A Story of Passion and Innovation
Interview with Dr. Umberto Capelli, Founder of Cantieri Capelli
We’re excited to share with you a special feature that tells the story of one of the most prestigious names in Italian boating: Cantieri Capelli. Born in the heart of Cremona and grown through the vision and determination of its founder, the company is now a global benchmark for boats up to 15 meters.
In this exclusive interview, Dr. Umberto Capelli takes us on a fascinating journey: from the first boat built in a garage with his father, to today’s production of over 800 boats per year, distributed across Europe, Australia, the United States, and Asia.
An Entrepreneurial Journey Born from a Passion for the River
The dream of Cantieri Capelli began in 1974, on the banks of the Po River. From a small artisanal workshop, the company reached a turning point in 1987 with its first appearance at the Genoa Boat Show and the launch of the Junior 470, which sold 100 units in just a few days. This marked the start of steady growth, fueled by bold decisions and continuous innovation.
The Partnership with Yamaha and International Expansion
In the 1990s, Cantieri Capelli expanded into the production of inflatable boats alongside fiberglass vessels, opened a second plant in Tunisia, and formed a historic partnership with Yamaha for the distribution of boat-and-engine packages throughout Europe. This winning model established the company as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs).
Stradivari 43 and 52: Bringing Cremona’s Beauty to the Open Sea
Among the most iconic projects, Capelli proudly speaks of the Stradivari line, inspired by Cremona’s famed violin-making tradition. These are outstanding boats where every detail is crafted with the precision of a master artisan. It was in this context that Elka was chosen for the elegance and quality of its design faucets and accessories.
Elka Faucets: Functional Elegance Chosen by Cantieri Capelli
Dr. Capelli emphasized how faucets represent "a very important detail" on board—especially on exceptional models like the Stradivari line. Thanks to Elka, each faucet is not just a functional element, but an integrated piece of the overall design:
“…details matter a lot, and we felt Elka was the ideal partner” to provide that exclusive touch on board.
The choice of accessories like the removable and foldable carbon deck shower showcases how Elka’s work enhances the owner’s experience in every situation—even in the middle of a quiet bay.
As a testament to Cantieri Capelli’s commitment to artisanal quality, Elka faucets are proudly featured on models like the Stradivari 43 and 52, where design, functionality, and customization blend seamlessly.
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