10/02/2026
19.5 KNOTS ABOARD THE NEW SEAWIND 1160XL
A demanding short passage from Newport to Block Island puts Seawind’s newest cruising catamaran to the test.
Following the Newport International Boat Show, **Richard Ward, Founder and CEO of Seawind Catamarans**, departed Newport aboard the new **Seawind 1160XL** for a 30-nautical-mile passage to Block Island.
Joining Richard and Kerry for the trip were renowned sailor and marine journalist **Herb McCormick** and **Lydia Mullan, Managing Editor of SAIL magazine.
What began as a fresh sail quickly developed into a serious real-world test of Seawind’s newest cruising catamaran.
With a large low-pressure system building off the Atlantic Coast, northeasterly winds increased from 15–20 knots to approximately **30 knots, with gusts reaching 38 knots**. Seas built to an estimated **3–4 metres (10–13 feet)**.
With a single reef in the mainsail and full jib, the 1160XL settled into a broad reach toward Block Island, regularly sailing between **8 and 12 knots**.
The real excitement came as the boat approached the island.
Bearing away around the northern end of Block Island put the 1160XL nearly dead downwind in large following seas. Combined with the outgoing Long Island Sound tide, the conditions produced steep waves and some serious surfing.
The result?
19.5 KNOTS
Richard reports that the 1160XL powered confidently down the waves, with its increased-volume reverse bows refusing to bury despite the large following seas and impressive speeds.
“What a test and what a boat. For me, this experience absolutely justified the big design effort to further develop the already successful earlier SW1160.”
— Richard Ward, Founder & CEO, Seawind Catamarans
For a cruising catamaran measuring under 40 feet, it was an impressive demonstration of what the new 1160XL was designed to deliver: **offshore capability, confidence in demanding conditions, genuine sailing performance, and the comfort and practicality required for extended cruising.**
After an exhilarating passage, the crew entered Block Island Harbor, dropped anchor, and celebrated appropriately—with cheese, crackers, and a few well-earned glasses of red w**e.
THE SEAWIND 1160XL
The 1160XL builds upon one of Seawind’s most successful designs, incorporating increased hull volume, reverse bows, additional waterline length, and refinements intended to improve both cruising capability and sailing performance.
And sometimes the best way to understand a new design isn’t through a specification sheet.
It’s to take it offshore and let the boat speak for itself.
Interested in learning more about the **Seawind 1160XL**, current availability, pricing, or arranging a showing? Contact **Windcraft Multihulls**, your Seawind Catamarans dealer for the Gulf States.
