to the cockpit, though the presence of the fixed windscreen and optional hardtop requires some agility when moving forward on deck.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Winga 862 is a masterclass in space optimization for a 28-foot hull. Its defining feature is the aft-cabin layout, which is physically separated from the main saloon by the central cockpit. This configuration provides a level of privacy usually reserved for much larger yachts, making it an ideal choice for families with children or owners who frequently host guests. The aft cabin typically contains two berths, while the main forward cabin features a V-berth and a convertible settee in the saloon.

The "862" designation specifically denoted a more luxurious interior finish compared to its predecessor, the 860. This included increased use of teak joinery, improved galley facilities, and more sophisticated upholstery. The galley is generally located in the deckhouse or just forward of it, allowing the cook to remain part of the social activity in the cockpit. Headroom is surprisingly generous, often exceeding six feet in the main saloon, a feat achieved by the boat's high freeboard.

The Winga 862 exists alongside two very close siblings. The Winga 860 was the original iteration, featuring a slightly simpler deck layout and interior. More significantly, the Winga 87 was built on the exact same hull but designed as a "sailing version." The Winga 87 replaced the central cockpit and wheelhouse with a traditional aft-cockpit and a larger masthead rig, appealing to sailors who wanted the Eliasson hull's volume but preferred more conventional sailing aesthetics.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Winga 862 should focus their inspections on the unique technical demands of a motorsailer of this vintage.

1. Volvo Penta S-Drive and Engine: Most 862s were fitted with Volvo Penta engines and S-drive transmissions. The rubber diaphragm seal on the S-drive has a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval (typically seven years). If there is no record of replacement, this should be a priority. Furthermore, check the engine's heat exchanger for scaling, as these boats are often run under power for long durations.
2. Deck Core and Pilothouse Seals: The transition between the fiberglass deck and the fixed windscreen or pilothouse structures can develop leaks over decades. Inspect the interior headliner for water stains around the window frames.
3. Rudder Bearing Wear: The skeg-hung rudder is robust, but the bushings can wear, leading to vibration under power or a "clunking" sensation at the helm.
4. Osmotic Blistering: While Winga hulls are generally thick and well-layed, Swedish hulls from the early 80s are not immune to osmosis. A moisture meter test on the hull below the waterline is recommended during any pre-purchase survey.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Winga Owners Club (Wingaklubben), based in Sweden. This association maintains a repository of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and a member forum that is invaluable for sourcing specific spare parts or advice on hull-specific repairs. While much of their documentation is in Swedish, the community is notoriously helpful to international owners of these classic Scandinavian cruisers.

The Verdict

The Winga 862 is a stout, sensible, and surprisingly spacious coastal cruiser that excels in temperate climates where protection from the elements is a priority. It is not a racing yacht, nor is it a pure powerboat, but it occupies the middle ground with a level of Swedish craftsmanship that has allowed many hulls to survive in excellent condition today.

Pros

• Exceptional Privacy: The separate aft cabin is a rare luxury on a boat under 30 feet.
• Weather Protection: The substantial wheelhouse allows for comfortable cruising in rain or cold.
• Build Quality: High-quality Scandinavian fiberglass work and interior joinery.
• Stability: A heavy, predictable hull that handles rough coastal chop with ease.

Cons

• Light Wind Performance: Requires the engine to maintain speed when the breeze drops below 10 knots.
• Cockpit Separation: The central cockpit divides the living spaces, which can be inconvenient in heavy weather.
• Maintenance Access: Some engine components can be difficult to reach depending on the specific cabinetry layout.