The Allure of the Cape Dory 33: A Classic Sailboat

When it comes to sailboats, few evoke the same sense of nostalgia and timeless elegance as the Cape Dory 33. Designed by the legendary Carl Alberg and first produced in 1982, this sloop-rigged beauty has captured the hearts of sailors around the world with its classic lines, sturdy construction, and excellent sailing performance.

Design and Construction

The Cape Dory 33 is a true masterpiece of design and construction. With a displacement of 6033 kg (13300 lb) and a ballast system weight of 2495 kg (5500 lb), this sailboat offers exceptional stability and seaworthiness. Its beam width of 3.12 meters (10 feet and 3 inches) provides ample space on deck, while the boat's maximum draft of 1.47 meters (4 feet and 10 inches) allows for smooth sailing even in shallow waters.

The hull of the Cape Dory 33 is made of fiberglass, a material known for its durability and strength. The boat's overall length (LOA) is 10.06 meters (33.00 feet), with a length of waterline (L.W.L) of 7.47 meters (24 feet and 6 inches). The bridge clearance (BC) of the Cape Dory 33 is 14.48 meters (47 feet and 6 inches), making it suitable for navigating under most bridges without any issues.

Performance and Handling

Despite its classic design, the Cape Dory 33 offers excellent performance on the water. Its sail track and slide system ensure smooth and efficient sail handling, while the Doyle sails are in excellent condition, providing optimal power and speed. The Dutchman sail control system makes reefing and furling a breeze, allowing for easy adjustments in various wind conditions.

The Cape Dory 33 is equipped with a M35B engine manufactured by Universal in 2004, with 1,120 hours of use. The engine is inboard and features a direct drive system, providing reliable and efficient power for both cruising and maneuvering in tight spaces.

Features and Amenities

The Cape Dory 33 is not just a capable sailboat; it also offers a range of features and amenities to enhance the sailing experience. The interior of the boat boasts a new sink faucet, a combination microwave oven, and a stainless steel sink. The V-berth and aft quarter berth have new cushions, providing a comfortable space for resting after a long day of sailing.

On deck, the Cape Dory 33 is equipped with an array of deck hardware, including self-tailing bronze Lewmar winches, a self-tailing Andersen mainsail halyard winch, and a new Kato dinghy davit system installed in 2020. The boat also features new Bowmar Ocean Series hatches, providing ample ventilation and natural light in the cabin.

Electrical and Electronic Systems

The Cape Dory 33 is equipped with a range of electronic and electrical systems to ensure a safe and comfortable sailing experience. The boat features a Xantrex 1000-watt inverter, two 30-amp shore power connections, and three group 31 AGM batteries for reliable power supply. Additionally, the boat has a dedicated 30-amp connection for the Mermaid air conditioner, ensuring optimal comfort in all weather conditions.

General Information

The Cape Dory 33 is a pre-owned (used) sailboat located in Oriental, North Carolina. It runs on diesel fuel and has a selling price of $55,000 USD. The boat was first produced in 1982 and has since become a beloved classic among sailing enthusiasts.

Specifications Table

Deck Hardware

• Self-tailing bronze Lewmar winches
• Self-tailing Andersen mainsail halyard winch
• New Kato dinghy davit system in 2020
• New Bowmar Ocean Series hatches
• New barrier coat and bottom paint in June 2020
• 60 feet of chain with 150 feet of rode

Electronical and Electrical Info

• Xantrex 1000 watt inverter
• Two 30 amp shore power connections
• Three group 31 AGM batteries
• One dedicated 30 amp to Mermaid air conditioner
• New 110VAC nav station outlet
• All new LED lighting in mast

Engine and Power Specs

• Engine Drive: Direct Drive
• Engine Location: Inboard
• Engine Series: M35B with 1,120 hours
• Engine manufacturer: 2004 Universal

Interior Specifications

• New sink faucet
• Combination microwave oven

Other Equipments

• V-berth and aft quarter berth have new cushions
• Ten bronze ports all with new gaskets
• Stainless steel sink
• Six-gallon water heater
• Nova Kool refrigeration
• New transducer depth sounder
• New domestic water pump
• Manual flush marine head
• Harken roller furler
• Flip-up wooden counter extender
• Dripless shaft
• Double stainless steel sink
• Custom propane locker
• Custom cockpit access hatch
• Cockpit cushions in excellent condition
• Autopilot Wheelpilot band replaced
• All new wiring
• 2008 Avon by Zodiac dinghy Redcrest

Sailing Features

• Strong sail track and slide system
• Replaced stern tube and shaft
• Dutchman sail control
• Doyle sails in excellent condition

Pros and cons of Cape Dory 33

Reviews of Cape Dory 33 owners