The Dufour 445 Grand Large is a luxury cruising yacht that combines sophisticated design, exceptional performance, and versatile configurations. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or new to yachting, the Dufour 445 offers something for everyone. This boat offers a perfect balance of comfort, performance, and innovation, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll dive into every aspect of the Dufour 445 Grand Large, including its design, performance, configurations, interior layouts, and much more.
Design and Performance
The Dufour 445 Grand Large is designed to offer an exceptional blend of performance and comfort, making it an ideal choice for both casual cruising and more ambitious voyages. With input from the acclaimed naval architects at Felci Yacht Design, this model combines modern aesthetics with advanced engineering to ensure a top-tier sailing experience.
Hull and Structure
The hull is crafted from fiberglass with a resin-infused construction, striking the perfect balance between strength and lightness. The wide stern design enhances stability, offering plenty of room for both relaxation and storage. Its sharp bow entry enables the yacht to slice through waves effortlessly, improving both speed and fuel efficiency.
Sailing Performance
The Dufour 445 Grand Large boasts a deep, well-balanced keel that significantly improves its upwind performance. Twin rudders ensure excellent control, even in more challenging conditions. The yacht’s high aspect ratio sail plan contributes to its impressive sailing speed and maneuverability, making it highly responsive in a range of wind conditions. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or embarking on a longer journey, this yacht delivers a reliable and enjoyable performance.
Versatile Configurations
One of the standout features of the Dufour 445 Grand Large is its versatile configurations. The boat is available in multiple versions to suit different preferences and needs. These configurations include:
Standard Layout: The most popular option, offering a 3-cabin layout with a spacious saloon and galley, making it ideal for families or groups of friends.
Owner’s Version: This configuration offers a more luxurious experience with a larger owner’s suite and two additional guest cabins.
Charter Version: Specifically designed for charter purposes, this layout offers additional sleeping capacity without sacrificing comfort.
Custom Configurations: For those seeking something unique, Dufour offers custom options that allow owners to tailor the yacht’s layout to their exact preferences.
These configurations ensure that no matter your sailing style or group size, there’s a version of the Dufour 445 Grand Large that will meet your needs.
Interior Layouts
The interior of the Dufour 445 Grand Large is a testament to thoughtful design and attention to detail. The yacht features high-quality finishes, including natural woodwork and modern furnishings, that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Saloon
The saloon is the heart of the yacht’s living space, providing ample seating for guests and a comfortable environment for dining. Large windows allow natural light to flood the space, offering panoramic views of the water. The saloon is designed to be both stylish and functional, with plenty of storage options for personal items and sailing gear.
Cabins
The yacht comes with three spacious cabins, with the owner’s suite being particularly luxurious. The master cabin features a large double bed, private head, and storage space, while the two guest cabins offer comfortable sleeping arrangements with shared access to a well-appointed bathroom.
Galley
The galley is designed for ease of use, whether you’re preparing simple meals or hosting dinner parties. It includes modern appliances, plenty of counter space, and easy access to the cockpit for outdoor dining.
Navigation Station
The Dufour 445 also offers a dedicated navigation station equipped with the latest technology to help you navigate safely and efficiently. This station is conveniently located in the saloon, making it easily accessible while still providing privacy when needed.
On-Deck Experience
The Dufour 445 Grand Large shines when it comes to its on-deck experience. Designed with sailors in mind, the cockpit offers ample space for socializing and relaxation, while also maintaining functionality for sailing.
Cockpit
The cockpit is spacious, with a large table for outdoor dining and comfortable seating for the crew. It also features a steering wheel, allowing for excellent control of the yacht. The cockpit layout is designed to minimize the need for crew members to move around the boat while sailing, ensuring efficiency and safety.
Deck Space
The wide side decks make it easy to move around the yacht, while the aft deck has ample space for sunbathing or simply relaxing with friends. The yacht’s rigging is well-organized, ensuring that the crew can operate the sails without hassle. The Dufour 445 also features a large swim platform, perfect for accessing the water and enjoying water sports.
Specifications
Here’s a breakdown of the Dufour 445 Grand Large’s key specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length Overall (LOA) | 13.5 meters (44 feet) |
| Beam | 4.3 meters (14 feet) |
| Draft | 2.2 meters (7.2 feet) |
| Displacement | 9,400 kg (20,723 lbs) |
| Sail Area | 109 m² (1,173 sq ft) |
| Engine | 55 HP (Diesel) |
| Fuel Capacity | 200 liters (53 US gal) |
| Water Capacity | 360 liters (95 US gal) |
| Cabins | 3-4 cabins |
| Heads | 2-3 heads |
| Designer | Umberto Felci |
| Construction | Fiberglass, Balsa Core |
Dufour 445 Grand Large Price
The price of the Dufour 445 Grand Large can vary significantly based on the configuration, year, and any additional customizations. On average, the price for a new Dufour 445 Grand Large starts at around $300,000 and can reach up to $400,000 for a fully equipped model with luxury options. The price also fluctuates depending on the region and specific market conditions. For used models, prices can range from $200,000 to $300,000, depending on the age and condition of the yacht.
Dufour 445 Grand Large Review
Strengths
Exceptional craftsmanship and premium finishes: Known for its high-quality construction and luxurious interiors, the Dufour 445 Grand Large offers a stylish and durable living space.
Versatile layouts: With multiple configurations, it caters to both private owners and charters, ensuring flexibility for various needs.
Excellent sailing performance: This yacht delivers smooth handling and responsiveness, even in moderate wind conditions, ensuring a great sailing experience.
Spacious and comfortable cockpit: The wide cockpit offers ample seating, a large dining table, and user-friendly controls, ideal for both relaxing and sailing.
Large fuel and water tanks: Perfect for long-distance cruising, the yacht’s generous tanks reduce the need for frequent stops, enhancing extended cruising.
Weaknesses
Limited engine power: The 55 HP engine might feel underpowered in strong currents, though it’s adequate for most cruising conditions.
Higher price tag: The Dufour 445 is priced above some competitors, but its craftsmanship justifies the cost.
Complex swim platform mechanism: Some owners find the swim platform’s mechanism a bit complicated to use.
Overall, the Dufour 445 Grand Large is highly praised for its combination of performance, luxury, and innovative design, offering a satisfying sailing experience.
Conclusion
The Dufour 445 Grand Large is a standout in the world of cruising yachts. With its striking design, exceptional performance, and versatile configurations, it offers something for every type of sailor. Whether you’re looking for a boat for personal use or a vessel for chartering, the Dufour 445 provides a perfect balance of luxury, functionality, and performance.
From its spacious, well-designed interiors to its agile handling on the water, the Dufour 445 Grand Large is a yacht that delivers on its promises. Its ability to provide comfort, stability, and speed in a variety of conditions makes it a top choice among cruising enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a yacht that combines style and performance, the Dufour 445 Grand Large is an option worth considering.
