When it comes to luxury yacht craftsmanship that combines style, performance, and versatility, the Dufour 310 Grand Large stands out in the yacht industry. Designed for both seasoned sailors and newcomers, this sailing yacht offers an exceptional balance between ease of handling and the thrill of the sea. Whether you’re dreaming of weekend escapes or extended voyages, the Dufour 310 Grand Large promises an experience that merges innovation with classic elegance.
Design and Performance
Hull and Structure
The Dufour 310 Grand Large features a meticulously engineered hull designed to optimize stability and speed. Its hull shape is a fine balance between a modern performance cruiser and a comfortable family yacht. Constructed using high-quality fiberglass reinforced with strategic composite materials, the hull ensures both lightweight agility and durability.
The hull’s moderate beam allows for ample interior space without sacrificing performance. The hull design minimizes drag and enhances hydrodynamics, which translates to better fuel efficiency and smoother sailing even in less-than-ideal sea conditions.
The structural framework employs advanced techniques ensuring rigidity without unnecessary weight. This combination of materials and design choices helps the Dufour 310 Grand Large remain sturdy and reliable, ideal for both coastal and offshore cruising.
Sailing Performance
Performance-wise, the Dufour 310 Grand Large is crafted for responsiveness and control. The sail plan offers a powerful yet manageable setup, with a fully battened mainsail and a furling genoa. This rigging makes the yacht easy to handle for small crews or even single-handed sailing.
Thanks to its moderate draft and optional shoal draft keel, the yacht can navigate shallow waters, opening up more cruising grounds without compromising upwind performance. The rudder and keel combination provides excellent maneuverability, allowing precise control during tacking and downwind runs.
The yacht’s balanced weight distribution and hull shape contribute to a comfortable ride in choppy waters, absorbing waves effectively to reduce motion sickness and fatigue on longer passages. Its sailing performance truly reflects the spirit of a luxury yacht built for pleasure and adventure alike.
Versatile Configurations
One of the key strengths of the Dufour 310 Grand Large lies in its versatility. The yacht is available with several configuration options, enabling owners to tailor the vessel according to their specific needs and preferences.
Options include variations in keel types (standard or shoal draft), rigging setups, and cockpit arrangements. This adaptability ensures that whether you prioritize shallow water sailing, competitive performance, or maximum comfort, there is a Dufour 310 Grand Large to match.
Furthermore, the yacht offers customization for onboard systems, such as navigation electronics, sail handling gear, and auxiliary power units, making it suitable for a wide range of sailing experiences from casual day sailing to extended cruising.
Interior Layouts
Step inside the Dufour 310 Grand Large, and you’ll discover a thoughtfully designed interior that maximizes space and comfort. The yacht’s interior caters to both functionality and aesthetics, with an emphasis on natural light and ventilation.
Typically, the interior features two cabins — a spacious owner’s cabin forward and a guest cabin aft — providing privacy and comfort for family or guests. The saloon area is well-appointed, offering a cozy dining space and a fully equipped galley that can handle everything from light snacks to full meals.
Storage is cleverly integrated throughout the yacht, making the most of every nook and cranny. High-quality wood finishes and modern fixtures enhance the warm and inviting atmosphere below deck. The design incorporates large hatches and ports, flooding the interior with sunlight and fresh air, making it an ideal sanctuary after a day on the water.
On-Deck Experience
On deck, the Dufour 310 Grand Large balances ergonomic design with practical features. The cockpit is spacious and safe, with seating that accommodates both relaxed socializing and active sailing.
The helm station is positioned for clear visibility and easy access to all controls, ideal for skippers who want to stay connected to the boat’s performance. The wide side decks make moving forward or aft secure and effortless, even in rough conditions.
Additional features such as a folding swim platform and a dedicated storage locker for fenders and lines enhance convenience for leisure activities. The deck layout reflects a deep understanding of both the sailing experience and lifestyle needs of yacht owners, making it a welcoming environment for family, friends, and guests.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length Overall (LOA) | 31.17 ft (9.5 m) |
| Beam | 10.66 ft (3.25 m) |
| Draft (Standard Keel) | 6.23 ft (1.9 m) |
| Draft (Shoal Keel) | 4.59 ft (1.4 m) |
| Displacement | 7,275 lbs (3,300 kg) |
| Ballast | 2,540 lbs (1,150 kg) |
| Sail Area (Upwind) | 515 sq ft (47.9 m²) |
| Engine | 18 HP Diesel |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.2 US gallons (50 L) |
| Water Capacity | 26.4 US gallons (100 L) |
| Number of Cabins | 2 |
| Number of Berths | 5 |
Dufour 310 Grand Large Price
The price of the Dufour 310 Grand Large varies depending on optional features and configurations, but generally, it starts around $150,000 to $180,000. This price reflects the yacht’s quality craftsmanship, modern design, and comprehensive onboard systems.
Considering the level of customization available, the final price can increase if additional upgrades are selected, such as advanced navigation equipment, premium interior finishes, or performance rigging packages.
Compared to other sailing yachts in its class, the Dufour 310 Grand Large offers excellent value for money, making it an attractive option for buyers looking to enter the luxury yacht market without compromising on performance or comfort.
Dufour 310 Grand Large Review
Strengths
- Elegant and modern design that blends performance with comfort.
- Versatile configurations allowing customization for different sailing preferences.
- Efficient sail plan that makes handling easy, even for small crews.
- Spacious and well-lit interior offering excellent comfort below deck.
- High build quality ensuring durability and safety.
- Good resale value due to strong brand reputation.
Weaknesses
- Limited storage space for extended cruising or liveaboard use.
- Relatively small water and fuel tanks, which may require more frequent refueling and water stops.
- Engine power might feel modest in adverse conditions, though adequate for typical use.
- Cockpit size, while spacious, may feel cramped with a large crew during active sailing.
Conclusion
The Dufour 310 Grand Large is a standout in the world of sailing yachts. It combines the elegance and luxury yacht appeal with practical sailing performance and versatility. Whether you’re a casual weekend sailor or an adventurer setting out for longer cruises, this yacht offers a balanced blend of comfort, style, and reliability.
In the evolving yacht industry, the Dufour 310 Grand Large holds its position as a modern classic — one that respects traditional sailing values while embracing new technologies and design philosophies. For anyone looking to invest in a capable and beautiful sailing yacht, this model is undoubtedly worth serious consideration.
