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Tonic conditions on the pond
As soon as we left Marseillan harbor, the tone was set: 25 knots established, a tight 60-centimeter chop, typical of the Etang de Thau in a westerly wind.
The water, although enclosed, offers an interesting configuration for this test: enough fetch to form nice short waves, but without the long swell of an open sea. It's a demanding terrain for compact hulls, where the slightest lack of balance is immediately felt.
The H19CC boasts a proven Ranieri design: deep-V hull, central step, slim water inlets and slightly tuliped bow. On the pontoon, the hull inspires confidence. Its streamlined silhouette and generous freeboards promise dry, controlled sailing.
Straightforward lift-off and controlled trim
With the engine running, the Honda BF100 lives up to its reputation as a linear, unobtrusive unit with plenty of torque. At 14 knots, the boat lifts off effortlessly, aided by a step hull that quickly lifts the hull. The trim remains horizontal, and the boat handles chop without excessive pitching. Even with three people on board, the center of gravity remains well centered, proof of a carefully studied weight distribution.
From the very first acceleration, the mechanical steering is surprisingly light and precise. The H19CC responds quickly, with no steering instability. The boat retains its composure under acceleration: the Ranieri design, honed over decades, seems well suited to the Honda block.
Surprisingly healthy behavior in choppy waters
At 20 knots, the H19CC cuts through the chop without slamming hard. The strakes and step help to channel the flow of water, and the hull remains surprisingly dry. Mind you, this is still a 5.55 m unit, and we're on a closed stretch of water. Cruising at 23 knots, the engine noise is as discreet as ever: the Honda 100 hp runs at 4,000 rpm, with an average consumption of around 16 liters per hour, a very reasonable figure for this power.
Lateral stability remains excellent in crosswind conditions. The boat heels very little and regains its trim as soon as the helm is released. The well-dimensioned transom limits water splashes, and the cockpit stays dry, even in the roughest waves.
In downwind conditions, behavior remains sound. The hull lifts off well and maintains its balance, with no untimely lurching. The boat runs straight and flat, with no need to adjust trim at every turn.
At full throttle, the GPS displays 35 knots, a very satisfactory figure given the strong wind and heavy seas. Fuel consumption climbs to around 36 liters/hour, but the boat remains perfectly stable, without vibrating or stalling.
At economical âeuro speeds of between 20 and 25 âeuro knots, efficiency is optimal, with a ratio of around 1.4 miles traveled per liter consumed.
Immediate driving pleasure
The well-designed helm station adds to the pleasure of steering. The upright position, slightly leaning on the leaning post, is natural and comfortable. Forward visibility remains excellent, even in rough seas. The large-diameter steering wheel provides good feedback, and the smooth Honda throttle responds without jerking.
Stability at standstill and fishing behaviour
The test continues in a static configuration, simulating a fishing situation. The H19CC remains remarkably stable for its size. Even when moving over an edge, the boat barely sinks. The all-round handrails provide effective support, and the high freeboard ensures safe movement.
It obviously lacks the presence and comfort of an 8-meter unit, but in its class, it stands out as a true little sailor, both playful and reassuring.
