Suitable Cape Dory

[Jim Mageras]

I am looking for a traditional cruising sailboat for my family. We are
a novice sailing family of six (four young children). Does a CD27 have a large enough cockpit for my family? As owners, what is the minimum size you would recommend? It will be used primarily for day trips but my wife insists on at least some creature comforts (a head, a place to change a baby, etc.)

Thanks



jm@brudersoft.com

[zeida cecilia-mendez]

It all depends on your budget!! It would be better if you can get a 28! It is a little beamier, with a little more room inside, better for wife and kids! The 27 is a faster but narrower sailboat. She is probably the best sailor of all the Cape Dorys, but since you have a considerable family, the 28, with its club jib is also easier to handle. Hope you can get a good one! Good luck. Zeida





zcecil@ibm.net

[Stephen]

My neighbor recently bought a Bristol 27', also designed by Carl Arlberg. He likes it because it has a huge cockpit, but a small cabin. If you are not planning on overnighting on the boat, this might be a better option.

A large cockpit is better for daysailing because, unless you get caught in nasty weather, it's best to keep everyone outside (where they won't get seasick, for instance). You don't need much of a cabin for a porta-potty and cooler.

Stephen



sailing@star.net