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Small to medium-sized boats are the speciality of the Italian Capelli shipyard. The boat builders from Spinadesco, north-west of Parma, have been in the business since 1974. In addition to the GRP line, which has now grown to 18 models, Capelli entered the rigid-hull inflatable boat business in 1992. The range currently comprises eight lines with a total of 48 versions. The Tempest 700, which was recently given a facelift with changes to the console, driver's seat and stern, belongs to the upper mid-range of the "Top Line" model series.
In general, the manufacturer relies exclusively on high-quality hoses made from Hypalon. This is based on a high-strength polyester fabric with a coating of a very UV, temperature and ageing-resistant elastomer, which is far superior to the often used PVC in terms of durability. Thanks to its size, the Tempest 700 is also suitable for more than just coastal cruising and therefore has CE category "B" approval for up to ten people. For pure coastal cruising in accordance with CE-C, up to 16 people can be on board.
However, with an unladen weight of just over a tonne, the engine, accessories and trailer add up to quite a bit of weight, so a suitable towing vehicle is required. The basic version of the Capelli Tempest 700 is available from 52,360 euros. Of course, the outboard motor, accessories and installation as well as the desired extras are also included.
Layout on board the Capelli Tempest 700
The aft section has a bathing platform that is very easy to manoeuvre around the outboard motor. The bathing ladder is of course part of the basic equipment, but the beautiful flexi-teak in the test boat has to be paid for separately. Access to the cockpit is easy via a passageway on the port side, without the need to climb, and is also well secured thanks to the standard stainless steel equipment rack, which provides a good hold. In the cockpit, the furnishings begin with an upholstered bench seat. There is storage space underneath. The console for the double bench seat for the skipper and a co-driver is equipped with a folding table and six cup holders at the rear. In addition, an upholstered insert can be ordered here to convert the rear bench seat into another sun lounger. Several grab handles secure the area.
The centre console with the control station is located in front of the double bench. In addition to the engine instrumentation and controls, there is space here to mount a multifunction display with up to nine inches. There is no manual compass. There is also a sufficiently high acrylic glass windscreen with a sturdy stainless steel frame, which serves as a handhold. The front area of the console offers an upholstered seat. In the bow, there is another seat with more storage space, which can be converted into a 2.21 x 1.47 metre sun lounger using inserts. The loops on the tubes provide good support.
Capelli-RIB has very good manoeuvring characteristics
The maximum permissible motorisation in the form of a Yamaha F 225 is mounted on the transom. Stable planing speed is quickly reached at around 2500 and 17.3 knots. After a further 500 revolutions, you are in the area of maximum efficiency. At around 22 knots, 172 nautical miles are possible with the 205-litre tank after deducting the 15 percent reserve. According to our measurements, the maximum speed is 42.7 knots at 5900 revs. Overall, the powerful combination offers a lot of driving pleasure, a high level of safety, even in waves and at high speed, as well as very good manoeuvring characteristics. High-quality materials, very clean workmanship and assembly of all components are positive features.
Technical data
The boat
- Shipyard: Capelli/I
- Type:Tempest 700
- CE category:B 10
- Hull and deck:GRP/Hypalon
- Length over everything:7,35 m
- Width:2,86 m
- Depth: 0,37 m
- Clearance height:1,80 m
- Unladen weight (o. M.):1050 kg
- Fuel tank: 205 l
- Water tank opt:45 l
- Air chambers: 6
- Hose diameter: 0,58 m
- Sunbed foredeck: 2.21 x 147 m
- Max. motorisation: 165.5 kW (225 hp)
- Price (without motor):52 360 €
- Distribution: Performance RIBs GmbH, Claude-Dornier-Straße 20, 78467 Constance, www.performance-ribs.de
The motor
- Manufacturer:Yamaha
- Type: F 225
- Performance:165.5 kW (225 hp)
- Full load speed:5000-6000 rpm
- Cylinder:V6
- cubic capacity: 4169 cc
- Alternator: 12 V/70 A
- Fuel: Petrol
- Test propeller:3 sheets, stainless steel 15.5" x 17"
Our test judgement
Driving & manoeuvring
- + sporty driving characteristics
- + good manoeuvrability
Processing & technology
- + Good material and processing quality
- + Clean assembly of the components
Security
- + handles, six air chambers
- - No compass
Comfort on board
- + Easily accessible bathing platform
- + large sun lounger in the bow
Conclusion
The Capelli Tempest 700 impresses with its high-quality materials and good workmanship, which should ensure a long service life. Thanks to its good seaworthiness and CE category "B" classification, it can be used away from the coast. The sporty handling characteristics with the test engine ensure a lot of sailing fun
