Music: Internal Validation – Sarah, the Illstrumentalist”
Of all of 2025’s Top 10 entries, Windelo led the way in consistently keeping environmental sustainability at the top of the priority list. As with last year’s 50, the new 54 uses basalt fiber (fabricated from volcanic rock) in the build, rather than traditional fiberglass and recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate, commonly used to make plastic bottles) for a core material. The 54’s power comes from two 20kW shaft-driven Bellmarine electric motors and an 18kW diesel genset, with a massive solar farm to help support them. “Windelo is committed to pushing the envelope with advanced electric propulsion systems,” says Adam. “The 54 is a culmination of their developments, delivering a practical solution for a boat that also performs well under sail.” The new flagship looks a bit sleeker with a low profile, sharp entries on the bows, and decent bridge deck clearance. These narrow hulls sliced through the water at 62% wind speed as we sailed 9.15 knots in 16.3 knots of true wind on a beam reach. Even when we hardened up to 40 degrees, we still maintained 5.1 knots in 10.3 knots true, showing that the Windelo is a capable, all-direction sailor. Still highlighted is the enclosed forward cockpit and the innovative drop-down transom that doubles as a davit system for the dinghy. Stay tuned for the full review of this boat in the June/July issue of SAIL.
For more of SAIL’s Top 10 Best Boats of 2025, click here.
