This isn't our Cape Dory - fortunately. It's a '71 Morgan 30. The balsa core around the mast partner was not sealed from the factory, and previous owners fastened hardware through the deck without proper bedding techniques.
https://youtu.be/Z64ceYw4zgc
So far I've found two areas of exposed core on our CD36, so don't think that Cape Dory wouldn't cut corners, too. As our boats age, it's important to be proactive. Rebed hardware before water has a chance to get under it.