Dufour 1800/25 Information, Review, Specs

The Dufour 1800/25 was introduced in 1979, succeeding the Dufour 25 model. Over its three-year production run, approximately 200 units of the 1800/25 were built, indicating a strong market reception for this compact cruiser. The design is attributed to both Laurent Cordelle and Michel Dufour, the visionary founder of Dufour Yachts. Michel Dufour, a passionate racing sailor and mechanical engineer, established Dufour Yachts in 1964 with a pioneering vision to create high-quality, ready-to-sail production boats using fiberglass, a revolutionary material at the time. The company's commitment to robust construction is evident in its methods, with hulls, particularly those under 50 feet, typically built of solid fiberglass, and decks meticulously crafted from fiberglass. A notable variation during its production was the availability of a lifting keel version, catering to sailors needing shallower draft capabilities. The "1800" in its name refers to its displacement of 1800 kilograms.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.10, the Dufour 1800/25 presents a moderately powered vessel. This ratio suggests a balanced performance profile, capable of handling a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in strong breezes. The ballast to displacement ratio stands at an impressive 41.6%, indicating good stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to wind effectively and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. This robust stability is a hallmark of its solid fiberglass construction. The displacement to length ratio of around 377 places the 1800/25 in a heavier category for its size, suggesting a more traditional, comfortable cruiser rather than a light, performance-oriented racer. Owners generally describe the Dufour 1800 as balanced and safe, particularly when sailing upwind. While it might be "a little restrained" downwind in a breeze, its conventional handling makes for predictable and secure sailing. The reported hull speed is 6.27 knots, a respectable figure for a boat of its length.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 1800/25 is designed for practical cruising, typically offering four berths. Descriptions often highlight a clean interior, with some examples featuring updated cushions. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the layout generally includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can serve as berths, and a galley area. Some configurations might feature a chart table, an unoriginal layout for its time. The finish quality of Dufour yachts from this era is generally considered good, with interiors in many models of the same era maintaining excellent condition over time. Storage and ventilation would be typical for a boat of this size, prioritizing functionality within a compact footprint.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour 1800 frequently praise its solid construction, with few structural problems reported for this model. The general consensus points to a well-built boat that stands the test of time. Common maintenance considerations often revolve around the original diesel engine, typically a Volvo Penta MD5A, which requires regular checks given its age. Regarding potential issues, some discussions among owners mention concerns about lifting keel mechanisms, particularly the possibility of mud ingress making operation stiff, and general leak issues around deck fittings or cabling, which are common for boats of this vintage and often require re-bedding or proper routing solutions. Despite these typical aging boat considerations, the Dufour 1800/25 is generally regarded as a classic cruiser that offers reliable and safe sailing characteristics.