Bes 1/2 Ton Information, Review, Specs

Gouteron (Chantier), the builder, was a French shipyard known for its innovative approach to boat construction, having pioneered techniques in plywood and later successfully transitioning to fiberglass. Their ethos revolved around creating practical, enjoyable, and accessible sailing craft. While the builder is no longer active, their legacy, including vessels like the Bes 1/2 Ton, continues to be appreciated for its durable construction and thoughtful design.

History and Design

The genesis of the Bes 1/2 Ton is rooted in a significant sailing achievement: it is based on the 'Bes', the winning prototype of the 1972 International Half Ton Cup, sailed by Paul Elvstrøm himself. This prestigious victory led to the design being put into production, initially by Gouteron (Chantier) starting in 1972. The design work was attributed to the collaborative efforts of Paul Elvstrøm and Jan Kjærulff, maritime architects who influenced numerous sailing designs of the era.

During this period, Gouteron (Chantier) was making a name for itself in fiberglass construction, having evolved from its earlier reliance on plywood. This transition allowed the shipyard to produce durable and well-regarded small to moderate-sized boats. The Bes 1/2 Ton, with its fiberglass hull and deck, reflects Gouteron's commitment to robust construction. The hull design proved versatile, leading to other derived models with more conventional deck arrangements, including the Elvstrom 32, Blue Dane 32, and Blue Leth 32, which shared the same fundamental hull lines. The Elvstrom 32, for instance, also designed by Elvstrøm & Kjærulff, began production in 1973.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bes 1/2 Ton, with a length overall of 31.5 feet and a waterline length of 24.0 feet, was designed to strike a balance between speed and stability. Her moderate displacement of 6,800 lbs, combined with a significant ballast of 3,130 lbs, results in a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.46. This high ratio suggests a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze and maintaining its sail plan effectively. The displacement-to-length ratio, calculated at around 220, indicates a moderately heavy displacement, positioning it between ultralight racers and heavy traditional cruisers, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway.

The sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.45 suggests a boat with balanced performance characteristics, capable of moving well in a range of conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in heavy winds. With a reported sail area of 349 square feet and a fractional sloop rig, the Bes 1/2 Ton boasts a generous sail plan designed to deliver good performance. Its theoretical hull speed is calculated at 6.56 knots, indicating its potential for respectable speeds under sail. Anecdotal reviews suggest the Elvstrøm 1/2 Ton, an equivalent model, strikes a balance between performance and comfort. The designers aimed for a "slightly more spacy hull design," which likely contributed to its handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Bes 1/2 Ton are not extensively documented in available public records, its designation as a "compact cruiser" and its 31.5-foot length suggest a functional layout typical of performance-oriented sailboats of its era. Given its competitive racing pedigree, the interior would likely have been optimized for essential cruising amenities rather than luxurious living space.

Expect a straightforward arrangement below decks, likely featuring a V-berth forward, a compact head, and a main salon with settees that may double as berths. A small galley area, possibly with a sink and space for a stove, would be anticipated, along with limited storage. The general finish quality would typically have reflected the robust fiberglass construction prevalent in Gouteron's designs, emphasizing practicality and durability. Boats derived from the same hull, such as the Elvstrom 32, were known to be available with both flush deck and coachroof models, which would have influenced interior headroom and volume.