Capri 16.5

[Bob]

Any thoughts on Capri 16.5? Considering Hunter 170, Capri 18. Other models I should look at?

 

[Erik]

Capri 16.5 vs Cap 18

The 16.5 and 18 are very different boats. The 16.5 is an open daysailer, whereas the 18 is a mini cruising boat. The 16.5 is easily trailered with most cars; the 18 needs a small truck or minivan at the very least. The 16.5 can be set up and launched in probably 10 min. or less; my 18 takes about 30-40 min. to rig and launch. If you really want a cabin (dry storage, sleeping space), then the 18 might just be the ticket. If singlehanded daysailing (or with another person or two) on protected waters and easy launching/recovery is what you want, then the 16.5 could be the boat. I already had a 14.5 ft open daysailer, so I got the Cap 18 to be my *cruiser*.

 

[Christopher L Muthig]

Capri 16.5

I just saw the 16.5 at the boat show yesterday and compared it briefly to the Hunter. Not impressed. With the Hunter, that is. The Capri looks like an awesome boat. I am looking now for some additional info on it, and will pass any along to you. I'd appreciate any info you can pass on to me. The only things I have going so far are the spec sheet from the boat show (vague to say the least) and one web page (their old home page). Good luck, and hope to hear from you soon. CHRIS

 

[Nick]

16 vs 16.5

A compromise between the 16.5 and the 18 might be a 16.5. I have one from about 92. It is a wing keel boat like the 18, but lighter and handles a little more like a dingy. It is a great family boat. More stable than a center board boat. Able to seat 4 adults or 2 adults and 4 kids. Not fast compared to a centerboard boat, but great for a leisurely sail.

 

[Bob Kurtz]

Capri 16.5

I love the 16.5, it's a pretty boat (okay, opinion only) that's reasonably roomy and fast. I also looked at the Hunter 17 (opinion again- too ugly), the JY 15 and Vanguard 15 (lots of fun but a little small), the Precision 15 (or was it 16?) and the Capri 14.2. The V15, JY, and C14.2 all have the advantage of active fleets in a lot of areas, not so for the C16.5, so that may be a minus for you. I think the quality of the boat is very good especially considering its reasonable price. It could be a real bear to right single-handed, but it's pretty stable and while I've buried the rail a few times, I haven't yet capsized. All-in-all, no regrets.Bob Kurtz, #430 "MarLin"