Capestang bridge, Navigation bridge on Canal du Midi in Capestang, France

Capestang bridge is a stone structure crossing the Canal du Midi in southern France with a confined passage for boats. The opening narrows as you move toward the center, creating the tightest spot vessels must navigate through.

The bridge crosses the Canal du Midi at PK 189 at Capestang. It was rebuilt in recent times, but because it is historic, its small dimensions were kept. It is the lowest structure on the canal, so it sets the maximum size of boats that can pass.

Boaters on the Canal du Midi treat Capestang bridge at PK 189 as the canal's height gauge: it is the lowest structure on the waterway, so hire companies have their fleets built to fit beneath it. A British boatbuilder supplying several French rental firms sizes hulls to clear the arch.

Boats need to measure themselves carefully before attempting passage, as the clearance is quite tight in places. It is wise to approach slowly and seek help from the banks if needed.

The bridge functions as an informal measuring system for boat sizes, since its tight dimensions match the standard that many vessels are built to match. Captains use this location as a practical reference for their craft dimensions.