Hello fellow Cape Dory fans!
I am hoping that I can gain a little guidance from those that are more knowledgeable than I on the Cape Dorys. I have already done a fair amount of homework, but would like some additional insight before I make a final decision on one of the following models. I am planning on living aboard and sailing it by myself most of the time. Living in South Florida, I plan on doing frequent trips to the Bahamas, and later some extended trips. I am looking for an offshore pocket cruiser with a shallow draft, holding tank and pump out capable, and a reasonable balance between living space and storage. Some of the questions that I had in regards to the specific models are below. If you have answers to the following questions, things to have the surveyor look for, sailing characteristics, or opinions, that would be very helpful. Thanks in advance.
CD 30:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 30 MKII:
o Reportedly, there were 30 of these built, yet proportionately there are a lot of these on the market. Why is that? Is this not a popular model?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the U shaped galley?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 300 MOTORSAILOR:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How does the pilothouse handle in a crosswind during a docking?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o What do you do for a quarterberth while underway?
CD 31:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 32:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 33:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 330:
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
d_w_a@hotmail.com
Cape Dory Questions
Moderator: Jim Walsh
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Olli Wendelin
Re: Cape Dory Questions
Dave,
For a live aboard, I would recommend the largest boat you can afford, within reason. Specifically, I would look at the CD36 in the CD line.
As to your questions. I own a 1977 CD30 Ketch.
The cockpit lockers are not accessible from the cabin. They are also not sealed off from the cabin or the engine compartment. There is about an inch gap between the aft cabin blkd and the bridge deck. This is not visible due to the liner, but it allows heat and noise to pass into the cabin from the engine.
The self-tending club footed jib is great when going to weather. To tack you only turn the wheel, no sheets to deal with. It also reduces the number of lines in the cockpit. It is very little risk for crew that is aware, but I do not allow guests forward when the "club" is flying. When winds are light and a larger jib (>100%)is used, I tie the jib boom off to a stanchion base.
Both masts are deck stepped.
Good Luck with your search,
Olli Wendelin
BLUE MOON
Charleston, SC
wendelin@spawar.navy.mil
For a live aboard, I would recommend the largest boat you can afford, within reason. Specifically, I would look at the CD36 in the CD line.
As to your questions. I own a 1977 CD30 Ketch.
The cockpit lockers are not accessible from the cabin. They are also not sealed off from the cabin or the engine compartment. There is about an inch gap between the aft cabin blkd and the bridge deck. This is not visible due to the liner, but it allows heat and noise to pass into the cabin from the engine.
The self-tending club footed jib is great when going to weather. To tack you only turn the wheel, no sheets to deal with. It also reduces the number of lines in the cockpit. It is very little risk for crew that is aware, but I do not allow guests forward when the "club" is flying. When winds are light and a larger jib (>100%)is used, I tie the jib boom off to a stanchion base.
Both masts are deck stepped.
Good Luck with your search,
Olli Wendelin
BLUE MOON
Charleston, SC
wendelin@spawar.navy.mil
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Gary L. Browning
Re: Cape Dory Questions
Dear Olli - I am interested in hearing your feed-back concerning owning and sailing a ketch rather than, say, the CD30. Have looked around, and currently own a Typhoon.:Olli Wendelin wrote:
Be as verbois as you want!
Gary
Olli Wendelin
Olli Wendelin wrote: BLUE MOON
Charleston, SC
revgarylee@hotmail.com
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Catherine Monaghan
Re: Cape Dory 32
Dave,
The cockpit lockers in the CD32 are completely separate from the cabin. There are 3 cockpit lockers. Only the propane locker is sealed from the rest of the boat and it is vented to the exterior. The propane locker is located on the starboard side behind the area of the quarter berth. There's a locker at the stern which is separated from the engine compartment by a bulkhead, and there's a large locker to port which is also separated, with a bulkhead, from the galley compartment and there's another bulkhead which also provides access to the engine compartment. None of these bulkheads are watertight bulkheads since they've got hoses and wiring running through them.
The mast is deckstepped.
As mentioned above, there's a quarter berth to starboard.
