Arco 33 vs Cape Dory 33
How do the Arco 33 and Cape Dory 33 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Arco 33 | Arco 33 | Cape Dory 33 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 33.0 ft10.06 m | 33.0 ft10.07 m |
| Waterline length | 23.3 ft7.09 m | 24.5 ft7.47 m |
| Beam | 9.8 ft3.00 m | 10.3 ft3.12 m |
| Draft | 6.5 ft1.98 m | 4.8 ft1.47 m |
| Displacement | 12,000 lb5,443 kg | 13,300 lb6,033 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 5,500 lb2,495 kg |
| Sail area | 550 ft²51.1 m² | 539 ft²50.1 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.79 | 15.36 |
| Displacement / Length | 426 | 404 |
| Comfort ratio | 33.8 | 34.2 |
| Capsize screening | 1.72 | 1.73 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.5 | 6.6 |
Arco 33 vs Cape Dory 33: the short version
- The Arco 33 and Cape Dory 33 are close in length (33.0 ft10.06 m vs 33.0 ft10.07 m ).
- The Cape Dory 33 is heavier, displacing about 11% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Arco 33 carries the more powerful rig (16.8 vs 15.4), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Cape Dory 33 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Arco 33 rates better for offshore work (1.72 vs 1.73).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.