Built during Cape Dory's heyday in the 1980s, this Mark II iteration refined the popular Cape Dory 30 design with thoughtful improvements that enhanced both performance and livability. Cape Dory earned its reputation building traditionally-styled cruisers that prioritized seaworthiness over racing performance, and the 30 Mk II exemplified this philosophy perfectly. This coastal cruiser features the classic Cape Dory aesthetic with attractive sheerlines and well-proportioned traditional styling that turns heads in any anchorage. The design emphasizes solid construction and conservative sailing characteristics, making it an excellent choice for couples or small families seeking reliable coastal exploration. The boat's moderate displacement and sensible sail plan provide predictable handling in varying conditions while maintaining enough performance to make passages enjoyable rather than laborious. Inside, the Mark II benefited from layout refinements that maximized the available space within the 30-foot waterline. Cape Dory's attention to joinery and interior details created accommodations that feel larger than the boat's modest size might suggest. For sailors prioritizing safety, comfort, and classic good looks over pure speed, the Cape Dory 30 Mk II represents solid value in the used boat market, particularly for those planning extended coastal cruising adventures.
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What is the Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.57. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii's comfort ratio?
The Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 27.16. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii safe for offshore sailing?
The Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.92. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii?
The theoretical hull speed of the Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii is 6.59 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii weigh?
The Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii has a displacement of 10,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 30.50 ft.
Who designed the Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii?
The Cape Dory 30 Mk Ii was designed by Clive M. Dent, first built in 1987.