Cape Dory 31 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Cape Dory 31 was part of the final wave of sailboat production from Cape Dory Yachts, manufactured from 1983 to 1985, with 89 units built. The Massachusetts-based builder, founded by Andrew Vavolotis in 1963, became synonymous with sturdy, full-keel fiberglass designs. The company's manufacturing ethos emphasized durable construction, often using solid, thick fiberglass layups for hulls and decks, a hallmark that contributes to the longevity of their vessels.

The design of the Cape Dory 31, like most of Cape Dory's iconic sailboats, was penned by the prolific Swedish-American naval architect Carl Alberg., 18] Alberg's philosophy centered on creating yachts with long, graceful overhangs, low freeboard, and inherent ease of handling, prioritizing a "sea-kindly motion" and stability over pure racing performance. The Cape Dory 31, configured as a cutter, exemplifies these principles, offering a versatile sail plan well-suited for various wind conditions. While some anecdotal reports suggest minor post-production modifications, such as additional ballast in a few units, there is no widespread evidence of significant factory variations like MkI/MkII versions during its relatively short production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cape Dory 31's design characteristics translate into a distinctive sailing profile. With a displacement of 11,500 pounds and a waterline length of 23.25 feet, the boat carries a very heavy displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 408. This indicates a vessel built for comfort and stability rather than speed, capable of handling challenging sea states with a comfortable motion. Her sail area to displacement ratio of about 15.85 suggests she is somewhat underpowered for very light air conditions, meaning she might require more wind to get moving briskly.

However, her robust ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 38% contributes significantly to her stiffness and excellent righting capabilities. Owners consistently report that the Cape Dory 31 is "not at all tender," standing up well to a breeze and offering a secure feel. Anecdotal evidence suggests the boat sails well with proper sail trim, tracks very effectively, and maintains a light and balanced helm, making for a pleasant sailing experience for a solid cruiser. She is described as a "solid cruiser" that is "stiff and seaworthy."

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its traditional exterior, the Cape Dory 31 offers an interior designed for comfortable cruising, though some owners have noted an "unconventional cabin layout." While specific headroom figures are not available, Cape Dory boats are generally known for making efficient use of their interior volume. Typically, the layout would feature a classic V-berth forward, followed by a marine head, often to port or starboard. The main salon usually consists of settees both to port and starboard, which may convert into berths, and a fold-down or fixed table. The galley, often located aft, would include a sink, stove, and icebox, though amenities could vary. Storage is generally ample, with lockers and shelves throughout. The interior finish often features traditional wood trim and joinery, consistent with Cape Dory's classic aesthetic, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. While specific ventilation details would vary by boat and owner modifications, the design typically includes overhead hatches and opening ports for airflow.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cape Dory 31 frequently praise its unwavering build quality and the secure, sea-kindly motion it provides. They consistently highlight the boat's solid construction, which offers a sense of confidence and safety, particularly in adverse conditions. The boat's ability to track well and maintain a balanced helm is also a common point of appreciation, contributing to its reputation as an easy boat to manage for its size.

However, a recurring issue noted by some owners is the tendency for leaks to develop from the integral tankage, often requiring attention and re-bedding to resolve. Despite this, the general consensus among the owner community, active in various online forums, remains highly positive, underscoring the enduring appeal and robust nature of the Cape Dory 31 as a classic cruising sailboat.