DufourBoats, models and buyer's guide

French sail yacht builder strongly connected to the comfortable sailing cruiser segment. The Grand Large name is known from previous generations; the subsequent Dufour-series build on this with modern formats. Choosing a boat is more than comparing by length and price. With Dufour play the design, the available equipment and your daily way of sailing together.

What sets Dufour apart among sailing yachts?

Dufour– yachts stand out due to the combination of sailing pleasure and amenities for stay on board. In some versions, the exterior space on the aft deck is clearly part of the design.

The most important consideration for a tourist is how often you actually stay overnight compared to the number of day trips. That affects the desired size and equipment. In advertisements, the length is often mentioned. Also note width, depth, motorisation or rigging and the condition of the current device. That’s how you compare boats for usability instead of one big number.

Who are Dufour boats for?

For families, holiday sailors and buyers who regularly stay in ports, the balance between cockpit space, sleeping cabins and storage space is more important than the factory photo.

The value of a Dufour-execution isn’t just for buyers. A practical comparison of Dufour starts with questions about engine, rigging and deck seals; the way a previous owner used the boat can make a difference. Check that the maintenance and the changes on board are on paper.

Comparing Dufour models and versions

Model series as Dufour 37 or Dufour 41 are mainly used to search specifically. The sizes and amenities cannot be reliably derived from just the model name. Other examples are: Dufour 470, Dufour 530. For an advertisement for an Dufour 37 also hears an audit of the exact year of construction and the current inventory.

Searches around Dufour Sail yachts may have different intentions: first get to know the model series, then find a pre-owned copy and finally assess a concrete advertisement. Therefore look at the exact execution.

What to check when buying a used Dufour

Check used specimens for wear and tear of deck cover and roller systems, general condition of keel and rudder, and check moisture problems around windows and shutters.

• Sailing and cabin installations: Think of how to safely dock the ship with the crew that usually sails.
• Documents: Ask how the ship has been used in recent years and whether it has been idle for a long time.
• Usage: Check that the insurer requires certain documents or inspections for the intended route.
• Particularities: Make arrangements on how known defects are documented before the final transfer.

Question by Dufour not only when something is maintained, but also by who and why. The reason for replacement or recovery often tells more than a list of new parts.

Prices and ownership costs for Dufour

The total cost of a Dufour consist not only of the purchase. Think of storage, insurance, periodic checks and appropriate rest space. Which items weigh heavily, differs by type of boat and sailing area.

Keep track Dufour take into account the combination of insurance, storage and service. The ratio of these costs varies greatly according to size, motorisation and number of sailing days.

How Dufour compares with other boat brands

If you have alternatives to Dufour search, compare hull type and purpose first. Only then do differences in appearance, finish and optional equipment have meaning.

The market around Dufour consists of various design choices. As an additional reference you can see the profiles of Bavaria Yachts and Island Packet read. Who on Dufour 37 or Dufour 41 The condition and the option list belong to the ship actually offered. A name or appearance is not a substitute for an inspection.

Find Dufour listings on BotenUnie

It makes sense to Dufour examine the practical consequences of the classification. View Before Dufour how motor, rigging and deck seals connect to your sailing plans. The ship’s deployment and year of construction may change its priorities in an inspection. At a viewing, make concrete questions of that. If necessary, look at the appropriate offer.

Use model information about Dufour to look more specifically and then consult an expert when technical uncertainty remains.