Hope this helps.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
The cockpit lockers in the CD32 are completely separate from the cabin. There are 3 cockpit lockers. Only the propane locker is sealed from the rest of the boat and it is vented to the exterior. The propane locker is located on the starboard side behind the area of the quarter berth. There's a locker at the stern which is separated from the engine compartment by a bulkhead, and there's a large locker to port which is also separated, with a bulkhead, from the galley compartment and there's another bulkhead which also provides access to the engine compartment. None of these bulkheads are watertight bulkheads since they've got hoses and wiring running through them.
The mast is deckstepped.
As mentioned above, there's a quarter berth to starboard.
Hope this helps.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
Dave A. wrote: Hello fellow Cape Dory fans!
I am hoping that I can gain a little guidance from those that are more knowledgeable than I on the Cape Dorys. I have already done a fair amount of homework, but would like some additional insight before I make a final decision on one of the following models. I am planning on living aboard and sailing it by myself most of the time. Living in South Florida, I plan on doing frequent trips to the Bahamas, and later some extended trips. I am looking for an offshore pocket cruiser with a shallow draft, holding tank and pump out capable, and a reasonable balance between living space and storage. Some of the questions that I had in regards to the specific models are below. If you have answers to the following questions, things to have the surveyor look for, sailing characteristics, or opinions, that would be very helpful. Thanks in advance.
CD 30:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 30 MKII:
o Reportedly, there were 30 of these built, yet proportionately there are a lot of these on the market. Why is that? Is this not a popular model?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the U shaped galley?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 300 MOTORSAILOR:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How does the pilothouse handle in a crosswind during a docking?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o What do you do for a quarterberth while underway?
CD 31:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 32:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 33:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 330:
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
-
Dave A.
Are all Cape Dorys' masts deck-stepped?
Are all Cape Dorys' masts deck-stepped? Other than not needing a crane to set the mast, what other advantages to deck-stepping as opposed to keel-stepped?
d_w_a@hotmail.com
Catherine Monaghan wrote: Dave,
The cockpit lockers in the CD32 are completely separate from the cabin. There are 3 cockpit lockers. Only the propane locker is sealed from the rest of the boat and it is vented to the exterior. The propane locker is located on the starboard side behind the area of the quarter berth. There's a locker at the stern which is separated from the engine compartment by a bulkhead, and there's a large locker to port which is also separated, with a bulkhead, from the galley compartment and there's another bulkhead which also provides access to the engine compartment. None of these bulkheads are watertight bulkheads since they've got hoses and wiring running through them.
The mast is deckstepped.
As mentioned above, there's a quarter berth to starboard.
Hope this helps.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
Dave A. wrote: Hello fellow Cape Dory fans!
I am hoping that I can gain a little guidance from those that are more knowledgeable than I on the Cape Dorys. I have already done a fair amount of homework, but would like some additional insight before I make a final decision on one of the following models. I am planning on living aboard and sailing it by myself most of the time. Living in South Florida, I plan on doing frequent trips to the Bahamas, and later some extended trips. I am looking for an offshore pocket cruiser with a shallow draft, holding tank and pump out capable, and a reasonable balance between living space and storage. Some of the questions that I had in regards to the specific models are below. If you have answers to the following questions, things to have the surveyor look for, sailing characteristics, or opinions, that would be very helpful. Thanks in advance.
CD 30:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 30 MKII:
o Reportedly, there were 30 of these built, yet proportionately there are a lot of these on the market. Why is that? Is this not a popular model?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the U shaped galley?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 300 MOTORSAILOR:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How does the pilothouse handle in a crosswind during a docking?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o What do you do for a quarterberth while underway?
CD 31:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 32:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 33:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 330:
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
d_w_a@hotmail.com
-
Tom
Answers for the CD 31
On the CD 31 the mast is keel stepped. The cockpit lockers are not open to the cabin. On the starboard side the part of the icebox sticks into the cockpit locker and thus is a buffer between the cockpit locker and the cabin. On the port side there is a bulkhead between the c-locker and the cabin and then the counter for the shower room (head) before you get to the cabin. These are watertight at the bottom, but the inboard cockpit locker bulkheads are not watertight and have twist locks that allow them to be removed to give access to the back of the engine, the transmission, the steering etc. Water coming in through the cockpit locker lid would not get to the cabin, but would run into the bilge through these removable panels. The cockpit locker lids are very deep and you would not take water into the lockers unless you filled the cockpit with water.
