I just bought a 1981 Cape Dory 33 that is in pretty good shape. I am interested to hear from people who are familiar with this boat and its capabilities offshore. Will it take me to Tahiti? Are there any serious modifications I should consider?
Thanks.
derek.hillen@sgw.com
Are Cape Dory 33's good boats?
Moderator: Jim Walsh
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Barry
Re: Are Cape Dory 33's good boats?
Funny time to be asking about a boat if you've already bought it? I think you're safe, I also have a '81 CD 33 (posted for sale on this page). I have never had any question in the boat's ability. I've only made one ocean passage, but have been thoughly thrashed on Lake Ontario - the boat never gave me a worry. Mine is a sloop, and seems to suffer excessive weather helm. I think you need to carry at least 150% out front since the boat was designed as a cutter with the outboard tack on a bow sprit. With the sloop, the tack is at least 18 inches aft - I think this is source of the balance problem. I would also consider a few coats of epoxy. These boat were laid up whole, not in two halves. I've been told that working inside the mold below the turn it was very difficult to good layup and would often result in some minor voids - the notorious blister. Other than that I have no suggestions.Derek Hillen wrote: I just bought a 1981 Cape Dory 33 that is in pretty good shape. I am interested to hear from people who are familiar with this boat and its capabilities offshore. Will it take me to Tahiti? Are there any serious modifications I should consider?
Thanks.