CAPE DORY 26
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 25.92 ft |
| LWL | 19.25 ft |
| Beam | 8 ft |
| Draft | 3.58 ft |
| Displacement | 5,300 lb |
| Ballast | 2,399.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.9 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 32 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 10.25 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 27.25 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 10.25 ft |
| FLforestay | 10.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 314.8 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 164 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 278.8 sq ft |
About the CAPE DORY 26
Also available with an inboard diesel (Cape Dory 26D)
Designed by Carl Alberg and built by Cape Dory Yachts (USA) from 1984–1986, the Cape Dory 26 is a compact, heavy-displacement cruiser with a production run of 78 hulls. Its full/long keel and high D/L ratio of 331.69 reflect a design philosophy prioritizing stability and seakeeping over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and couples seeking a safe, easy-to-handle package for weekend trips or short offshore passages, particularly those who value a protected cockpit and simple systems over high-performance sailing.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 5300.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.84, and a full/long keel, the Cape Dory 26 is well-suited for protected offshore cruising and short bluewater passages, though its size limits it to shorter open-ocean voyages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cape Dory 28 and the Tartan 27, as they share similar full-keel, heavy-displacement characteristics and target the same market of conservative cruisers seeking durability and comfort.
Performance
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 25.92ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
7 reported issues across 5 systems for the CAPE DORY 26, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CAPE DORY 26? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 7 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your CAPE DORY 26?
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Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Atomic 4, Universal — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the CAPE DORY 26
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