The Dufour 50 Grand Large is a standout in the world of modern sailing yachts, combining innovative design with superior performance and luxurious comfort. As part of the prestigious Dufour line, this sailing yacht appeals to seasoned sailors and new enthusiasts alike, delivering a seamless blend of power, style, and versatility. Whether you’re navigating coastal waters or embarking on an extended cruise, the Dufour 50 Grand Large offers an exceptional yachting experience that elevates it beyond many competitors in the yacht industry.
Design and Performance
Hull and Structure
The Dufour 50 Grand Large’s design centers around a strong, yet lightweight hull crafted with advanced composite materials, ensuring durability without sacrificing speed. The hull shape features a modern plumb bow and a wide stern, maximizing interior volume while optimizing hydrodynamics. This combination provides excellent stability and reduces drag, which directly contributes to enhanced sailing efficiency.
In addition, the yacht’s twin rudders provide precise maneuverability, particularly when heeling under sail, a crucial feature for maintaining control in variable wind conditions. The hull’s structural integrity is reinforced by an internal grid system, ensuring long-lasting rigidity and safety, even in challenging seas.
Sailing Performance
Performance is a hallmark of the Dufour 50 Grand Large. Its sail plan is designed for ease and power, featuring a large mainsail complemented by a furling genoa or optional code zero, allowing sailors to adapt quickly to changing wind conditions. The dual-wheel helm stations give the captain a commanding view and excellent control, enhancing the sailing experience.
Thanks to its balanced rig and thoughtful weight distribution, the yacht accelerates smoothly and maintains momentum efficiently. It offers a fine balance between comfort and agility, which means it performs well both for relaxed cruising and more spirited sailing, making it a versatile contender in the sailing yacht category.
Versatile Configurations
One of the key advantages of the Dufour 50 Grand Large is the range of customizable configurations that cater to different sailing lifestyles. Owners can choose from several cabin layouts, including three or four cabins, allowing for optimal use of space whether the yacht is used for family vacations or charter operations.
The sail handling options also vary, with choices for electric winches, furling systems, and deck hardware tailored to the owner’s preferences. This flexibility ensures the yacht can be easily managed by a couple or a larger crew, broadening its appeal to a diverse group of sailing enthusiasts.
Interior Layouts
Step inside the Dufour 50 Grand Large, and you’ll find a spacious, elegant interior crafted with fine materials and attention to detail. The yacht’s wide beam translates into roomy living areas, including a large saloon with panoramic windows that flood the space with natural light.
The galley is ergonomically designed with modern appliances, ample storage, and a large countertop, ideal for preparing meals during extended voyages. The cabins feature comfortable berths, storage solutions, and private heads in most configurations, ensuring privacy and convenience for all aboard.
The use of natural wood finishes combined with modern upholstery creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, while clever ventilation and lighting systems enhance comfort below deck. The layout promotes both social interaction and personal retreat, making it suitable for both entertaining and relaxation.
On-Deck Experience
On deck, the Dufour 50 Grand Large truly shines as a luxury yacht designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. The cockpit is expansive, with ergonomically placed seating and sunbathing areas that invite leisure and conversation. Twin wheels provide excellent visibility and access to all sail controls, allowing for responsive sailing.
The flush deck and wide side decks ensure safe and easy movement around the yacht, even while underway. A large swim platform at the stern folds down to facilitate water access, enhancing the yacht’s appeal for water sports and relaxing anchorages.
Additionally, the yacht offers ample storage lockers and well-thought-out shading options, making it ideal for long days on the water in comfort. The overall deck design encourages outdoor living, a must-have for any luxury sailing yacht.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length Overall (LOA) | 49 ft 2 in (15.0 m) |
| Beam | 15 ft 4 in (4.68 m) |
| Draft | 7 ft 2 in (2.20 m) – standard keel |
| Displacement | 15,200 lbs (6,900 kg) |
| Engine | Volvo D2 75 HP (standard) |
| Fuel Capacity | 53 gallons (200 liters) |
| Water Capacity | 105 gallons (400 liters) |
| Sail Area | 1,145 sq ft (106.4 m²) |
| Cabins | 3 or 4 |
| Heads | 2 or 3 |
Dufour 50 Grand Large Price
Pricing for the Dufour 50 Grand Large typically starts around $550,000, depending on customization options and the chosen configuration. Additional upgrades, such as advanced navigation electronics, luxury upholstery packages, and premium sail handling systems, can increase the final price. Compared to catamarans and other luxury yachts in its size range, the Dufour 50 Grand Large offers an attractive balance of quality and value, making it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a high-performance sailing yacht without compromising on comfort.
Dufour 50 Grand Large Review
Strengths
- Exceptional Sailing Performance: The hull design and rigging deliver smooth acceleration, stability, and control.
- Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The wide beam allows for roomy cabins and a bright, welcoming salon.
- Flexible Configurations: Multiple cabin layouts and customizable options suit both family cruising and charter use.
- Modern On-Deck Design: Ergonomic cockpit and practical deck layout improve usability and safety.
- Quality Build and Materials: Attention to detail in construction and finishes offers a premium feel.
Weaknesses
- Price Point: While competitive, the Dufour 50 Grand Large can be pricey when fully equipped, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Single-Hull Design Limitations: Compared to catamarans, it offers less interior volume and may be less stable at anchor.
- Complexity for Beginners: The advanced sail plan and equipment might require a learning curve for novice sailors.
Conclusion
The Dufour 50 Grand Large stands out as an impressive luxury sailing yacht that successfully balances performance, comfort, and versatility. Its sleek design, robust construction, and customizable features make it a strong contender for anyone seeking a capable cruiser for both coastal adventures and offshore voyages.
While the yacht industry has seen a surge in popularity for catamarans and other multihulls, the Dufour 50 Grand Large remains a powerful and elegant option for traditional sailing yacht enthusiasts. Its combination of speed, spaciousness, and refined interior craftsmanship ensures it will appeal to those who desire a sophisticated and dependable yacht for years to come.
