Biniou Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Costantini Biniou commenced in 1967 and continued for a decade, concluding in 1977. The yacht's design is attributed to Gilles Costantini, a prominent naval architect whose work, alongside his family's shipyard, Chantier Naval Costantini, marked a significant era in French boat building. The Costantini shipyard, founded by Louis Costantini in 1932 and later led by his sons Gilles and Marc, was known for its pragmatic adoption of new materials, pioneering the use of plywood, aluminum, and early "plastic composite materials" (fiberglass) in yacht construction. This forward-thinking approach contributed to their reputation for building efficient and capable vessels. The Biniou itself featured a hull and deck constructed from a fiberglass and wood composite, reflecting the shipyard's versatile material expertise.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 23 feet (22.97 ft) and a waterline length of 18.04 feet, the Biniou was designed to be a nimble and manageable vessel. Its calculated hull speed is approximately 5.69 knots. Rigged as a masthead sloop, it carries a reported sail area of 271 square feet, indicating a sail plan suitable for a small cruiser. The Biniou features a bulb keel and a single rudder, which typically contributes to good directional stability and reasonable upwind performance for a boat of its type. While specific anecdotal handling characteristics are not widely detailed, its design as a small cruiser suggests a focus on ease of handling and a comfortable motion rather than extreme racing performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the Costantini Biniou was designed with an emphasis on maximizing interior space. It is noted for being more spacious than many comparable sailboats, suggesting a design philosophy that prioritized liveability within a compact footprint. While specific interior layouts can vary, a vessel of the Biniou's size and cruising designation would typically feature a V-berth forward, a compact salon area, and a basic galley for essential cooking. A small enclosed head would also commonly be found. The builder's general commitment to quality and efficient design suggests that the interior would have been functional and practical, often utilizing the era's common construction materials such as wood trim and fiberglass liners.