When it came time to move from our Alubat Cigale 16 Aluminum sloop of 10 years to a new boat we decided to downsize and get a boat with a bit nicer living space, but one that could still sail well. The Alubat was a performance cruiser in every aspect so we've been spoiled by a boat that sailed really well in all conditions.
As our sailing desires had changed from ocean voyages to a more coastal and ICW experiences we decided to limit our search to catamarans that were 38 to 44 feet and a budget of 400K.
Initially we looked at older cats that looked to be in shape that we could refit. After looking at dozens of cats and surveying a few we discovered the older cats are selling at a premium and far more than would allow a refit an stay in the budget.
Alas we thought a cat was not for us and were looking for alternatives. We went to all the boat shows on the east coast of america and were hugely disappointed with the offerings. That is until we went to the Annapolis boat show in the fall of 2018. We saw the Seawind 1160 for the first time in person.
We had looked at the seawind 1160 online and in pictures and videos. It had not impressed us and we had concerns with the helm stations positions and the outboard motor approach. But in person it was a different story.
After spending two days just hanging out on the Seawind 1160 that was at the show we were almost sold. A charter of a 1160 in the Abacos confirmed that this was a the right one for us.
We were impressed with the fit and finish in such a low cost boat. On the charter we got a glimpse of what the boat could do in light and moderate breeze and were impressed.
We were convinced enough to start the boat ordering process.