The Windelo 50 is the latest innovation from Windelo, a new shipyard focused on creating sustainable, performance-oriented catamarans. Built with eco-friendly materials and designed for both comfort and speed, the Windelo 50 aims to redefine modern catamaran sailing.
Sailing Experience
The Windelo 50 offers a different sailing experience, particularly when sailing upwind. The boat’s design centers around a forward cockpit, providing a social and connected environment. With the twin wheels positioned centrally, the sailing experience is comfortable and stable, even in choppy seas. The central positioning reduces movement, making for a smoother ride.
While sailing beam-reaching with the Code Zero, the Windelo 50 showcases its performance capabilities, averaging speeds of 11-12 knots and reaching up to 14 knots in 16 knots of wind. The setup allows for easy handling of the sails without leaving the cockpit, adding to the boat's user-friendly nature.
Sustainable Design
Windelo has made significant strides in using sustainable materials in the construction of the 50. The boat is made from basalt fiber, a material derived from volcanic rock, which is 50% lighter than traditional glass fiber and recyclable. The foam core is made from recycled plastic bottles (PET), emphasizing the shipyard’s commitment to sustainability.
The boat is equipped with electric Bellmarine engines, which are quiet and efficient. These engines also serve as hydro-generators, putting energy back into the batteries while sailing. The Windelo 50 can run four hours at six knots on battery power alone, with a diesel generator as a range extender for longer passages.
Exterior Features
The Windelo 50 boasts an extensive use of solar panels, with up to 3.5 kilowatts of flexible solar panels on the coach roof. This setup ensures that the boat’s DC systems can be powered sustainably, capturing energy from the sun.
The design includes a large, extendable bathing platform that doubles as davits for lowering the dinghy. This platform significantly extends the cockpit area, creating a seamless inside-outside living space. The forward cockpit design allows for excellent social interaction, making it a unique feature among catamarans.
Interior Comfort
The interior of the Windelo 50 is designed to be open, modern, and filled with natural light. The saloon features large sliding windows, allowing for excellent ventilation and a connection to the outdoors. The galley is integrated into the saloon, promoting social interaction and ease of use while sailing.
The owner’s hull features a transverse queen-sized bed with a beautiful corner window, providing panoramic views. The layout can be customized to include an office space or additional bunks, depending on the owner's needs. The heads and shower areas are spacious and built around the central daggerboard casing.
The guest cabins are equally comfortable, with options for a conventional double or a transverse bunk layout. Each cabin includes plenty of storage and large windows for natural light.
Practicality and Performance
The Windelo 50 is built for long-term cruising with a payload capacity of up to 16 tons. The boat’s design includes ample storage throughout, from the large sail locker to various interior compartments. The central positioning of fuel tanks and storage near the mast base enhances weight distribution and performance.
The boat features a bowsprit and self-tacking jib, allowing for easy handling and versatility in different wind conditions. The electric engines provide quiet and efficient motoring, with the ability to regenerate power while sailing.
Conclusion
The Windelo 50 stands out as a sustainable, performance-oriented catamaran with a modern design and comfortable living spaces. Its innovative use of eco-friendly materials, combined with thoughtful design features, make it an excellent choice for long-term cruisers seeking both performance and sustainability. With its unique layout and impressive sailing capabilities, the Windelo 50 is set to make a significant impact in the world of catamarans.
