Capelan (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Capelan aligns perfectly with Beneteau's pivotal "fiberglass revolution" of the 1960s, a period when the company, under the guidance of André and François Bénéteau, embraced fiberglass construction to democratize recreational boating. The Capelan was a direct outcome of this manufacturing ethos, designed for efficient production while maintaining a robust build quality. André Bénéteau's design philosophy for the Capelan centered on delivering a genuine boat—one that was both sturdy and safe, suitable for new sailors to develop their skills confidently, as well as providing pleasure for seasoned mariners and their families.

The Beneteau Capelan featured a masthead sloop rig and a long keel, characteristics that contribute to directional stability and a forgiving motion on the water. Notably, the Capelan shared its hull with another Beneteau model, the Chenapan. The primary distinction lay in their configurations: the Chenapan boasted a larger cockpit and a slightly smaller cabin and rig, indicating a more day-sailing or open-boat focus, while the Capelan provided a more enclosed, albeit compact, interior.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its modest length of 14.76 feet, the Beneteau Capelan is categorized as a small recreational sailboat, making traditional performance ratios less applicable for assessment. Instead, its design emphasizes practical sailing characteristics. The Capelan's long keel configuration is indicative of good tracking abilities, providing a stable and predictable ride, particularly in moderate conditions. This design choice typically favors straight-line sailing over nimble maneuvering, making it forgiving for beginners and reliable for fishing or coastal cruising. Owners and enthusiasts often describe the Capelan as a sturdy and safe vessel, attributes crucial for a boat intended for diverse uses, from leisurely day trips to more utilitarian purposes like fishing. Her relatively heavy displacement for her size further contributes to a sense of solidity and a comfortable motion in a chop.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Beneteau Capelan was designed to function as a pocket cruiser, implying a basic but functional interior for shelter and minimal overnighting. While specific details on the Capelan's maximum headroom are not widely documented, it can be inferred that the cabin primarily served as a cuddy cabin. This typically entails a very basic arrangement, likely offering a V-berth or a similar sleeping arrangement for one or two individuals, providing protection from the elements. Storage would be limited to small lockers or shelves. The emphasis of such a boat would be on its usability on deck and its sailing characteristics, with the cabin providing just enough space for refuge or simple overnight stays rather than extended living.