Forban Mk II (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Forban Mk II in 1975 coincided with a pivotal era for Beneteau. Having transitioned from building sturdy wooden fishing vessels to embracing fiberglass construction in the 1960s, the company, under the leadership of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons André and François, was actively expanding its offerings in the recreational sailboat market. Beneteau Builder Article The Forban Mk II emerged as part of this fiberglass revolution, embodying Beneteau's evolving ethos of producing well-built, accessible yachts for a growing leisure market. Beneteau Builder Article

André Bénéteau, the designer of the Forban Mk II, was instrumental in shaping the early generation of Beneteau cruising sailboats. Beneteau Builder Article His design philosophy for smaller boats often focused on creating vessels that were easy to handle, stable, and robust, a philosophy evident in the Forban Mk II. The "Mk II" designation itself suggests an evolution from an earlier Mark I version, indicating refinements and improvements in its design or production over time.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its modest length overall of just under 20 feet (19.68 ft) and a waterline length of 16.4 feet, the Beneteau Forban Mk II is known for its capable sailing performance. With a reported sail area of 248 square feet, a displacement of 2205 pounds, and a ballast of 838 pounds, it is considered a moderate-weight sailboat that offers a surprisingly high level of performance for its size. The boat is generally described as stable and stiff, capable of standing up to a decent breeze, qualities often attributed to a good ballast-to-displacement ratio for a boat of this type. Anecdotal accounts and similar designs by André Bénéteau suggest it is easy to steer, powerful, and stable, providing robustness and comfort even in moderate sea states. Its fin keel hull type contributes to its sailing efficiency and tracking.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact dimensions, the interior of the Beneteau Forban Mk II is designed for efficiency and practicality, typical of small coastal cruisers from its era. Information suggests a layout that includes a double cabin, which would most likely manifest as a V-berth in the bow, providing sleeping space for two. A basic, equipped galley would also be part of the standard arrangement, offering essential amenities for preparing simple meals. While maximum headroom details are not explicitly stated in the specifications, it would be limited, as is common for sailboats of this length. Owners often find the boat's interior, while potentially outdated in terms of aesthetics due to its age, to be solid and functional, albeit compact.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Forban Mk II frequently praise its solid construction and enduring quality, noting that many examples have been well-preserved over the years with original exteriors. The boat is often considered a good option for those seeking a first sailboat, appreciating its robust nature and the relatively accessible price point of used models. While the hull itself is typically found to be solid, some owners have noted that the rigging may be somewhat outdated, and interior elements like the ceiling could require updating or maintenance after several decades of use. The general consensus points to a reliable and seaworthy small vessel that, with appropriate care, continues to provide enjoyable sailing experiences.