TomCambria@mindspring.com
Dave A. wrote: Hello fellow Cape Dory fans!
I am hoping that I can gain a little guidance from those that are more knowledgeable than I on the Cape Dorys. I have already done a fair amount of homework, but would like some additional insight before I make a final decision on one of the following models. I am planning on living aboard and sailing it by myself most of the time. Living in South Florida, I plan on doing frequent trips to the Bahamas, and later some extended trips. I am looking for an offshore pocket cruiser with a shallow draft, holding tank and pump out capable, and a reasonable balance between living space and storage. Some of the questions that I had in regards to the specific models are below. If you have answers to the following questions, things to have the surveyor look for, sailing characteristics, or opinions, that would be very helpful. Thanks in advance.
CD 30:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 30 MKII:
o Reportedly, there were 30 of these built, yet proportionately there are a lot of these on the market. Why is that? Is this not a popular model?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the U shaped galley?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 300 MOTORSAILOR:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How does the pilothouse handle in a crosswind during a docking?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o What do you do for a quarterberth while underway?
CD 31:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 32:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 33:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 330:
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
TomCambria@mindspring.com
-
Michael Heintz
Re: Cape Dory Questions MK answers
One of the main differences of the MK II, as you probably know, is the increased beam to 10'6". WOW what a difference. Before purchasing "Machts Nichts", I looked at a lot of CD 30's. I liked the boat, and always wanted a cutter rig. However, once I saw the MK that was it. It is a sloop rig. I read in a brochure somewhere that the MK gives you 35% more room below and the room of a much larger boat. It never fails that someone visiting on board, that they comment of how much room we have. For a live aboard this is perfect. Still a 30 foot boat which can be handeled solo. The U galley is great, terrific for cooking underway. The sit down shower works great, a nice luxury for a 30 foot sailboat.
Cockpit lockers and mast step same as 30's.
These boats do cost quite a more, in the range of $50,000 to $70,000.
This MK II fit my needs, I too will be sailing the Bahamas soon, for extended periods of time, and the extra space will be nice.
Any other questions..... just e- mail me.
Michael Heintz
s/v Machts Nichts MK II 004
mzenith@aol.com
Cockpit lockers and mast step same as 30's.
These boats do cost quite a more, in the range of $50,000 to $70,000.
This MK II fit my needs, I too will be sailing the Bahamas soon, for extended periods of time, and the extra space will be nice.
Any other questions..... just e- mail me.
Michael Heintz
s/v Machts Nichts MK II 004
mzenith@aol.com
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Catherine Monaghan
Re: No, some are keel-stepped.
Most of the smaller model CDs have deck-stepped masts but the CD33 and larger have keel-stepped masts. I'm not sure of the arrangement in the non-Alberg designs like the CD30MKII or the Intrepid models. I think the CD31 also has a keel-stepped mast but I cannot remember.
Our CD32 has a compression post which is a 4x4 that extends from the keel to the cabin ceiling under the deck step. It is nicely hidden and incorporated into the bulkhead that separates the main cabin from the head. The area under the step is cored with an aluminum plate rather than just sitting on solid fiberglass. The main bulkheads also help to distribute the loads.
The mast step reinforcement method is not the same for all of the CDs.
A crane is definitely needed to step and unstep the mast of our CD32 but the trailerable models shouldn't need a crane.
I think there are probably as many disadvantages as there are advantages to either method of mast step. But for a small boat, the main advantage is probably space. The mast is intrusive and would use up precious space in the interior or just be in the way. In larger boats, it's actually a nice handhold and there's usually enough room on either side of it to get around it. If, God forbid, you're ever dismasted, you don't have to worry about the remains of the mast in the interior destroying the hull and sinking the boat (just what's left hanging over the side destroying the hull and sinking the boat). This is a great topic for discussion, I'm sure others will add to the list.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
Our CD32 has a compression post which is a 4x4 that extends from the keel to the cabin ceiling under the deck step. It is nicely hidden and incorporated into the bulkhead that separates the main cabin from the head. The area under the step is cored with an aluminum plate rather than just sitting on solid fiberglass. The main bulkheads also help to distribute the loads.
The mast step reinforcement method is not the same for all of the CDs.
