1981 Cape Dory 36
$36,500
Boat in Clinton US
36
1 Engine (Westerbeke)
36 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
THIS CAPE DORY CLASSIC IS A BEAUTY TO BE SEEN!
SHE HAS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED AND BOAT YARD SERVICED.
SHE IS POWERED WITH A WESTERBEKE DIESEL ENGINE INSTALLED IN 2013.
SHE IS CURRENTLY LOCATED IN CLINTON, CT
PLEASE CALL TODAY FOR DETAILS AND TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/15/26 | Initial price | $36,500 |
1981 Cape Dory 36 Video Tours
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.
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1981 Cape Dory 36 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,500 | $35,000 | $34,000 | $25,000 | $12,500 |
| Clinton | League City | Mandeville | Solomons | Toddville |
| 36' | 36' | - | - | - |
| 11' | - | - | - | - |
| 5' | - | - | - | - |
| Westerbeke | Perkins | - | - | - |
| - | 52 hp | - | - | - |
| 0 | 5 | 715 | 288 | 288 |
Meet the Broker

Address
Contact Yachts New England about 1981 Cape Dory 36
38 Bayside Ave., Noank Village Boatyard, Noank, CT, 06340




















