California 4.70 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Beneteau California 4.70 aligns with a pivotal period in Beneteau's history, as the company, under the leadership of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons André and François, fully embraced fiberglass construction in the 1960s. This strategic shift allowed Beneteau to develop more efficient production methods and lighter hulls, expanding their appeal beyond traditional fishing vessels to a growing leisure market. The California 4.70, launched in 1983, reflects this manufacturing ethos, being built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck. Designed by André Bénéteau, the naval architect behind several of the company's early recreational models, the California 4.70 was intended to be a simple, economical, and seaworthy boat. Its primary goal was to offer adaptability for various recreational water activities, including sailing, motoring, fishing, and general leisure. The design also allowed for a diesel inboard engine as an option, alongside the possibility of using an outboard motor, further emphasizing its versatility. No significant variations such as MkI or MkII versions appear to have been noted during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With an overall length of 15.42 feet and a displacement of just 882 pounds, the Beneteau California 4.70 is a very light and small vessel. Due to its compact size, traditional performance ratios like Sail Area to Displacement, Ballast to Displacement, and Displacement to Length are not typically applied or meaningful in evaluating its sailing characteristics, as they are primarily relevant for larger cruising or racing yachts. Instead, its design emphasizes simplicity and ease of handling. The boat features a fractional sloop rig and a centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft between 1.48 feet and 4.76 feet. This centerboard design contributes to its versatility, enabling access to shallow waters while providing lateral resistance for sailing performance when lowered. Descriptions from the builder suggest the California line, including the 4.70, is characterized by its solid and simple design, offering good seaworthiness for coastal conditions. It is designed to be responsive and adaptable for various uses on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its small size, the Beneteau California 4.70 is primarily a daysailer or pocket cruiser with extremely limited interior accommodations. The interior layout would be very basic, likely consisting of little more than a cuddy cabin providing minimal shelter or storage rather than comfortable living space. Details on maximum headroom are not available, which further supports the expectation of a very confined interior, suitable perhaps for storing gear or offering a brief escape from the elements. As a small, trailerable boat, the focus of its design is on deck space for activities like fishing or casual sailing, and ease of transport, rather than extensive below-deck amenities.