Cape 30 (Hood) Information, Review, Specs

The Cape 30 (Hood) holds a reputation for being a dependable and manageable cruiser, capable of providing a secure experience for its owners on the water. Its design ethos combines Ted Hood's innovative approach with Cape Dory's commitment to durability, resulting in a vessel cherished by enthusiasts for its reliable performance and enduring quality.

The story of the Cape 30 (Hood) begins slightly before its official Cape Dory production. It was derived from the Naugus 30, a sailboat initially built in 1967 by Naugus Fiberglass Industries. The tooling for this vessel was later acquired by Cape Dory Yachts, leading to its reintroduction as the Cape 30 in 1972. This acquisition marked a unique chapter for Cape Dory, a builder founded by Andrew Vavolotis in 1963, known for its unwavering commitment to traditional designs, robust fiberglass construction, and a "sea-kindly motion". While many of Cape Dory's iconic models were the product of their prolific collaboration with Carl Alberg, the Cape 30 stood out as a design by Ted Hood, a celebrated innovator in yacht design and sailmaking.

Ted Hood's design philosophy often focused on creating efficient and capable yachts, encompassing everything from superyachts to racing vessels, with an emphasis on offshore capability. Although specific design goals for the Cape 30 (Hood) are not extensively documented, it aligns with Hood's broader aims of developing practical and well-performing boats. Cape Dory's manufacturing ethos, characterized by solid fiberglass laminates and a focus on durability, ensured that the Cape 30 was built to withstand the rigors of coastal cruising. There is no widely documented evidence of significant variations or mark changes during the model's production run, suggesting a consistent build throughout its initial availability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cape 30 (Hood) is not designed as a performance racer, a characteristic shared with many Cape Dory vessels. With a length overall of 30 feet but a waterline length of just 20.17 feet, she features significant overhangs, a hallmark of traditional yacht design that contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.56 indicates that she is not overpowered and will likely perform best in moderate to heavy air, rather than excelling in light wind conditions. The ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/D) of around 0.35 suggests a moderate degree of initial stability, providing a steady and predictable feel under sail. However, it's the displacement to length ratio (D/L), calculated to be extremely high (around 508), that truly defines her character. This high ratio, coupled with her short waterline, points to a heavy-displacement vessel designed for a comfortable and stable ride, prioritizing seaworthiness over speed.

Despite the and some sources listing a "fin keel", other accounts, particularly for early models, refer to a "full keel design" or a "full keel/cut-away forefoot," which is more consistent with Cape Dory's traditional build philosophy and the boat's high D/L ratio. Regardless of the precise classification, the keel design contributes to the boat's excellent directional stability and a sea-kindly motion. Owners consistently praise the Cape 30 (Hood) for being wonderfully balanced and easy to manage, even when sailing solo. While some may experience hard steering when reaching due to the design of the attached rudder, overall, the boat is considered weatherly and capable of handling brisk conditions effectively.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout of the Cape 30 (Hood) is less standardized, but generally, she offers a practical and robust interior consistent with a traditional cruising sailboat of her era. The interior is often described as "minimalist," appealing to those who appreciate a more spartan and functional approach to onboard living.

Typical layouts for a 30-foot cruiser of this vintage would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a small galley, and a head compartment. The finish quality is generally robust, with solid wood trim often complementing fiberglass surfaces, reflecting Cape Dory's commitment to durable construction. Storage is typically adequate for coastal cruising, distributed throughout the cabin in lockers and under berths. While the exact maximum headroom is not consistently specified, it is generally considered sufficient for a boat of its size, though possibly limited in certain areas. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening portlights. Some models may have offered variations in interior arrangements, such as a "B plan interior".

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cape 30 (Hood) frequently commend the boat for its solid construction and a comfortable motion in a seaway, reinforcing Cape Dory's reputation for building sturdy vessels. Many consider it a "manageable, durable cruiser" that is well-suited for coastal voyages and can be handled with relative ease, even single-handedly. The boat's inherent stability and weatherly performance are frequently cited as strong points, providing a sense of security on the water.

However, like many older vessels, the Cape 30 (Hood) can present certain common maintenance challenges. A recurring issue noted by owners can be the tendency for original deck fittings to develop leaks, often requiring re-bedding. Stuffing box leaks have also been mentioned as a potential concern. Some owners have reported instances of hard steering, particularly when reaching, which can be attributed to the design of the attached rudder with significant rake. Despite these typical challenges associated with older boats, the Cape 30 (Hood) continues to foster a dedicated community of owners who appreciate its timeless design and reliable performance.