1980 Cape Dory 30 Boat in Riverside, RI 02915 US
Built in 1980
30
1 Engine (Nanni)
30 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Classic Cape Dory 30 Cutter - Beautifully Maintained & Ready to Cruise
This Cape Dory 30 Cutter is a particularly well-kept example of a classic New England cruising sailboat, with a beautifully maintained interior and a thoughtful collection of cruising upgrades. Her low-hour Nanni 250 HE diesel was installed as a replacement for the original raw-water-cooled engine and was refurbished prior to installation, including servicing of the cooling system, raw-water pump, fluids, filters, belt and valve clearances.
The boat received a major refit in 2014, and more recent improvements include refinished interior woodwork, dripless shaft seals, a replacement Lewmar windlass, and largely renewed running rigging. A Norvane windvane provides reliable self-steering for extended passages-a system that proved its worth when she was cruised from Boston to St. Croix in 2015.
With a cutter rig, good tankage, windvane self-steering, propane galley, refrigeration, solar, and a well-equipped cruising interior, she is a capable and comfortable platform for coastal cruising and longer passages. The electronics and some of the sails are older, but the boat's overall condition and equipment reflect a long history of thoughtful ownership and maintenance.
Key Features
- Low-hour Nanni 250 HE 14 HP diesel, refurbished prior to installation, with heat exchanger
- Beautifully maintained and updated interior with wood trim refinished in 2025
- Norvane windvane self-steering system for offshore and long-distance cruising
- Dripless shaft seals for both propeller shaft (2025) and rudder shaft (2018)
- Lewmar Pro-Series 1000 electric windlass (2020)
- Major refit work in 2014, including barrier coat, chainplate hardware, bow structure and pulpit work
- Harken headsail furler and largely renewed running rigging
- 65W solar panel
- 35-gallon holding tank and 60 gallons of fresh water
- Dodger and custom boom-mounted sun cover
- ACR GlobalFix EPIRB and Lifesling
- 8.8' WaterTender rowing dinghy
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.
Accommodations
Number of Single Berths: 2
Number of Double Berths: 1
Number of Cabins: 1
Number of Heads: 1
Mechanical:
Engine Brand/model/Year : Nanni 250 HE, 14 HP
Engine Hours: <100
Propeller: 13” 2-bladed prop
Drive Type: V-drive transmission
Service history: reportedly low hours, refurbished prior to installation. New fluids, filters, belt and gauge panel; valve adjustment; heat exchanger inspection; rebuilt raw-water pump; fresh paint. Test-run to operating temperature.
Tanks
Fresh Water Tanks: 2 (30 gal each)
Fuel Tanks: 1 (20 gal) – Fuel Polished 2026
Holding Tanks: 1 (35 gal)
Rigging
Standing Rigging Age:
Forestay/Backstay – Original
Sides stays / 2009
Main Stays / 2014
Bobstay / 2017
Running Rigging Age: Various/All replaced in the last 5-10years
Furler: Harken
Winches:
2x Lewmar #40 two speed cockpit for jib sheets
2x Lewmar #6 on mast for haylards
2x Lewmar #6 in cockpit for mainsheet and staysail sheet
Sails
Scott Mainsail, Fair Condition, 2006
Yankee Jib: Good condition, 2006
Asymmetrical Spinnaker with Sock: 10yrs/ Good Condition
Stay-sail: Unknown / Good Condition
Storm-jib: 10 years / Excellent condition
Canvas - Year:
Dodger: 2016
Custom sun-cover hung over boom
Outside Equipment
Anchor Brand/type, size-weight: 35lb CQR
Fortress Mud Anchor
Rode: Chain / 5/16”180ft
Windlass: Lewmar Pro Series 1000
Cockpit Cushions
Cockpit table:
Swimming Ladder
Mast steps
Electronics
Compass: Ritchie / Rebuilt 2026
GPS: Raymarine / C70 /2009
VHF: Apelco/ VHF 8500
Radar: Raymarine / C70 / 2009
Depthsounder: Standard Horizon
Speedometer: Standard Horizon
Stereo: Clarion AM/FM Radio and CD player
Electrical Equipment Brand/Size/Year
Batteries: 1 Starting Battery / 1 House battery (2x 6V in series) ~250Ah
Battery Charger: Xantrex True-Charge Multi-stage
Inverter: Xantrex Prowatt Inverter
Shore Power Inlet: 1x 120V inlet
Solar: 1x 65W Rigid Panel
Wind: Air-breeze with Silent wind blue blade retrofit (generator not installed)
Additional Inside equipment:
Plumbing: Trident Marine Sanitation Hoses
Galley: Two burner propane stove with oven
Refrigeration: Adler Barber
Safety Equipment:
EPIRB: ACR GlobalFix Category 2 EPIRB
Man overboard recovery devices: Life-Sling
Spares:
Norvane Windvane – Spares Vanes, Pulleys and Bearings
Additional:
Watertender 8.8 Rowing dinghy
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 9/4/26 | Initial price | $29,000 |
Overview from around the web 1980 Cape Dory 30
Customers are consistently praising the 1980 Cape Dory 30 for its robust construction and classic design