A crane is definitely needed to step and unstep the mast of our CD32 but the trailerable models shouldn't need a crane.
I think there are probably as many disadvantages as there are advantages to either method of mast step. But for a small boat, the main advantage is probably space. The mast is intrusive and would use up precious space in the interior or just be in the way. In larger boats, it's actually a nice handhold and there's usually enough room on either side of it to get around it. If, God forbid, you're ever dismasted, you don't have to worry about the remains of the mast in the interior destroying the hull and sinking the boat (just what's left hanging over the side destroying the hull and sinking the boat). This is a great topic for discussion, I'm sure others will add to the list.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
Dave A. wrote: Are all Cape Dorys' masts deck-stepped? Other than not needing a crane to set the mast, what other advantages to deck-stepping as opposed to keel-stepped?
Catherine Monaghan wrote: Dave,
The cockpit lockers in the CD32 are completely separate from the cabin. There are 3 cockpit lockers. Only the propane locker is sealed from the rest of the boat and it is vented to the exterior. The propane locker is located on the starboard side behind the area of the quarter berth. There's a locker at the stern which is separated from the engine compartment by a bulkhead, and there's a large locker to port which is also separated, with a bulkhead, from the galley compartment and there's another bulkhead which also provides access to the engine compartment. None of these bulkheads are watertight bulkheads since they've got hoses and wiring running through them.
The mast is deckstepped.
As mentioned above, there's a quarter berth to starboard.
Hope this helps.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
Catherine Monaghan wrote:Dave A. wrote: Hello fellow Cape Dory fans!
I am hoping that I can gain a little guidance from those that are more knowledgeable than I on the Cape Dorys. I have already done a fair amount of homework, but would like some additional insight before I make a final decision on one of the following models. I am planning on living aboard and sailing it by myself most of the time. Living in South Florida, I plan on doing frequent trips to the Bahamas, and later some extended trips. I am looking for an offshore pocket cruiser with a shallow draft, holding tank and pump out capable, and a reasonable balance between living space and storage. Some of the questions that I had in regards to the specific models are below. If you have answers to the following questions, things to have the surveyor look for, sailing characteristics, or opinions, that would be very helpful. Thanks in advance.
CD 30:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 30 MKII:
o Reportedly, there were 30 of these built, yet proportionately there are a lot of these on the market. Why is that? Is this not a popular model?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the U shaped galley?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 300 MOTORSAILOR:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How does the pilothouse handle in a crosswind during a docking?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o What do you do for a quarterberth while underway?
CD 31:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 32:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 33:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 330:
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
-
Catherine Monaghan
Re: No, some are keel-stepped.
Most of the smaller model CDs have deck-stepped masts but the CD33 and larger have keel-stepped masts. I'm not sure of the arrangement in the non-Alberg designs like the CD30MKII or the Intrepid models. I think the CD31 also has a keel-stepped mast but I cannot remember.
Our CD32 has a compression post which is a 4x4 that extends from the keel to the cabin ceiling under the deck step. It is nicely hidden and incorporated into the bulkhead that separates the main cabin from the head. The area under the step is cored with an aluminum plate rather than just sitting on solid fiberglass. The main bulkheads also help to distribute the loads.
The mast step reinforcement method is not the same for all of the CDs.
A crane is definitely needed to step and unstep the mast of our CD32 but the trailerable models shouldn't need a crane.
I think there are probably as many disadvantages as there are advantages to either method of mast step. But for a small boat, the main advantage is probably space. The mast is intrusive and would use up precious space in the interior or just be in the way. In larger boats, it's actually a nice handhold and there's usually enough room on either side of it to get around it. If, God forbid, you're ever dismasted, you don't have to worry about the remains of the mast in the interior destroying the hull and sinking the boat (just what's left hanging over the side destroying the hull and sinking the boat). This is a great topic for discussion, I'm sure others will add to the list.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
Our CD32 has a compression post which is a 4x4 that extends from the keel to the cabin ceiling under the deck step. It is nicely hidden and incorporated into the bulkhead that separates the main cabin from the head. The area under the step is cored with an aluminum plate rather than just sitting on solid fiberglass. The main bulkheads also help to distribute the loads.
The mast step reinforcement method is not the same for all of the CDs.
A crane is definitely needed to step and unstep the mast of our CD32 but the trailerable models shouldn't need a crane.
