Info on Cape Dory 25D

[Howard]

Am looking at the Cape Dory 25D. Any information about how she handles under power. What engines were installed during the production run. We have lots of current where we sail and handling under power to dock is important. Can it back-up?
thanks in advance for information help



Marker122@aol.com

[John Phillips]

Howard:
It may well be worth your time to get a copy of John Vigor's recent book, Twenty Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere. It devotes a chapter to the CD25D and covers many of its strengths and weaknesses. It also mentions a few areas to check when looking at buying one.
John

Am looking at the Cape Dory 25D. Any information about how she handles under power. What engines were installed during the production run. We have lots of current where we sail and handling under power to dock is important. Can it back-up?
thanks in advance for information help

broakmar@navix.net

[Chris Cram]

My 25D had the Yanmar 1GM--this engine never let me down and has always started briskly. With a clean bottom this engine pushs the boat easily at hull speed. With 15 knts on the nose you can expect to lose a knot to a knot and half. As to backing up---you know---the trick is to apply thrust then put it in neutral. If you back up while applying power the boat will prop walk to port (you can use this to advantage however). I remember one thunderstorm blowing up--I was just coming to anchor when a huge gust of wind began to blow the boat sideways. I couldn't power the bow up into the wind. I put it in reverse backed straight as an arrow --- regained control--- with the bow now in the wind I was able to easily come to anchor.

hope this helps,
Chris



cccobx@prodigy.net

[Bob Luby]

I concur with earlier comments. Remember, Cape Dories are full-keel boats, so manuevering them in reverse is a bit problematical. However they are seakindly. They came with Yanmar 1GM engines installed, which propel the boat well under most conditions.

Where you are sailing?



Rluby@aol.com

[Lee H. Hodsdon]

Howard,

Our CD 25D came with a Westerbeke 10-2 fresh water cooled diesel. It runs smooth, provides ample power for the Piscataqua River, and as a bonus, hot water! The boat sails well, though she is no rocket. Keep an eye on sail trim and you will have no problem. As to backing up, I only use reverse when I'm approaching the fuel dock a little hot, the boat is on a mooring and we sail on and off. Great boat for a couple. We cruise the Maine coast each summer for two weeks and love it.

Hope this helps,

Lee



lhodsdon@nh.ultranet.com