Cape Cod (Rosewest) Information, Review, Specs

The Rosewest Cape Cod 896 began production in 2012, emerging from the Rosewest shipyard, which was founded by Hervé Nollet in 2004. Nollet, an industrial designer by training, established Rosewest with a vision to create exceptional vessels that harmonized traditional boatbuilding techniques with modern advancements. The shipyard, which relocated to Bordeaux, France, in 2007, meticulously preserves traditional teak work while embracing modern composites in its construction.

The design philosophy behind the Cape Cod, shared by both Nollet and Salzes, emphasizes a distinctive aesthetic inspired by traditional sailing yachts, notably featuring a vertical bow and a streamlined hull. This blend ensures both enduring beauty and structural integrity, resulting in a yacht that is genuinely different in the marine industry. The hull itself is constructed from various layers of polyester and vinylester resin, reflecting a modern approach to durable and lightweight construction. A notable design innovation for the Cape Cod 896 is its fully retractable keel and retractable bowsprit, enhancing both performance and shallow-water accessibility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Rosewest Cape Cod 896, with a length overall of 29.4 feet and a waterline length of 23.25 feet, is characterized by its exceptionally light displacement of 3197 lbs and a modest ballast of 1036 lbs. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/Disp) is approximately 29.48, which is a very high number. This suggests that the Cape Cod is designed for excellent performance in light winds, enabling it to accelerate quickly and maintain speed even in marginal conditions.

The Ballast to Displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 32.4% indicates a moderate level of stiffness. While not designed to be an extreme offshore racer that stands up to every gust, it offers a balanced feel, allowing for comfortable and controlled sailing, particularly given its day-sailing purpose. The Displacement to Length ratio (Disp/LWL) is exceptionally low, approximately 113.3, classifying the Cape Cod as a very light, performance-oriented boat, akin to a high-end sportboat or agile day-racer.

Qualitative descriptions of the Cape Cod's handling consistently highlight its agility and sleek sailing characteristics. Owners and reviewers often praise its high-performance features, which, combined with its lightweight build and efficient sail plan, contribute to a smooth and responsive experience on the water. Its design, including the option of a retractable keel, allows for versatile sailing in various conditions and enhances its appeal as a transportable dayboat.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated day-sailer, the Rosewest Cape Cod 896 features an open-cockpit design, prioritizing the sailing experience and social interaction on deck. The cockpit is notably adaptable, including a "clever pop-up cockpit table" for entertaining guests or dining al fresco.

Despite its primary function as a dayboat, the Cape Cod 896 does offer a "small, livable sailboat" cabin forward, providing a forward accessible space for essential storage. This cabin can also convert to "two berths for a nap or overnight," offering basic overnighting capabilities for short excursions. While detailed interior layouts regarding a full galley or head were not prominent in search results, the focus remains on comfortable and functional space suitable for a dayboat, with attention given to efficient storage within the cabin. The overall finish, consistent with Rosewest's reputation, is likely a blend of modern composites with traditional teak accents, emphasizing luxury and high craftsmanship.