Description
The Cape Dory 300 MS is a 29.85 ft (9.1 m) monohull motor Sailer designed by Clive M. Dent and built by Cape Dory Yachts between 1985 and 1990, with 47 units produced. Combining sailing capability with motor Sailer functionality, it features a full keel (lead ballast, 4,500 lbs.) for stability and a masthead sloop rig with a sail area of 442 sq.ft. (41.06 m²). Its fiberglass hull, moderate displacement (11,500 lbs.), and shallow draft (3.92 ft) allow access to shallow anchorages, ideal for coastal cruising. The boat is powered by a Westerbeke W-46 diesel engine (46 HP) with a 50-gallon fuel capacity, achieving a theoretical hull speed of 6.9–7.4 knots.
Key features include a fully enclosed pilothouse for all-weather sailing, with all lines led to the cockpit for easy handling, and a spacious aft cockpit. The interior offers a V-berth, head, U-shaped dinette, galley, and ample storage, with 75 gallons of freshwater capacity. Its ballast/displacement ratio (39.1%) ensures stiffness, but a capsize screening formula of 2.02 and comfort ratio of 25.0–25.22 indicate it’s best suited for coastal cruising rather than ocean passages. The sail area/displacement ratio (13.93–15.0) suggests it’s slightly underpowered, prioritizing stability over speed.
Praised for its versatility, the 300 MS excels for cruising couples, offering a balance of sailing performance and motoring reliability. Its low maintenance fiberglass hull and thoughtful design make it ideal for extended coastal adventures, though it’s less agile in tight harbors due to the long keel.
