1983 Cape Dory 28

$24,000

Used

Boat in Ogunquit, ME 03907 US

builtBuilt in 1983
Year the boat was built
model

28

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (volvo)

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
28.17ft
Length at Waterline
22.25ft
Beam
8.83ft
Max Draft
4ft
Displacement
9000lb
Ballast
3500lb
Heads
1
Fresh Water Tanks
60gal
Fuel Tanks
13gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Engine 1
Engine Make
volvo
Engine Model
MD7A
Total Power
13hp
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
1983
Drive Type
direct
Accommodations

The finely crafted teak interior features...

FORWARD CABIN: V-berth with filler cushion, drawers under, two opening ports and an overhead hatch

HEAD:  runs athwartship aft of the Forward Stateroom with a marine toilet to port and vanity to starboard

MAIN CABIN: features port and starboard settees that double as sea berths, port pulls out to form a double berth. Outboard shelving, a bulkhead mounted fold-down dining table, a side table aft to starboard, and an overhead hatch.

GALLEY: located aft from port to starboard features a two-burner alcohol cooktop to port, storage compartments, a custom fitted cutting board, sink with F/W hand pump, and an ice box to starboard.  Engine access beneath galley counter/companionway steps.

Electrical Equipment
  • (2) 12V Group24 batteries
  • Xantrex XS400 sine wave inverter (2011)
  • Lights--main cabin 4 overhead, head 2 overhead, V berth 2 reading lights
  • 12v auto bilge pump
  • 12v cigarette type accessory plug
  • Blue Seas 12v breaker panel w/DC amp and DC volt gauges (2010)
  • Battery switch w/1, 2, both
Mechanical Equipment
  • Volvo Penta, MD 7B, 2cylinder, diesel, 17hp. Removed, rebuilt, repainted 2005, hours unknown but lightly used
  • Walter RV-10D direct mount 1.91:1 transmission
  • 404V Drive Saver
  • Volvo panel w/tach and water temp gauges
  • Morse MV-2 mechanical controls
  • 1" SS shaft with bronze 3 blade 13 X12 propeller
  • Groco bronze intake strainer
  • 12 gal aluminum fuel tank w/gauge
  • Racor fuel filter
  • Manual bilge pump in the cockpit
Sails & Rigging
  • Ullman Dacron mainsail with one reef (2005), lightly used
  • Ullman Dacron 150 Genoa with suncover (2005), lightly used
  • New headstay and Harken furling system (2005)
  • Mast rewired including new conduit (2005)
  • All halyards, lifelines, sheets, standing rigging, nav lights, VHF antenna replaced in 2005
  • Lazy jacks for main
  • 2 bz Lewmar #10 single speed sheet winches
  • 1 bz Lewmar #6 halyard winch
  • 4 part main sheet aft
  • Self tending club staysail jib w/original sails (not currently installed)
  • Masthead Windex
Deck Equipment
  • Ground Tackle: 25lb CQR with chain/rope rode, secondary danforth anchor w/ spare chain/rope rode 
  • (8) Bronze portlights w/ new gaskets (2011) and screens, (2) Bomar hatches
  • (2) Dorade vents
  • Tiller steering
  • Cockpit cushions
  • Swim ladder
  • LifeSling
  • Safeguard rescue throw line
  • Magma BBQ on the stern rail
Canvas
  • Gemini drop top dodger, Sunbrella Linen, Tenara thread, Makrolon windows, 316SS frame and hardware, side grab rails, aft grab rail (2011)
  • Cockpit awning (2011)
  • Bimini (2011)
  • Full Mooring Cover (2005)
Disclaimer

The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Price History

DateEventPrice
1/29/26Initial price$24,000

Overview from around the web 1983 Cape Dory 28

Customers appreciate the 1983 Cape Dory 28 for its classic design, solid construction, and reliable sailing performance

Many highlight its sturdy hull and traditional lines, which contribute to a comfortable and stable ride in various sea conditions. Owners often mention the boat's spacious interior for its size, with practical layout and ample storage, making it well-suited for weekend cruising or longer voyages. The Cape Dory 28’s easy handling and manageable sail plan are also frequently praised, appealing to both novice and experienced sailors. Overall, feedback emphasizes the boat’s timeless appeal and reputation as a dependable and enjoyable cruiser.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1983 Cape Dory 28 is a classic cruiser known for its solid construction and traditional design. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

Sturdy Build: Renowned for its robust fiberglass hull and quality craftsmanship, offering durability and longevity.

Classic Aesthetics: Timeless, traditional design with a charming, full keel and moderate displacement, appealing to sailors who appreciate classic styling.

Comfortable Interior: Well-laid-out cabin with practical accommodations for extended cruising, including a functional galley and ample storage.

Stable Handling: The full keel provides excellent tracking and stability, making it ideal for handling a variety of sea conditions.

Good for Coastal Cruising: Well-suited for coastal and nearshore cruising with manageable size and solid seaworthiness.

Cons

Moderate Speed: The full keel design and heavier displacement can result in slower speeds compared to more modern, lighter sailboats.

Limited Maneuverability: The full keel can make tight maneuvering in marinas or crowded anchorages more challenging.

Older Systems: Being a 1983 model, some onboard systems and equipment may require updating or maintenance.

Smaller Cabin Space: While comfortable, the interior space is more compact compared to newer boats in the same size range.

Limited Modern Amenities: Lacks some of the contemporary conveniences and technologies found on newer vessels.

Made For

The 1983 Cape Dory 28 is ideal for sailors seeking a classic, dependable cruiser with traditional lines and solid construction. Perfect for weekend getaways, coastal cruising, or those new to sailing who want a manageable, easy-to-handle boat. Its comfortable interior and seaworthy design also make it a great choice for couples or small families looking to enjoy extended time on the water.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1983 Cape Dory 28. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Sail Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Cape Dory cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$272.39/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 24,000
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1983 Cape Dory 28. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Sail Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Cape Dory cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$272.39/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 24,000
OR
%

Contact Sailboats Northeast

6 Cliff St, P. O. Box 924, Marblehead, MA, 01945

Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market

Get notified when new boats become available

Meet the Broker

Address

6 Cliff St
P. O. Box 924
Marblehead, MA 01945

Boat Location

Be the First to Know

Get notified when new boats become available.