Motorboat Capelli Tempest 38 700hp review
Yacht · 39 ft (12 m) · Marseille
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- Capelli
- Model
- Tempest 38
- Length
- 39 ft (12 m)
- Guests
- 18
Verdict
A large, well-finished luxury RIB with strong performance potential, broad deck space and genuine day-boat versatility. It is best suited to owners who want fast coastal cruising and social space, while accepting that overnight comfort is limited to a compact cabin and basic liveaboard amenities.
Pros
- +Large RIB layout with seating and sunbathing space for up to 18 people
- +Strong twin-outboard performance with a high top-speed ceiling
- +Wide beam and RIB hull give a stable platform at anchor and underway
- +Quality Hypalon/Orca tube construction suited to heavy use
Cons
- −Cabin and overnight accommodation are limited to a single small cabin
- −Fuel and water capacity are modest for longer cruising trips
- −High output comes with significant running costs from twin engines
- −Best value depends on whether the buyer needs luxury day boating rather than true cruising
The Capelli Tempest 38 is a 39-foot luxury RIB built around a deep, social cockpit and a broad beam, with the brand's heavy-duty Hypalon/Orca tube construction. Publicly listed specifications consistently show a 11.9 m to 12.0 m overall length, about 3.5 m beam, and capacity for up to 18 people, which makes it more of a premium day boat than a conventional cruiser.
On the water, the Tempest 38 is clearly designed for speed and confident offshore coastal running. Sources describe twin-outboard setups in the 2 x 350 hp to 2 x 400 hp range, with reported top speeds around the mid-40-knot mark and strong cruising performance; the hull and weight suggest a boat that should feel secure and responsive in chop rather than soft and lazy. Handling should be lively but controlled, with the benefit of the RIB form in stability and grip.
Comfort is good for day use, with large lounging areas and enough deck volume to carry a full group without feeling cramped, but the interior is limited. Published listings generally show one small cabin and basic head arrangements, plus modest water capacity, so it offers occasional overnighting rather than true cruising livability. As a value proposition, it makes sense for buyers prioritizing style, space, and performance in a luxury tender/day-boat package; it is less compelling if extended cruising or multi-day comfort is the priority.
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