Many owners appreciate its seaworthiness, noting that the boat handles rough waters exceptionally well, making it ideal for both coastal cruising and offshore adventures. The classic lines and traditional aesthetic draw admiration, giving it a timeless appeal. Additionally, users highlight the spacious layout and functional interiors, which make it comfortable for weekend getaways or longer trips. The attention to detail in the craftsmanship, particularly in the woodwork and fittings, is often mentioned as a strong point, contributing to a comfortable onboard experience. Sailing performance is another area where the Cape Dory 30 receives positive feedback. Owners describe it as responsive and stable, providing a rewarding sailing experience. Overall, the 1980 Cape Dory 30 is seen as a reliable and well-loved vessel that combines a strong heritage with practical sailing capabilities.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1980 Cape Dory 30 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its traditional design and sturdy construction. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Sturdy Construction: The Cape Dory 30 is built with a solid fiberglass hull, providing durability and a sense of security while sailing.
Timeless Design: The traditional aesthetics of the Cape Dory 30 appeal to many sailors, featuring a classic silhouette and beautiful woodwork in the interior.
Good Performance: With a moderate displacement and a fin keel, this sailboat offers decent sailing performance, particularly in coastal cruising scenarios.
Accommodating Interior: The layout usually provides sufficient headroom and comfortable sleeping arrangements, making it suitable for weekend getaways or longer voyages.
Easy Handling: The size and design make it manageable for a small crew or even a single-handed sailor, allowing for easy maneuverability in various conditions.
Timeless Appeal: Many sailors appreciate the Cape Dory's reputation and the community around these boats, fostering a sense of camaraderie among owners.
Cons
Age: Being a 1980 model, some boats may require significant maintenance or upgrades, and the condition can vary widely based on previous ownership and care.
Limited Space: While the interior is cozy, some may find it tight for long-term living or for larger crews, with limited storage and galley space.
Outdated Features: Compared to modern designs, the 1980 Cape Dory 30 may lack some contemporary conveniences and technological advancements found in newer boats.
Performance Limitations: While it's a capable cruiser, it may not compete with newer models in terms of speed and performance, particularly in light wind conditions.
Rigging and Sails: Depending on the condition and age of the rigging and sails, these components may need to be upgraded or replaced, adding to the initial costs for new owners.
Market Availability: The availability of this specific model can vary, and finding one in good condition may take time and effort.
Made For
The 1980 Cape Dory 30 is designed for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate classic lines, robust construction, and a reliable performance on the water. Ideal for both new and experienced sailors, this versatile vessel caters to individuals or small families looking to enjoy day sailing or longer coastal journeys. With its spacious layout, including a comfortable cabin and ample storage, it’s perfect for those who enjoy weekend getaways or extended cruising. The Cape Dory 30 is also well-suited for those who value craftsmanship; its traditional design and solid build offer both aesthetic appeal and durability, ensuring a trustworthy vessel for years to come. Additionally, it appeals to recreational sailors who favor a manageable size that still provides a stable and comfortable ride in various conditions. Whether you're a weekend warrior or an aspiring cruiser, the Cape Dory 30 brings together a rich maritime heritage and a sense of adventure.
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 1980 Cape Dory 30 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $29,000 | $33,000 | $22,000 | $39,500 | $18,500 | $14,950 |
| Location | Riverside | East Greenwich | Tiverton | North Kingstown | Riverside | Warwick |
| Nominal Length | 30' | 30' | 30' | 30' | 30' | 32' |
| Beam | 9' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Draft | 4' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Nanni | - | - | Universal | - | Universal |
| Total Engine Power | 14 hp | - | - | 30 hp | - | 20 hp |
| Days on Market | 21 | 40 | 382 | 360 | 38 | 7 |
| Get in touch |
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Boat Location
Contact The Cruising Yacht Brokerage, LLC about 1980 Cape Dory 30
101 Narragansett Ave, Barrington, RI, 02806
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