Cap 450 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Jeanneau Cap 450 commenced in 1986, reflecting Jeanneau's continued expansion into a diverse range of recreational boats. As a builder, Jeanneau had already established itself as an innovator, notably being an early adopter of fiberglass hull construction in the late 1950s and achieving mass production success with models like the Sangria in the 1970s. During the era of the Cap 450's introduction, Jeanneau's manufacturing ethos emphasized creating "liveable boats" that balanced performance with onboard comfort and featured elegant, modern lines. While specific details about the Cap 450's individual designer are not widely published, its design aligns with Jeanneau's overall philosophy of crafting practical and enjoyable boats for a broad audience. The Cap 450 was constructed with a solid fiberglass hull, a testament to Jeanneau's proven expertise in durable marine construction. There is no information to suggest significant variations or different marks during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cap 450 is characterized by its simple yet effective sailing setup, featuring a fractional sloop rig. With a length overall of 15.26 feet and a waterline length of 14.00 feet, combined with a beam of 6.56 feet, it is a nimble vessel well-suited for its intended purpose. It has a displacement of 992 pounds, suggesting a relatively light and responsive feel on the water. The hull design incorporates a long keel with a transom-hung rudder, a configuration known for providing good directional stability and ease of handling. The Cap 450 boasts a theoretical hull speed of 5.01 knots, indicating its potential for spirited performance in suitable conditions. Reviews highlight its "unerring" nature and "truly comfortable stability at sea," making it a reassuring boat for its size, particularly for those looking for a stable platform for sailing or fishing.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact dimensions, the Jeanneau Cap 450 offers a basic yet functional interior, primarily designed for day use with minimal overnight capabilities. The layout typically includes a small cabin, which provides two berths, each measuring approximately 1.90 meters by 0.66 meters. These berths often come with mattresses, and crucially, feature storage lockers located beneath them on both port and starboard sides. This setup allows for some protection from the elements and a modest amount of secure storage for gear. The open deck space and cockpit are generally configured for ease of movement and practicality, accommodating its dual role as a fishing and sailing vessel. As such, extensive headroom or a dedicated galley and head compartment are not features of this small model.