The Cape Cutter 19 design originates from the classic old gaff cutter work boats and successfully combines old world charm with advancements in construction, performance and comfort. As a modern design she is faster than many of her contemporaries, and, because of lead ballast, stiffer in a blow.
The Cape Cutter 19 boasts a high peaked gaff cutter rig. She is a lively performer due to her wide stern section, slippery underwater shape and large but manageable sail area.
The light weight genoa provides for performance sailing in light airs whilst the heavier working jib (hank on- although many owners have converted this to roller furling, in or out) offers an efficient sail set in stronger winds.
The cutter rig provides versatility and can be sailed with mainsail and one or two foresails flying. A yankee sail, with a high cut foot is also available as an optional replacement sail change to the genoa.
The Cape Cutter 19 can be easily single handed – all the sail handling can be managed from the cockpit as all lines lead aft. The genoa is on a furler (in or out) with thecontrol line led to the cockpit. The inboard working jib is hank on with a downhaul as standard, although many owners have also converted this to roller furling. The mainsail has two reefing points which can be tied in from the companionway step, with lines lead along the boom (no need to go on deck). The mainsail can be lowered from thecockpit as the halyards, throat and peak, are lead aft through jammers and a winch onthe cabin console to the cockpit. For ease and convenience, the gaff is controlled by lazy jacks. The main sheet is lead through a jamming block on the transom.
Drawing only 45 cm with the centerboard lifted, the Cape Cutter 19’s shallow draft makes her ideal for exploring estuaries and anchoring in minimal depths. Bilge runners enable her to dry out safely. (She could be kept in a mud berth if required). Weighing in at just over a ton, she is within the towing range of a medium to large family car. Her shallow draft and full length keel make it easy to get her on and off her trailer.
With 4 berths and a roomy cockpit for her size, the Cape Cutter 19 is an ideal cruiser for couples, families and friends to get away. She has a full size V berth forward and 2 full length quarter berths aft. The quarter berths double as saloon seats. The galley area comprises space for a single burner stove – perfect for a cup of tea under way or simple meals aboard, with a sink area opposite. Storage is provided beneath the berths and cockpit. Cockpit lockers stow fenders and fuel tank. There is a dedicated space for a porta potti. The large, self draining, sea kindly cockpit is dry and comfortable. At 1.95 m long and 50 cm wide, the cockpit seats are big enough to stretch out on and nap under the stars.
One of the unique features of the Cape Cutter is its stability, and ease of being trailed, launched and recovered.
The stability of the Cape Cutter for its size is exceptional as seen right in the stability curve. The mast could touch the water but still have enough stability to right itself. This can be attributed to the use of a cast iron centre plate and 230Kg of lead deep down in the hull.
As a result for both experienced sailors and families the Cape Cutter 19 is an excellent, safe vessel to own.
