Copain (Amel) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Amel Copain officially commenced in 1968 and continued through 1970, although some sources suggest an earlier origin in 1962. During this period, Henri Amel's nascent shipyard, Chantiers Amel, founded in La Rochelle in 1965, was firmly establishing its manufacturing ethos. Amel distinguished itself by embracing fiberglass (GRP) construction early on, prioritizing durability and suitability for ocean voyaging—a philosophy extended even to its smallest models like the Copain. Henri Amel's core vision centered on building yachts that were robust, comfortable, and easy for owners to manage, emphasizing safety and self-sufficiency.

The Copain was offered in two primary configurations to suit various sailing preferences: a fin keel version and a weighted centerboard ("dériveur lesté") version. The centerboard model provided remarkable flexibility with a minimum draft of 1.84 feet, ideal for exploring shallow anchorages, which could be extended to a maximum draft of 3.35 feet for improved upwind performance. A fixed keel version was also available with a draft of 0.90 meters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its modest length overall of 17.22 feet, the Amel Copain is inherently nimble and responsive. Designed as a cruising sailboat, it provides a stable and predictable motion for its size. Owners have anecdotally described the boat as "very easy" to handle, indicating a forgiving nature that would appeal to less experienced sailors or those seeking a straightforward sailing experience. The choice between the fin keel and centerboard versions allowed owners to optimize for either enhanced performance or the ability to access shallower waters, making the Copain versatile for coastal exploration.

Accommodations and Layout

Due to its compact dimensions, the Amel Copain's interior accommodations are necessarily basic, reflecting its role as a mini-cruiser suitable for day sailing or short overnight trips rather than extended liveaboard cruising. While specific detailed layouts are not widely documented, a vessel of this size typically features an open-plan cabin. This would likely include a V-berth forward for sleeping, offering minimal headroom, and rudimentary provisions for a portable head and very basic galley facilities such as a small counter or storage space for provisions. The emphasis on the interior would have been on maximizing usable space and providing essential shelter, consistent with the functional and robust design principles of Amel at the time.