1981 Cape Dory 36

$36,500

Used

Boat in Clinton US

builtBuilt in 1981
Year the boat was built
model

36

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Westerbeke)

Engine type and count
length

36 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Nominal Length
36ft
Length Overall
36.17ft
Beam
10.67ft
Max Draft
5ft
Hull Material
fiberglass
Engine 1
Engine Make
Westerbeke
Engine Model
Engine Fuel: diesel
Engine Hours
820
Fuel Type
diesel
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
4/15/26Initial price$36,500

Contact Yachts New England

38 Bayside Ave., Noank Village Boatyard, Noank, CT, 06340

Overview from around the web 1981 Cape Dory 36

Customers praise the 1981 Cape Dory 36 for its solid construction and classic design, highlighting its sturdy fiberglass hull and traditional full keel that provide excellent stability and seaworthiness

Many appreciate the spacious and well-laid-out interior, which offers comfortable accommodations for extended cruising. The boat is often noted for its reliable performance under sail, making it a favorite among bluewater sailors. Owners also commend the quality craftsmanship and timeless aesthetic that make the Cape Dory 36 both a practical and charming choice for serious sailors and weekend cruisers alike.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1981 Cape Dory 36 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its solid construction and traditional design. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:

Pros

Sturdy Construction: Built with a heavy-displacement hull and solid fiberglass, the Cape Dory 36 offers excellent durability and a reassuringly stable ride in various sea conditions.

Traditional Aesthetics: Its classic lines and full keel design appeal to sailors who appreciate timeless styling and a more traditional sailing experience.

Comfortable Interior: The layout provides ample space for extended cruising, including a well-equipped galley, comfortable berths, and good storage options.

Seaworthiness: Known for its ability to handle offshore passages, the Cape Dory 36 is favored by cruisers seeking a reliable boat for longer voyages.

Ease of Handling: The cutter rig setup offers versatile sail plans that make it easier to balance the boat and manage sails in different wind conditions.

Cons

Heavier Weight: The full keel and robust build contribute to a heavier displacement, which can result in slower speeds compared to lighter, more modern designs.

Less Maneuverable: The full keel design, while stable, reduces agility and can make tight maneuvering in marinas more challenging.

Older Systems: Being a 1981 model, some mechanical and electrical systems may require upgrades or maintenance to meet modern standards.

Limited Performance: The traditional hull shape and rigging prioritize comfort and safety over racing performance, so this boat is not designed for speed.

Maintenance Requirements: The classic design typically involves more upkeep, especially with wooden trim and older fittings that may need regular attention.

Made For

The 1981 Cape Dory 36 is ideal for sailors seeking a classic, well-built cruising sailboat that combines traditional craftsmanship with reliable performance. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a sturdy, comfortable vessel suited for coastal cruising, extended weekend trips, or even longer offshore passages. With its spacious interior and solid construction, the Cape Dory 36 appeals to both seasoned sailors and those looking to step up to a capable and timeless cruising sailboat.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1981 Cape Dory 36. 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 Sloop 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
$231.13/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 31,025
Total Payment$55,471.55

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1981 Cape Dory 36. 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 Sloop 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
$231.13/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 31,025
Total Payment$55,471.55

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Nominal Length
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Meet the Broker

Address

38 Bayside Ave.
Noank Village Boatyard
Noank, CT 06340

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