Cape Dory 300 MS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Cape Dory 300 MS are defined by its categorization as a "50/50" motor sailer. With a displacement of approximately 11,500 pounds and a relatively modest sail area, it is not a light-air performer. However, when the breeze freshens to 12 knots or more, the boat stands up well to its canvas due to its generous beam and 3,500 pounds of internal ballast. The hull features a cutaway full keel and a protected rudder, which provides excellent directional stability and tracking, making it a relaxing vessel to helm on long coastal passages.

Under power, the 300 MS truly shines. Most hulls were equipped with a 46-horsepower Westerbeke diesel engine, which is considerably more power than one would find in a dedicated 30-foot sailboat. This allows the vessel to maintain hull speed even against significant headseas and wind. The dual-steering stations—a traditional pedestal in the cockpit and a second wheel inside the pilothouse—allow the skipper to transition seamlessly from open-air sailing to sheltered motoring. This versatility is frequently cited by owners in the Cape Dory Sailboat Owners Association as the boat's primary appeal, particularly for those cruising in the Pacific Northwest or the Maine coast where fog and rain are common.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Cape Dory 300 MS is designed around the concept of "upstairs/downstairs" living, a rarity in a vessel under 30 feet. The pilothouse serves as the social center, featuring the interior helm to starboard and a L-shaped settee with a folding table to port. Large wraparound windows provide nearly 360-degree visibility, a feature that transforms the onboard experience by connecting the interior directly to the seascape.

Moving forward and down a few steps, the layout reveals a surprisingly large galley and an enclosed head with a shower. The master cabin is located in the bow, featuring a traditional V-berth with an insert. While the boat was primarily produced in a single layout, the craftsmanship is consistent with the Cape Dory brand, utilizing extensive teak joinery and bronze opening ports that provide a sense of warmth and permanence. A closely related sibling is the Cape Dory 330, which utilized a similar motor sailer philosophy on a larger hull, offering an aft-cabin option that the 300 MS lacks.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Cape Dory 300 MS with a checklist focused on its unique mechanical and structural systems. Because this is a dual-station vessel, the steering linkage (typically cable or hydraulic) requires careful inspection for play or corrosion. The complexity of two steering positions introduces more failure points than a standard sailboat.

The pilothouse windows are a known area for potential leaks; as the original sealant ages, water can migrate into the balsa-cored cabin sides, leading to delamination if not addressed. Similarly, the deck hardware is often mounted through a cored deck, so check for "soft spots" around the stanchion bases and the windlass. The fuel tank, often made of aluminum and located deep in the bilge, should be inspected for "pitting" or galvanic corrosion, as replacement in these models can be a labor-intensive task requiring the removal of floorboards or furniture. Finally, ensure the Westerbeke engine's heat exchanger has been regularly serviced, as these larger engines generate significant heat within the enclosed engine space.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Cape Dory Sailboat Owners Association, which maintains an extensive archive of original brochures, manuals, and a "manual of modifications" contributed by long-time owners. This community is instrumental for those seeking to source original bronze hardware from Spartan Marine, the division founded by Andrew Vavolotis to supply Cape Dory with custom-cast components.

The Verdict

The Cape Dory 300 MS is a robustly built, specialized cruiser that excels in temperate or unpredictable climates. It trades raw sailing speed for unmatched protection and interior volume.

Pros:

• True all-weather capability with internal and external steering stations.
• Exceptional build quality and heavy-duty bronze portlights and hardware.
• The 11'5" beam provides interior space comparable to many 34-footers.
• Shallow draft allows for exploration of thin-water gunkholes.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds (under 10 knots).
• High windage due to the pilothouse profile can make docking challenging in a crosswind.
• Complex steering and engine systems compared to a simpler sloop.