Seawind 1170, a compact catamaran capable of crossing oceans in comfort

The Seawind 1170 is an elegant cruising catamaran

From the beginning, the ambition of Richard Ward, creator of the Seawind 1170, was to design a compact catamaran that was easy to handle, but also comfortable for cruising. The result is a project full of good ideas, as we discover in this first part.

The man behind Seawind is Richard Ward, an accomplished sailor and ocean racer who decided one day - 40 years ago - to build his own catamaran, just off the beach in Australia. More than 40 years later, Seawind has become a recognized brand worldwide, and even a group, with the acquisition in 2010 of the Corsair Marine brand. The company employs over 550 people and is present on virtually every continent. The Seawind range now includes no fewer than eight models, from 38 to 52 feet.

A compact catamaran, but capable of long crossings

The 1170 is a 39-foot unit, a relatively small size in the world of cruising catamarans. However, this catamaran benefits from a very interesting use of space. Built in a new factory in Izmir, Turkey, the Seawind is presented by the shipyard as a compact ocean capable catamaran.

The Seawind 1170's lines are modern and dynamic
The Seawind 1170's lines are modern and dynamic

Aesthetically, the 1170 benefits from a significant styling evolution compared to the 1190 and 1260, with more elongated lines - very similar to those of the 1370. The interior space has also been improved. The long hull portholes are still there, but the hull bulwarks are completely vertical, and keep virtually the same height from stern to bow. The wheelhouse is much larger than on previous models, yet remains highly aerodynamic. The rigid bimini continues to the rear of the skirts, offering a perfect protection from the sun and/or the elements. The slender inverted bows give the catamaran style, while the forward beam supports two furlers and a retractable carbon bowsprit. Despite its generous volume, the nacelle, which rises more than 2 feets above the water, appears very slender, almost aerial.

Access to the Seawind 1170 mast step is very easy
Access to the Seawind 1170 mast step is very easy

These beautiful lines give a modern look to the 1170 and this clever design also serves to enhance its functionality. From the cockpit, it's easy to reach the frontdeck thanks to the wide gangways. This forward deck is mainly rigid and includes several lockers for fenders, sails or safety equipment. The windlass is nicely concealed and, to enjoy the show, there are two seats on the bow of each hull.

High bows keep you dry
High bows keep you dry

Successful aesthetics without sacrificing functionality

The same idea of functionality is found in the living area, with a cockpit that's not huge - but we're only on a 39-footer. However, its design is clever. The aft section features a large bench seat, while on each side of the cockpit, access to the small skirts is blocked by lifeline Located on either side of the cockpit, the two helm stations benefit from a good visibility while being sheltered from the elements. What's more, the helmsman is not isolated from the rest of the crew.

The cockpit is sheltered and the berth attaches to the ceiling to create a large living space.
The cockpit is sheltered and the berth attaches to the ceiling to create a large living space.

Thanks to an opening window, electronic equipment remains well protected, yet easily accessible to the helmsman. Finally, a bench seat allows the skipper to settle in comfortably for long crossing. This cockpit is also completely covered by the rigid bimini. As well as keeping the crew out of the elements, this allows the integration of racks for fishing rods or paddle boards. Finally, two roof windows allow the skipper to keep an eye on the rigging

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