Cape Cod 896 Information, Review, Specs

The journey of the Cape Cod 896 began in 2010, when it entered production as a response to growing demand from friends of Rosewest's founder, Hervé Nollet. Nollet, an accomplished boat builder and yacht designer, brought an industrial design background to the marine world, aiming to create vessels that melded traditional boatbuilding techniques with contemporary advancements. Rosewest's manufacturing ethos, maintained from their base in Bordeaux, France, involves a meticulous "design-to-finish" process, embracing modern composites while preserving the artistry of traditional teak work.

The design of the Cape Cod 896 reflects this blend, drawing inspiration from 1920s canots while incorporating modern features. Notable variations and design choices include a pivoting centerboard and rudder, which allow for a minimum draft of 1.48 feet (0.45 meters) for shallow water access, extendable to a maximum draft of 4.76 feet (1.45 meters) for enhanced sailing performance. An optional deep centerboard extends this further to 6.07 feet (1.85 meters). The boat also features a retractable bowsprit and offers various sail plan options, including a larger optional main and jib sail area, allowing owners to tailor performance to their preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cape Cod 896 is lauded for its high-performance capabilities and exemplary balance under sail. With a reported sail area of 426.25 sq ft and a displacement of 3,196 lbs, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) is approximately 30.9, indicating strong light-air performance and responsiveness. This high ratio is characteristic of a lively and easily driven boat, perfect for its day-sailing purpose.

Her Ballast to Displacement ratio, at roughly 32.4%, contributes to its stability and ability to stand up to a breeze. While not extremely high, it is sufficient for a lightweight daysailer of its type. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 113.5 signifies a very light displacement boat relative to its waterline length (23.25 ft). This low D/L suggests a vessel designed for speed and agility, reinforcing its character as a performance-oriented dayboat. Described by experts as having "unparalleled stability," the Cape Cod 896 is considered a "best daysailer" and an "all-purpose boat" that is "user-friendly, elegant and practical."

Accommodations and Layout

As a luxury dayboat, the Cape Cod 896 prioritizes a spacious and inviting cockpit for enjoyment on the water. While detailed interior specifications like maximum headroom are not widely published, the design includes a forward accessible cabin. This cabin is primarily intended for storage but also offers two berths, suitable for a nap or occasional overnight stay, aligning with its "epicurean dayboat" designation. The interior finish typically reflects Rosewest's commitment to quality, blending traditional teak with modern composites, providing a refined and comfortable atmosphere consistent with a premium vessel.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and experts alike generally hold the Cape Cod 896 in high regard, praising its aesthetic appeal and sailing characteristics. It has been recognized by publications such as Sail Magazine as "Best Boat of the Year," underscoring its acclaim within the industry. Common sentiments suggest that owners appreciate its lightweight construction and elegant design, finding little to fault with its overall concept and execution. The emphasis on high-quality design and finish, coupled with its engaging sailing performance, contributes to a very positive ownership experience for those seeking a sophisticated and capable dayboat.