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Sailboat Specifications

Cape Dory 30K

Masthead Ketch · Full Keel

Designed by Carl Alberg · Built by Cape Dory Yachts (Usa) · First built 1976

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LOA 30.21 ft  ·  Beam 9.00 ft  ·  Displacement 10,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 434.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Ketch  ·  Full Keel
About the Cape Dory 30K Sailboat

Carl Alberg's thoughtful design philosophy shines through in the Cape Dory 30K, a masthead ketch that exemplifies traditional cruising sailboat virtues. Built by Cape Dory Yachts starting in 1976, this 30-footer carries the DNA of classic New England workboats while offering modern cruising capabilities. The full keel configuration provides exceptional directional stability and forgiveness in heavy weather, making this an ideal platform for serious coastal cruising and offshore passages. With 10,000 pounds of displacement and 4,000 pounds of ballast positioned low in the full keel, the boat offers reassuring stability and sea-kindly motion. The comfortable 33.06 comfort ratio and excellent 1.67 capsize screening value reflect Alberg's emphasis on seaworthiness over racing performance. The ketch rig configuration provides versatility in sail handling, allowing crews to easily balance the boat in varying conditions by adjusting the main and mizzen combination. This setup proves particularly valuable during extended cruising when shorthanded sailing becomes necessary. Hull speed reaches 6.40 knots, perfectly adequate for relaxed passage-making. Cape Dory built these boats with solid fiberglass construction, earning a reputation for durability that has served owners well over decades. The 30K represents an excellent choice for sailors prioritizing comfort, safety, and traditional sailing character over speed.

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The hull-to-deck joint is bonded with polyester putty but not through-bolted. If the adhesive bond deteriorates, there is no mechanical backup holding the joint together. Inspect the joint from inside the hull for any signs of separation or weeping.
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Balsa-cored deck areas — especially the foredeck and cockpit sole — are prone to delamination and water saturation around hardware penetrations. Stanchion bases have washers but no backing plates from the factory, accelerating core damage under load.
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Chainplate backing plates were made of mild steel during a portion of the production run and corrode badly behind the fiberglass. Look for rust streaks, flaking, or bulges in the laminate around chainplate attachment points.
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 30.21 ft / 9.21 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.83 ft / 6.96 m
Beam 9.00 ft / 2.74 m
Max Draft 4.17 ft / 1.27 m
Displacement 10,000.00 lb / 4,536 kg
Ballast 4,000.00 lb / 1,814 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 434.00 ft² / 40.32 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Full Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Ketch
Construction FG
Designer Carl Alberg
Builder Cape Dory Yachts (USA)
First Built 1976
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Volvo
Engine Model MD7A
Engine Type diesel
Horsepower 13
Fuel Capacity 20 gals / 76 L
Water Capacity 60 gals / 227 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cape Dory 30K's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Cape Dory 30K has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.01. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Cape Dory 30K's comfort ratio?

The Cape Dory 30K has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.06. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Cape Dory 30K safe for offshore sailing?

The Cape Dory 30K has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.67. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Cape Dory 30K?

The theoretical hull speed of the Cape Dory 30K is 6.40 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Cape Dory 30K weigh?

The Cape Dory 30K has a displacement of 10,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 30.21 ft.

Who designed the Cape Dory 30K?

The Cape Dory 30K was designed by Carl Alberg, first built in 1976.