This bulletin board, hosted by the CDSOA, Inc., is the on-line meeting place for all Cape Dory owners and groups. We welcome everyone's questions, answers and comments about Cape Dory sailboat
You would think that someone who can afford to spend what, 500K?, on a daysailer could afford to hire someone to design a dodger that does not ruin the boat's appearance.
I saw hull #1 of the Friendship 40 at the Newport Boat Show a couple of years ago - it's a sweetie (although I didn't see it with the dodger, Stan) but basically a daysailer, and so not really very practical.
The 53, on the other hand, could take you places, and draws less than 5 feet with the centerboard up.
Oh, and that's just my summer cottage in the background... naahhht!
The name "Alerion" (which literally means Heraldic Eagle) first gained nautical prominence back in 1912, when Nathaniel Herreshoff designed a 26' sloop for his personal use - and called it "Alerion". The timeless appeal of this design has spawned a host of imitations but the Alerion Express 28 is cast in a different mold. Rather than attempting a warmed-over re-creation of an old classic, Designer Carl Schumacher has drawn a yacht that retains the traditional look topside, but is completely modern in rig, underbody and construction detail. (From Alerion web)
I always thought of the Alerion Express 28 as a good measure of what it would cost to build a new CD25D through CD28 today. I'm guessing a range of $75-100K. There's a 2000 AE on Yachtworld for $74K.
We've all got great boats thanks to Carl A and Mr. V!