Cape Dory 36 Kth Information, Review, Specs

The Cape Dory 36 Kth entered production in 1978 and continued to be built until 1990, with 165 units launched during this period. The vessel's design is attributed to Carl Alberg, a Swedish-American naval architect famed for his philosophy of creating sailboats with elegant, long overhangs, low freeboard, and an inherent ease of handling. Cape Dory Yachts, under the leadership of Andrew Vavolotis, was known for its robust construction methods, utilizing solid, thick fiberglass layups that ensured the vessels' seaworthiness and longevity. This manufacturing ethos, coupled with a steadfast commitment to full-keel designs, defined the brand's identity and contributed to the 36 Kth's reputation for directional stability and a comfortable motion in various sea states. The ketch rig (indicated by "Kth" in the model name) provided versatile sail plans for offshore work. No significant variations or marks (e.g., MkI, MkII) were noted for the Cape Dory 36 Kth during its production run, maintaining a consistent design throughout its build years.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cape Dory 36 Kth is characterized by its heavy displacement and full-keel design, which significantly influences its sailing characteristics. With a displacement of 16,100 lbs and a waterline length of 27.0 feet, the boat has a high Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 365, classifying it as a heavy, traditional cruiser. This heavy build contributes to a stable and comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing security over blistering speed.

The Sail Area to Displacement ratio, calculated at around 12.86, suggests that the 36 Kth is not a dedicated light-air performer. Instead, its substantial sail area of 513.75 sq ft is designed to move its considerable mass efficiently, particularly in stronger winds, rather than for competitive light-wind racing. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 0.376, combined with the full keel, provides good initial stability and an excellent righting capability, allowing the boat to stand up to heavy weather. Owners often praise its "forgiving design" and describe it as "stable / stiff" and having "an excellent righting capability if capsized." While its full keel provides exceptional tracking and a sea-kindly ride, it also means that backing under power can be challenging, a common characteristic of full-keel designs. Overall, the Cape Dory 36 Kth is regarded as a great sailing boat for those who appreciate a solid, steady motion and robust handling in a variety of conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Cape Dory 36 Kth are not extensively documented, Cape Dory yachts of this era were known for their practical and traditional interiors, reflecting the builder's focus on robust construction and seaworthiness. Reviews and owner accounts suggest a "simple, but elegant interior" that emphasizes functionality for extended cruising.

Typically, a sailboat of the 36-foot class from Cape Dory would feature a traditional layout comprising a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a comfortable salon with opposing settees that often convert to berths, and a well-appointed galley. Storage would be ample, with lockers and shelves integrated throughout the cabin. The use of high-quality wood trim and robust fiberglass components would be characteristic, contributing to a warm, classic aesthetic and ensuring durability. Ventilation would likely be provided through opening ports and overhead hatches. While specific headroom figures are not available, Cape Dory aimed for comfortable living spaces within their traditional hull forms.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently hold the Cape Dory 36 Kth in high regard, frequently describing it as a "fantastic boat" that is "attractive, seakindly, well built." The boat's solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway are among its most frequently praised attributes, reinforcing Cape Dory's reputation for building durable and reliable vessels. Many owners appreciate the "sturdy build" that instills confidence when offshore.

While generally considered to have "few serious problems as a class," some recurring issues have been noted. Owners advise checking for signs of deck delamination, a potential concern with balsa-cored decks, though not a common problem. Chainplate issues have also been mentioned by owners, with various solutions and discussions available on dedicated Cape Dory owner forums. Some owners have observed more gelcoat cracks on Cape Dorys compared to other brands. Additionally, the full keel, while excellent for tracking, can make maneuvering in reverse a challenge. Despite these minor considerations, the strong sense of community among Cape Dory owners and the enduring quality of the 36 Kth underscore its status as a cherished classic cruiser.