Windelo 50, an innovative layout designed for long distance cruising

Windelo's design is resolutely sporty © Windelo

While many cruising catamarans look the same, even when it comes to their layout, the Windelo 50 offers a completely different and rather original deck layout. This is the subject of the second part of our test.

Once aboard, you arrive in this modular cockpit, not really huge, but sufficient for most sailing situations. On each side of the cockpit, two steps provide access to the side gangway. Wide enough, these passages run alongside the wheelhouse and widen further towards the bow. Partly covered with solar panels, the gangways are not too slippery and allow easy manoeuvring. This is also where the daggerboards are located.

A very unique helm station

From the cockpit, you can also reach the main deck. A multi-part sliding door separates the outside from the inside, allowing the passageway to be opened almost completely. However, on our test model, the main door was not properly positioned, making access more complicated. This error is now being corrected. From here, we discover a space occupied by a large galley and an L-shaped dining area on starboard.

A L shaped galley and a L shaped couch are located on straboard
A L shaped galley and a L shaped couch are located on straboard

On the port side, there's a bench seat and navigation area, topped by a bunk that's perfect for keeping watch, or for a nap with a view. another good surprise is how bright this interior is. The Windelo's wheelhouse is literally surrounded by bay windows, most of which can be opened.

The wide TV screen can be use as a repetitor
The wide TV screen can be use as a repetitor

In addition, a very large sunroof provides plenty of light, while allowing you to keep an eye on the rigging. The galley itself is very well equipped, while the dining area can be converted into an additional berth.

Three or four cabins and hundreds of possibilities

Moving forward, another sliding door opens onto what is one of the main features of this deck layout. Indeed, Windelo has decided to locate the double helm station forward of the wheelhouse almost as a separate room, except that it is open. However, this space can be almost completely closed off with transparent awnings. This provides two helm stations and direct access to the mast step. All lines return to the cockpit via a central hatch, which in absolute terms means that most maneuvers can be performed from the forward cockpit. For longer trips, there's an L-shaped bench seat on each side, and finally another advantage of this configuration is optimal visibility.

The main cabin benefits from a corner porthole
The main cabin benefits from a corner porthole

Last area, the cabins are really welcoming. Once again, comfort has not been forgotten, especially in this yachting version. The port float is dedicated to the owner's cabin, with a double berth aft in a perpendicular position, a desk in the center and a beautiful head forward with separate shower. In addition to its spaciousness, this cabin is packed with storage space, and the large side windows provide maximum light, starting with the almost entirely glassed aft corner.

The main head is gigantic
The main head is gigantic

On the starboard side, the hull host two cabins, each with a double bed, a configuration that can be modified to suit the customer's needs. Not only is the boat available in three- or four-cabin versions, but you can also imagine two bunk beds in one of the cabins if you have children. These two cabins also share a bathroom, but here again, the deck layout is flexible.

Decoration is simple and modern, and again can be chosen according to the owner's wishes. The finish is of a high standard, and the level of equipment is average. Once again, it's up to you to personalize your equipment.

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