Cape Dory 26 Information, Review, Specs

The Cape Dory 26 emerged late in the company's 28-year history, with production spanning from 1984 to 1986. The vessel is a testament to the enduring design philosophy of Carl Alberg, who was instrumental in shaping the Cape Dory brand. Alberg was known for creating boats with long, graceful overhangs, low freeboard, and an emphasis on ease of handling and comfort for family cruising, rather than pure racing performance. 7, 10, 14, Builder Article

Cape Dory Yachts, founded by Andrew Vavolotis, built its reputation on quality and durability, mastering fiberglass construction to create vessels known for their solid, thick fiberglass layups. This ethos is evident in the Cape Dory 26, which like many of its siblings, features a full-keel design. This choice contributes significantly to the boat's directional stability and sea-kindly motion, a hallmark of Cape Dory's identity during that era.

A notable variation during its brief production run was the option of an inboard diesel engine, in which case the model was designated as the Cape Dory 26D. The standard model featured an outboard well. The Cape Dory 26's design also presented a different interior layout compared to its predecessor, the Cape Dory 25D, on which it was based, adding an extra foot to the transom.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cape Dory 26 is characterized by its stable and forgiving sailing performance, a direct result of its design specifications. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.83, the boat is not designed for blistering speed, suggesting a more moderate performance in lighter winds and a preference for steady conditions. However, its robust construction and high ballast-to-displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.453 indicate excellent stability and stiffness, allowing it to stand up well to stronger winds. This is further reinforced by its high displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of about 331.8, classifying it as a heavy, traditional cruiser.

Owners generally describe the Cape Dory 26 as a safe and stable cruiser, ideal for relaxed sailing and comfortable offshore passages. It is often referred to as a "tank" due to its heavy, full-keel design, providing a secure feeling in various weather conditions and a good motion in a chop. While generally dependable, its full keel can make handling in confined spaces, such as harbors, somewhat more challenging.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cape Dory 26 adheres to a traditional sailboat layout, designed for practical cruising. The cabin typically features a forward V-berth, offering sleeping arrangements for two, complemented by quarter berths further aft. This arrangement, common for boats of its size and era, maximizes the usable space below deck. Details on specific finish quality are limited, but consistent with Cape Dory's reputation, the interior likely features solid construction and durable materials. One owner noted the presence of an interior salon table, indicating essential amenities for comfortable living aboard. While specific headroom figures are not provided, the "traditional" layout described in comparisons to other models suggests that standing headroom may be limited in certain areas, aligning with its compact cruiser profile.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cape Dory 26 consistently praise its solid construction and the sense of security it provides on the water, often highlighting its ability to handle various weather conditions safely. Many appreciate its comfortable motion in a seaway, a direct benefit of its robust, full-keel design, making it suitable for leisurely coastal cruising and extended voyages.

However, common feedback also points to its performance characteristics, noting that while safe, the Cape Dory 26 is not a fast boat and may not excel in extreme light or heavy air conditions. The full keel, while contributing to stability, can also lead to more challenging maneuverability in tight quarters or when docking. Forum discussions indicate that potential issues like engine access, particularly for the outboard well versions, may be a consideration for owners. The active Cape Dory owner community often shares insights on maintenance and upgrades, underscoring the enduring appeal and robust nature of these classic vessels.