I think there are probably as many disadvantages as there are advantages to either method of mast step. But for a small boat, the main advantage is probably space. The mast is intrusive and would use up precious space in the interior or just be in the way. In larger boats, it's actually a nice handhold and there's usually enough room on either side of it to get around it. If, God forbid, you're ever dismasted, you don't have to worry about the remains of the mast in the interior destroying the hull and sinking the boat (just what's left hanging over the side destroying the hull and sinking the boat). This is a great topic for discussion, I'm sure others will add to the list.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
Dave A. wrote: Are all Cape Dorys' masts deck-stepped? Other than not needing a crane to set the mast, what other advantages to deck-stepping as opposed to keel-stepped?
Catherine Monaghan wrote: Dave,
The cockpit lockers in the CD32 are completely separate from the cabin. There are 3 cockpit lockers. Only the propane locker is sealed from the rest of the boat and it is vented to the exterior. The propane locker is located on the starboard side behind the area of the quarter berth. There's a locker at the stern which is separated from the engine compartment by a bulkhead, and there's a large locker to port which is also separated, with a bulkhead, from the galley compartment and there's another bulkhead which also provides access to the engine compartment. None of these bulkheads are watertight bulkheads since they've got hoses and wiring running through them.
The mast is deckstepped.
As mentioned above, there's a quarter berth to starboard.
Hope this helps.
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
CD32 <a href="http://www.hometown.aol.com/bcomet/real ... ization</a>, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay
Catherine Monaghan wrote:Dave A. wrote: Hello fellow Cape Dory fans!
I am hoping that I can gain a little guidance from those that are more knowledgeable than I on the Cape Dorys. I have already done a fair amount of homework, but would like some additional insight before I make a final decision on one of the following models. I am planning on living aboard and sailing it by myself most of the time. Living in South Florida, I plan on doing frequent trips to the Bahamas, and later some extended trips. I am looking for an offshore pocket cruiser with a shallow draft, holding tank and pump out capable, and a reasonable balance between living space and storage. Some of the questions that I had in regards to the specific models are below. If you have answers to the following questions, things to have the surveyor look for, sailing characteristics, or opinions, that would be very helpful. Thanks in advance.
CD 30:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 30 MKII:
o Reportedly, there were 30 of these built, yet proportionately there are a lot of these on the market. Why is that? Is this not a popular model?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the U shaped galley?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 300 MOTORSAILOR:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How does the pilothouse handle in a crosswind during a docking?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o What do you do for a quarterberth while underway?
CD 31:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
CD 32:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 33:
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o How do you like the separate, sit-down shower stall?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
o Quarterberth to starboard?
CD 330:
o Those that have used the self-tending club footed jib, what did you think? Did it make going to the forward deck any riskier with the extra “boom” swinging around low to the deck? Can a cutter be sailed without this?
o Are the cockpit lockers sealed off from the cabin (e.g., Pearson boats are not, as the cockpit locker opens into the cabin)?
o Mast deck-stepped or keel-stepped?
catherine_monaghan@merck.com
-
Frank Vernet
Re: Cape Dory Questions
Hi Dave:
I've never lived aboard, but I would think that bigger is better. I have a CD33 and:
1) The cockpit lazerettes are sealed off from the cabin,
2) The head is roomy enough, however, I have never showered in it,
3) Mast is keel-stepped,
4) Quarterberth is to stbd. It's my favorite and most comfortable place to sleep (I'm 6' and 200lbs). Plus I like the Nav Station setup and quick access to the cockpit.
Hope this helps you a little bit. Good luck.
Frank Vernet
CO "Sirius" CD33 #84
I've never lived aboard, but I would think that bigger is better. I have a CD33 and:
1) The cockpit lazerettes are sealed off from the cabin,
2) The head is roomy enough, however, I have never showered in it,
3) Mast is keel-stepped,
4) Quarterberth is to stbd. It's my favorite and most comfortable place to sleep (I'm 6' and 200lbs). Plus I like the Nav Station setup and quick access to the cockpit.
Hope this helps you a little bit. Good luck.
Frank Vernet
CO "Sirius" CD33 #84
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Olli Wendelin
Re: Cape Dory Questions
Gary,
Here is a posting I put out in January.
