Cape Dory 25 vs Cape Dory 33
How do the Cape Dory 25 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.
Cape Dory 25 | Cape Dory 25 | Cape Dory 33 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 24.8 ft7.57 m | 33.0 ft10.07 m |
| Waterline length | 18.0 ft5.49 m | 24.5 ft7.47 m |
| Beam | 7.3 ft2.21 m | 10.3 ft3.12 m |
| Draft | 3.0 ft0.91 m | 4.8 ft1.47 m |
| Displacement | 4,000 lb1,814 kg | 13,300 lb6,033 kg |
| Ballast | 1,700 lb771 kg | 5,500 lb2,495 kg |
| Sail area | 262 ft²24.3 m² | 539 ft²50.1 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.64 | 15.36 |
| Displacement / Length | 306 | 404 |
| Comfort ratio | 22.0 | 34.2 |
| Capsize screening | 1.83 | 1.73 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.7 | 6.6 |
Cape Dory 25 vs Cape Dory 33: the short version
- The Cape Dory 33 is the larger boat at 33.0 ft10.07 m LOA versus 24.8 ft7.57 m for the Cape Dory 25.
- The Cape Dory 33 is heavier, displacing about 233% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Cape Dory 25 carries the more powerful rig (16.6 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 Cape Dory 33 rates better for offshore work (1.73 vs 1.83).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.