Cape Dory 25D vs Cape Dory 33
How do the Cape Dory 25D 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 25D | Cape Dory 25D | Cape Dory 33 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 25.0 ft7.62 m | 33.0 ft10.07 m |
| Waterline length | 19.0 ft5.79 m | 24.5 ft7.47 m |
| Beam | 8.0 ft2.44 m | 10.3 ft3.12 m |
| Draft | 3.5 ft1.07 m | 4.8 ft1.47 m |
| Displacement | 5,120 lb2,322 kg | 13,300 lb6,033 kg |
| Ballast | 2,050 lb930 kg | 5,500 lb2,495 kg |
| Sail area | 304 ft²28.2 m² | 539 ft²50.1 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.37 | 15.36 |
| Displacement / Length | 333 | 404 |
| Comfort ratio | 23.8 | 34.2 |
| Capsize screening | 1.86 | 1.73 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.8 | 6.6 |
Cape Dory 25D vs Cape Dory 33: the short version
- The Cape Dory 33 is the larger boat at 33.0 ft10.07 m LOA versus 25.0 ft7.62 m for the Cape Dory 25D.
- The Cape Dory 33 is heavier, displacing about 160% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Cape Dory 25D carries the more powerful rig (16.4 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 1.86).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.