*****************************************************
Ketch or cutter? Good question. The sloop and cutter rig certainly appear to be more popular. All the later year Cape Dorys are cutters or sloops. All the listings I have seen for ketches are either 77's or 78's. Note that the hull is the same for either rig. The interior varies a bit by year, but not by rig. I purchased a ketch because of opportunity, cost, and timing (1977 CD30 #36). I liked the idea of a ketch rig, but was concerned that it might be a bit crowded in a 30 ft boat.
I can seat five comfortably in the cockpit, seven with some crowding. This is with the helmsman sitting on the steering gear. Without the mizzen mast I could probably fit one more. The mizzen mast and boom turn out to be good cockpit handholds in rough weather. The mast is just right as a handhold when coming up from the cabin. The mizzen shrouds and main split backstay are a little busy, but again provide good handholds. I have a cockpit awning that goes under the mizzen boom and provides good rain and sun protection, and can be used while flying the mizzen.
The main mast is farther forward on the ketch rig (2 ft ?). This allows me to store my 8' 6" dinghy on the cabin top for offshore work. I don't believe you could do this with the cutter rig.
The main boom does not extend over the cockpit as it does on the cutter, which is a saftey plus in case of an accidental jib.
Handling of the mizzen sail is a snap. In addition to the standard sails, a mizzen staysail and mizzen spinnaker could be flown from the ketch, if you really want to stay busy.
I also use the mizzen boom as a crane for my dinghy outboard.
Here are the comparison working sail sizes for the cutter and ketch:
Cutter: Fore Triangle 232, Main 205, Total 437
Ketch: Fore Triangle 207, Main 165, Mizzen 66.5, Total 438.5
I fly a 150 genoa on light air days. When that flaps, I break out the iron genoa.
One final point in favor of the ketch is that it is a blow against the humdrum skyline of single masted, sloop rigged, plastic boats seen on most sailing days and at most marinas.
I bow to others to highlight the benefits of the cutter rig.
***************************************************
E-mail me if you have specific questions.
Olli Wendelin
BLUE MOON
Charleston, SC
wendelin@spawar.navy.mil
Here is a posting I put out in January.
*****************************************************
Ketch or cutter? Good question. The sloop and cutter rig certainly appear to be more popular. All the later year Cape Dorys are cutters or sloops. All the listings I have seen for ketches are either 77's or 78's. Note that the hull is the same for either rig. The interior varies a bit by year, but not by rig. I purchased a ketch because of opportunity, cost, and timing (1977 CD30 #36). I liked the idea of a ketch rig, but was concerned that it might be a bit crowded in a 30 ft boat.
I can seat five comfortably in the cockpit, seven with some crowding. This is with the helmsman sitting on the steering gear. Without the mizzen mast I could probably fit one more. The mizzen mast and boom turn out to be good cockpit handholds in rough weather. The mast is just right as a handhold when coming up from the cabin. The mizzen shrouds and main split backstay are a little busy, but again provide good handholds. I have a cockpit awning that goes under the mizzen boom and provides good rain and sun protection, and can be used while flying the mizzen.
The main mast is farther forward on the ketch rig (2 ft ?). This allows me to store my 8' 6" dinghy on the cabin top for offshore work. I don't believe you could do this with the cutter rig.
The main boom does not extend over the cockpit as it does on the cutter, which is a saftey plus in case of an accidental jib.
Handling of the mizzen sail is a snap. In addition to the standard sails, a mizzen staysail and mizzen spinnaker could be flown from the ketch, if you really want to stay busy.
I also use the mizzen boom as a crane for my dinghy outboard.
Here are the comparison working sail sizes for the cutter and ketch:
Cutter: Fore Triangle 232, Main 205, Total 437
Ketch: Fore Triangle 207, Main 165, Mizzen 66.5, Total 438.5
I fly a 150 genoa on light air days. When that flaps, I break out the iron genoa.
One final point in favor of the ketch is that it is a blow against the humdrum skyline of single masted, sloop rigged, plastic boats seen on most sailing days and at most marinas.
I bow to others to highlight the benefits of the cutter rig.
***************************************************
E-mail me if you have specific questions.
Olli Wendelin
BLUE MOON
Charleston, SC
wendelin@spawar.navy.mil