Seawind stars on show

by Sandman PR on 15 Jan 2009 Seawind Catamarans will exhibit two models at this month’s Melbourne International Boat & Lifestyle Show, both of which have been recognised and awarded for their innovative design and features.

Proudly made in Australia, in state-of-the-art, newly refurbished premises in Wollongong, Seawind recently took out the award for NSW Exporter of the Year for the small to medium manufacturer category.

The Seawind 1160 is the marque’s 38’ flagship production boat and winner of the ‘Most Innovative Sailboat’ and ‘Best Cruising Multihull’ in the USA in 2007, which is huge praise for an Australian-made boat.

The superb combined saloon and cockpit of the 1160 creates a huge living space under the hardtop where a dozen or more guests can enjoy the 360-degree visibility while the skipper easily controls the boat from the dual helm. As one of the vessel’s key features, it has been advanced in the new model with the added security of a tri-folding door that disappears into the Targa, closing the saloon off for warmth and comfort.

The Seawind 1160 also features superior accommodation with two forward queen-sized beds with the option for a three or four cabin layout. For the first time, Seawind is now also offering an ‘island bed’ layout for one of the queen-sized beds for additional nocturnal comfort and ease of access.

The vessel boasts a self-tacking jib system, making the boat super easy to sail for the shorthanded plus single line reefing, Targa traveller and a walk-through transom with large steps for comfortable, easy boarding. The new methods of construction, as engineered by High Modulus of New Zealand, means the design is stronger yet lighter and will be built quicker and more economically.

According to Seawind Catamarans marketing and sales manager Brent Vaughan, the Seawind 1160 suits several different markets 'as it’s a very versatile boat'.

'It’s large indoor/outdoor area appeals to people looking for a boat they can entertain on or head out on weekends with friends, through to liveaboard sailing and bluewater cruising,' Mr Vaughan said.

'One owner recently took his 1160 from Sydney to San Francisco, taking around six months to complete the trip.

'It’s also a great charter boat… we have just confirmed the sale of a boat to the British Virgin Islands, the premier cruising destination in the Caribbean… that’s a real coup for us.'

The second boat on show is a 33’ Seawind 1000, whose owner recently completed the circumnavigation of Australia – a 1500 nautical mile journey. The owner, Russell Wallace will be on hand for the duration of the show to field questions and take people through his impressive vessel, which has been optimised for offshore cruising.

'As a production boat, the Seawind 1000 is the most successful sailing boat built in Australia,' Mr Vaughan said.

'It’s certainly covered some ocean and well and truly proven itself!'


Further information:
Boating Industry Association of Victoria – (03) 8696 5600 or visit: www.mibls.com.au