Cape Dory 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Cape Dory 27 falls squarely within Cape Dory Yachts' golden era, a period when founder Andrew Vavolotis's vision for quality and durability, coupled with Carl Alberg's design prowess, yielded a string of successful models. Carl Alberg was known for his philosophy of creating boats with long, graceful overhangs, low freeboard, and ease of handling, prioritizing comfortable family cruising over pure racing performance. The Cape Dory 27, like many of Alberg's designs for the builder, reflects this ethos with its traditional full-keel hull, a hallmark of Cape Dory's identity that contributes to directional stability and a sea-kindly motion.

During its production run from 1977 to 1985, Cape Dory Yachts had established itself as a master of solid fiberglass construction, a method that contributed to the exceptional durability and longevity for which their vessels are celebrated. This commitment to thick fiberglass layups and robust construction meant that Cape Dory boats, including the 27, offered owners a profound sense of security and reliability on the water. No significant variations like MkI or MkII models were prominently noted during the production of the Cape Dory 27, maintaining a consistent design throughout its run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cape Dory 27's design strongly emphasizes stability and a comfortable ride over outright speed. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 14.63, the Cape Dory 27 is considered slightly underpowered, suggesting it will perform best in moderate to stronger breezes and may require more wind to get moving effectively in light air. However, this characteristic is balanced by its substantial Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.40 (40%), indicating excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a good blow without excessive heeling.

Its Displacement to Length ratio, a high 418.5, firmly places the Cape Dory 27 in the category of a heavy, traditional displacement cruiser. This heavy displacement contributes significantly to its reputation for a comfortable, sea-kindly motion, making it a reassuring vessel in a seaway. Owners frequently describe the Cape Dory 27 as a delightful sailor, performing nicely with good manners. While not a speed demon, its full keel and attached rudder (common for its era) provide excellent directional stability, though they can make maneuvering in reverse a bit more challenging. The standard 8 HP Yanmar diesel engine, often original equipment, is generally considered sufficient for maneuvering the boat.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 27 feet, the Cape Dory 27 is praised for its traditional and functional interior layout, designed to maximize comfort and utility for coastal cruising. The interior typically features attractive teak trim, contributing to a classic yacht ambiance.

While specific headroom isn't available in the provided data, owners often note that the V-berth forward, though functional, can feel a bit cramped for taller individuals. A common arrangement includes a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head compartment to port, and a hanging locker to starboard. The main salon usually consists of settees on either side, which can double as berths, and a fold-down table. A small galley area, often incorporating a sink, icebox, and sometimes a stove, is typically found near the companionway. Storage throughout the boat is generally considered adequate for its size, making it suitable for weekend trips and extended coastal cruises. Ventilation is typically provided by opening ports and a foredeck hatch.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Cape Dory 27 for its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics. Many view it as a wonderful all-purpose boat, often described as "the biggest of Cape Dory's small boats". The robust, thick fiberglass hull and full keel contribute to a feeling of security and a comfortable motion even in challenging conditions. The classic aesthetics and attractive teak interiors are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, appealing to those who appreciate traditional yacht design. The strong community surrounding Cape Dory boats, including active online forums, is also a considerable benefit, offering a valuable resource for knowledge sharing and support.

However, like many older vessels, the Cape Dory 27 can have common maintenance issues. Deck delamination, particularly on the foredeck and cockpit floor, is a recurring concern for older Cape Dory models. Owners also occasionally discuss the challenges of backing up a full-keel boat due to its directional stability. Overall, owners emphasize the enduring quality of these vessels, noting that many Cape Dory 27s are still actively sailed and enjoyed decades after their construction.