Cape Dory 22 vs Tanzer 22
How do the Cape Dory 22 and Tanzer 22 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Cape Dory 22 
Tanzer 22 | Cape Dory 22 | Tanzer 22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 22.3 ft6.81 m | 22.4 ft6.83 m |
| Waterline length | 16.3 ft4.95 m | 19.8 ft6.02 m |
| Beam | 7.3 ft2.23 m | 7.8 ft2.39 m |
| Draft | 3.0 ft0.91 m | 3.4 ft1.04 m |
| Displacement | 3,200 lb1,451 kg | 2,900 lb1,315 kg |
| Ballast | 1,400 lb635 kg | 1,250 lb567 kg |
| Sail area | 240 ft²22.3 m² | 225 ft²20.9 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.68 | 17.70 |
| Displacement / Length | 333 | 168 |
| Comfort ratio | 19.3 | 14.1 |
| Capsize screening | 1.99 | 2.20 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.4 | 6.0 |
Cape Dory 22 vs Tanzer 22: the short version
- The Cape Dory 22 and Tanzer 22 are close in length (22.3 ft6.81 m vs 22.4 ft6.83 m ).
- The Cape Dory 22 is heavier, displacing about 10% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Tanzer 22 carries the more powerful rig (17.7 vs 17.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Cape Dory 22 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Cape Dory 22 rates better for offshore work (1.99 vs 2.20).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.