Cape Dory 270 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Cape Dory 270 emerged late in the original builder's history, with production commencing in 1984 and concluding in 1986. Founded by Andrew Vavolotis in 1963, Massachusetts-based Cape Dory Yachts earned a sterling reputation for its robust, traditional fiberglass sailboats. The company's commitment to durability was so strong that it established its own hardware division, Spartan Marine, to ensure components met exacting standards. Cape Dory's design ethos, largely shaped by Carl Alberg's influence across many models, emphasized seaworthiness, full-keel designs, and a "sea-kindly motion."

However, the Cape Dory 270 represents a notable departure in terms of its specific designer, with Dieter Empacher credited for its lines. The vessel features a cutter rig, which breaks the sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, a configuration often favored for offshore sailing due to its flexibility in varying wind conditions. It is noted that a later version of this design was marketed as the Hadley 27, which, while sharing the same length overall, typically featured a masthead sloop rig rather than the 270's cutter arrangement.

Sailing Performance and Handling

True to Cape Dory's heritage, the 270 is a heavily built sailboat designed for comfort and stability rather than outright speed. With a displacement of 8,380 pounds over a waterline length of 20.75 feet, it boasts a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 418.5. This high ratio firmly places the Cape Dory 270 in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, indicating a boat that will carry its way through choppy conditions with a comfortable motion.

Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of about 15.16 suggests that the Cape Dory 270 is somewhat underpowered, particularly in lighter winds, and will likely require a decent breeze to truly get moving. However, this is offset by its robust stability, highlighted by a ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 39% (3,250 lbs ballast in an 8,380 lbs boat). This high ballast ratio contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness and excellent righting capability, allowing it to stand up well to wind and provide a secure feel on the water. Owners generally praise its reliable sailing performance, attributing it to the solid construction.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 27.25 feet, the Cape Dory 270 is appreciated by owners for its surprisingly spacious interior for a boat of its size, contributing to its suitability for weekend trips and comfortable cruising. The layout typically includes a cozy cabin with a large V-berth forward, complete with a filler cushion to convert it into a comfortable double berth. While specific details of the galley and head are not extensively documented in general reviews, Cape Dory's tradition often included functional, if compact, arrangements designed for practicality and durability. The general finish quality typically involves robust construction materials, consistent with Cape Dory's reputation for solidity.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Cape Dory 270 for its classic aesthetics, solid construction, and dependable sailing characteristics. The spaciousness of the interior for its size is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage, enhancing comfort for short cruises.

As with any vessel of its age, potential issues can arise. One notable instance involved a newly purchased 1984 CD270 immediately taking on water upon launch, underscoring the importance of thorough pre-purchase inspections of the hull and through-hulls on older models. Additionally, engine problems are "not unheard of" for a boat approaching 40 years of age, suggesting that prospective buyers should factor in potential engine maintenance or replacement. Overall, the enduring quality of Cape Dory's solid fiberglass construction means that many 270s are still actively sailed and enjoyed, appealing to those who prioritize traditional lines, a sturdy build, and a sea-kindly ride.