Capri or F 235

[Joe M]

I'm trying to make a decision on my next boat.I'm down to either the Capri 25 or the First 235.I primarily daysail and clubrace with an occasional overnight stay.The PHRF's in my area are;Capri 25 = 174First 235 = 192Winda are very light with 5-10 considered a good night, and many nights tapering off to 2-3.I really like both boats but I also like winning and am curious which boat can be sailed closest to its rating in these conditions.ThanksJoe M

 

[David Walters]

For easiest silver - Capri 25

*** This opinion only based on what I've researched ***I haven't raced my 235 nor have I sailed on a Capri, but I can tell you that the beneteau can beat her rating , IF... you are very good and you sacrifice a few virgins at the beginning of each season.Seriously, the Capri is designed as a club racer with limited accomodations. With very little added it can be a rewarding ride. The F235 however will need a few things to bring home the silver regularly. <br>1) relocate the outboard to a lifting mount on starboard.2) strip the interior of all unneeded weight before each race (could be said for both boats, but the result will be more quickly felt in the beneteau)3) Only the fin keel is really competetive.4) Find one crew member that is about 200 lbs and nimble, one that is 150 lbs or less and loves bow work, and keep your weight (if you plan on steering) down to about 160 or less. The F235 is fast but only if trimmed just right.All that being said, keep in mind that with either boat you'll be racing in the same general category as a J24. How do you feel about loosing to several of these?

 

[Joe M]

Thanks Dave

Fortunatly the J's in my area all race one design in the J fleet. Much to competitive for me with new sails almost every year. I'm strictly a beer can racer. I was trying to race a 9600lb. Hunter 30 and found out that although it is a great boat it's not a lite wind racer.Gathering all the info indicates that the Capri is probably the best bet up here since it does a little better in light wind.Thanks for your inputJoe M.