For those who demand the ultimate in luxury cruising yachts, the Dufour 520 Grand Large is a model that seamlessly blends cutting-edge design, high-performance sailing, and comfortable living spaces. Whether you’re navigating open waters, cruising the coastline, or enjoying a weekend getaway, the Dufour 520 Grand Large offers the perfect combination of power, elegance, and versatility.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the key features of the Dufour 520 Grand Large, focusing on its design and performance, versatile configurations, interior layouts, on-deck experience, specifications, pricing, and user reviews. If you’re in the market for a premium yacht, this guide will provide all the insights you need.
Design and Performance
The Dufour 520 Grand Large is a beautifully crafted yacht designed for both performance and comfort. The naval architecture, combined with Dufour’s commitment to high-quality construction, ensures that this yacht excels in sailing performance while offering luxurious living spaces for its owners and guests.
Hull and Structure
The hull of the Dufour 520 Grand Large is designed using fiberglass and a resin infusion process, providing both strength and lightness. The streamlined shape of the hull ensures a smooth ride and excellent stability, even in more turbulent waters. The hull’s design focuses on maximizing hydrodynamics, which results in less drag and better fuel efficiency during longer passages.
The yacht also features a strong, balanced keel, which enhances the vessel’s performance by providing a solid foundation and excellent stability while sailing. This makes the Dufour 520 Grand Large not only a joy to sail but also a safe and comfortable vessel in various weather conditions.
Sailing Performance
The Dufour 520 Grand Large is equipped with a high-performance rig, including a fully battened mainsail and self-tacking jib. These elements ensure that the yacht can handle a variety of wind conditions efficiently. The boat is responsive and easy to maneuver, even in challenging conditions, which is a testament to Dufour’s thoughtful design.
With twin rudders, the Dufour 520 Grand Large is incredibly agile, allowing for precise handling and a more balanced sailing experience. This feature becomes especially important when navigating through tight spaces or during quick maneuvers. The combination of the boat’s responsive sail plan and twin rudders ensures smooth sailing across all types of water.
Performance Highlights
- Fiberglass construction for strength and lightness.
- Balanced keel for superior stability and control.
- High-performance sail plan with fully battened mainsail and self-tacking jib.
- Twin rudders for precise handling in all sailing conditions.
Versatile Configurations
One of the standout features of the Dufour 520 Grand Large is its versatility. The yacht is offered in multiple configurations, allowing owners to choose the layout that best fits their needs, whether they’re cruising solo, with a family, or hosting guests on a chartered voyage.
The Dufour 520 Grand Large is available in various cabin and head configurations, which makes it suitable for a wide range of sailing preferences. Here are some popular layout options:
3-cabin, 3-head layout: Ideal for private owners or small families, this layout provides ample space and privacy.
4-cabin, 4-head layout: A great choice for larger groups or charter use, providing extra cabins and bathrooms for guests.
5-cabin, 3-head layout: Perfect for those looking for more sleeping accommodations without sacrificing comfort in common areas.
These customizable configurations offer flexibility in how you use your yacht, whether you prefer a larger dining area, additional guest cabins, or extra storage for long trips.
Interior Layouts
The interior of the Dufour 520 Grand Large is a masterpiece of design, combining comfort, elegance, and functionality. The yacht offers spacious, light-filled cabins, large living areas, and well-equipped spaces to ensure that you and your guests enjoy your time on board.
Saloon and Galley
The saloon of the Dufour 520 Grand Large is designed to be a welcoming, open space where you can relax and socialize. Large windows flood the space with natural light, offering stunning panoramic views of the water and sky. The layout is open-plan, making the saloon feel even more expansive.
The galley is located at the heart of the yacht and is designed for practicality while maintaining a sense of luxury. Equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, including a refrigerator, stove, oven, and microwave, the galley is ideal for preparing gourmet meals while cruising. The storage space is plentiful, ensuring that everything has a place.
Cabins and Heads
The Dufour 520 Grand Large offers a variety of cabin configurations, but all options focus on comfort and space. The owner’s suite is located at the bow and features a spacious king-size berth with ample storage and an en-suite head. The guest cabins are equally well-appointed, with large berths and plenty of storage for personal items.
The heads are well-lit and equipped with high-end fixtures, offering a spa-like experience. The layout ensures privacy and convenience, especially for longer voyages when multiple guests are on board.
On-Deck Experience
The deck layout of the Dufour 520 Grand Large is designed to maximize both functionality and comfort. Whether you’re handling the sails or simply enjoying the scenery, the yacht provides an enjoyable and ergonomic environment for every activity.
Cockpit and Helm Station
The cockpit is spacious, providing ample room for both the crew and guests. The twin helm stations offer excellent visibility and control, making sailing easy and enjoyable. With all the necessary controls within reach, the Dufour 520 Grand Large allows the captain to sail with ease, even during complex maneuvers.
The cockpit features a large dining table, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a meal in the fresh air. For those who enjoy the water, the integrated swim platform allows easy access to the sea, making it perfect for swimming, diving, or enjoying water sports.
Sailing Equipment and Rigging
The Dufour 520 Grand Large comes with a modern rigging system, including a self-tacking jib, fully battened mainsail, and electric winches. These features ensure that the yacht can be easily managed, even with a smaller crew. The yacht is also equipped with German sheeting, allowing for precise control over the sails.
The deck layout also includes a large foredeck and ample space for sunbathing or relaxing in the fresh air. The combination of modern sailing equipment and luxurious deck amenities makes the Dufour 520 Grand Large a joy to sail and a comfortable place to spend time on the water.
Specifications
Here are the key specifications of the Dufour 520 Grand Large:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length Overall | 15.20 m |
| Beam | 4.80 m |
| Draft | 2.30 m |
| Displacement | 13,000 kg |
| Engine Power | 75 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 400 L |
| Water Capacity | 600 L |
Dufour 520 Grand Large Price
The Dufour 520 Grand Large is a high-end yacht that reflects its luxurious build and performance. The pricing can vary depending on the configuration, customization, and location, but here’s a general price range:
Base Price (New Model): $500,000 – $650,000
Pre-Owned Models: $400,000 – $550,000 (depending on age and condition)
Charter Cost: $5,000 – $8,500 per week (depending on location and season)
Although the Dufour 520 Grand Large represents a significant investment, it offers exceptional value for those looking for a yacht that delivers on both luxury and performance.
Dufour 520 Grand Large Review
Strengths
- High-quality interior with spacious cabins and modern finishes.
- Superior sailing performance with a responsive sail plan and twin rudders.
- Versatile configurations to meet different cruising needs.
- Well-designed cockpit with plenty of space for relaxation and entertaining.
- Modern rigging system that simplifies sail handling, even for smaller crews.
Weaknesses
- Higher price point compared to similar yachts in the same size category.
- Fuel consumption may be slightly higher on long passages, particularly when cruising at full speed.
- Complex rigging system might require some experience to operate effectively, especially for less experienced sailors.
Overall, the Dufour 520 Grand Large has received glowing reviews from both experienced yacht owners and first-time buyers. Its combination of luxury, performance, and versatility makes it a top choice for those who want the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
The Dufour 520 Grand Large is a yacht that blends luxury, performance, and innovation into one exceptional package. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish yacht for long voyages or a high-performance vessel for thrilling sailing experiences, the Dufour 520 Grand Large delivers on every front.
With its impressive design, customizable configurations, luxurious interiors, and excellent sailing capabilities, this yacht is a top contender in the competitive luxury yacht market. For those who want to experience sailing at its finest, the Dufour 520 Grand Large is an investment that offers long-lasting enjoyment and unparalleled performance.
