CAPE DORY 31
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 31.33 ft |
| LWL | 23.25 ft |
| Beam | 9.75 ft |
| Draft | 4.75 ft |
| Displacement | 11,500 lb |
| Ballast | 4,350.4 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 41 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 13.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 35 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 13 ft |
| FLforestay | 13.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 522.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 276.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 470.5 sq ft |
About the CAPE DORY 31
Designed by Carl Alberg and built by Cape Dory Yachts (USA) from 1983–1985, the Cape Dory 31 is a robust, full-keel cutter with a production run of 89 hulls. Its heavy displacement of 11500.0 lb and high comfort ratio of 33.34 reflect a design philosophy prioritizing stability and seakeeping over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideally suited for coastal cruisers and conservative bluewater passagemakers who value safety, comfort, and ease of single-handed handling over high-performance sailing.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.73 and a D/L ratio of 408.49, the Cape Dory 31 is highly capable offshore, offering exceptional stability and a proven track record for safe, comfortable long-distance cruising.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Cape Dory 36 and 33, which share the same Alberg design lineage and full-keel stability, as well as the Tartan 31 and O'Day 32, which offer similar displacement and cabin layouts from the same era.
Performance
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 31.33ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
14 reported issues across 9 systems for the CAPE DORY 31, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CAPE DORY 31? 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 14 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
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Used sails that fit the CAPE DORY 31
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