Capri 16 vs Dolphin 17
How do the Capri 16 and Dolphin 17 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
| Capri 16 | Dolphin 17 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 16.5 ft5.03 m | 16.8 ft5.11 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 15.0 ft4.57 m |
| Beam | 6.9 ft2.11 m | 6.0 ft1.83 m |
| Draft | 2.4 ft0.74 m | 4.3 ft1.30 m |
| Displacement | 1,350 lb612 kg | 725 lb329 kg |
| Ballast | 425 lb193 kg | —— |
| Sail area | 138 ft²12.8 m² | 127 ft²11.8 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 18.08 | 25.18 |
| Displacement / Length | 162 | 96 |
| Comfort ratio | 10.0 | 6.6 |
| Capsize screening | 2.50 | 2.67 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 5.2 |
Capri 16 vs Dolphin 17: the short version
- The Capri 16 and Dolphin 17 are close in length (16.5 ft5.03 m vs 16.8 ft5.11 m ).
- The Capri 16 is heavier, displacing about 86% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Dolphin 17 carries the more powerful rig (25.2 vs 18.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Capri 16 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Capri 16 rates better for offshore work (2.50 vs 2.67).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.