But the event was also marked by a return to the company's roots: 20 years after delivering the first Seawind 1160 from Newport to Annapolis, brand founder Richard Ward retraced exactly the same route aboard the new 1160XL, accompanied by his wife, Kerry Fahey.
And this time, conditions were anything but a leisurely cruise! With waves reaching 10 to 13 feet (3 to 4 m) and gusts exceeding 35 knots, the catamaran hit 19.5 knots while surfing. An impressive demonstration for this model measuring less than 40 feet, featuring redesigned hulls, a raised bridgedeck and reverse bows.
The passage also sets the stage for a milestone year in 2027, when Seawind will celebrate its 45th anniversary with four Owners' regattas organized in Turkey, Thailand, the United States and Australia.
Another date for the calendar: the American premiere of the Seawind 1270 at the Miami International Boat Show in February 2027.
