Dufour 30/31 Frers Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Dufour 30/31 Frers commenced production in 1980, entering the market at a time when Dufour Yachts, under the visionary leadership of Michel Dufour, was firmly established as a leader in fiberglass boat construction. The builder was known for creating high-quality, ready-to-sail production boats using this revolutionary material, with a commitment to robust construction evident in their methods, often featuring solid fiberglass hulls and meticulously crafted fiberglass decks. The collaboration with German Frers, a celebrated naval architect known for his designs of "fast boats that are fun to sail," lent the 30/31 a distinctive performance edge.

Frers' design philosophy for boats of this size often focused on creating yachts that were both competitive on the race course and comfortable for cruising, seeking a harmonious balance between performance and livability. The 30/31 Frers was offered with variations in its rig, including both a masthead tall rig and a fractional rig, providing options for different sailing preferences. A shoal draft keel option was also available, at 4.42 feet, alongside the standard 5.5-foot maximum draft, enhancing its versatility for various cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a fin keel and spade rudder, the Dufour 30/31 Frers is designed for responsive handling and good maneuverability. The boat's sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) calculates to approximately 15.2, placing it in the moderate performance category. This suggests a yacht that is not overly sensitive in light air but can still deliver respectable speeds in a breeze. Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) is a healthy 0.447, indicating a relatively stiff and stable boat that can stand up well to a stronger wind without excessive heeling.

The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 231.8 classifies the 30/31 Frers as a moderate displacement cruiser. This translates to a vessel that offers a comfortable motion in a seaway, without being excessively heavy or sluggish. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Dufour 30 (referring to this model) provides "easy handling" and contributes to "spontaneous sailing pleasure," aligning with German Frers' reputation for designing enjoyable and nimble yachts. Her hull speed is calculated at 6.73 knots, indicating her theoretical maximum speed potential under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 30/31 Frers is designed for comfortable cruising within its 30.5-foot length. While specific interior layouts can vary, typical arrangements include a V-berth forward, a main saloon with opposing settees and a central table, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Descriptions of the Dufour 30 mention that the saloon floor was lowered behind the keel structure to achieve a reasonable interior height, providing at least 1.78 meters (approximately 5 feet 10 inches) of headroom in key areas, enhancing livability.

Based on Dufour's general build philosophy from that era, the interior would likely feature a blend of molded fiberglass components with wooden trim, offering a practical yet inviting finish. Storage is generally well-considered for a boat of this size, and ventilation is typically achieved through deck hatches and portlights. Dufour yachts of this period were known for their practical and comfortable interiors, making them suitable for coastal cruising and weekend trips.

Owner's Perspectives

While specific consolidated owner reviews for the Dufour 30/31 Frers are not extensively documented in broad public summaries, general sentiment around Dufour yachts often highlights their solid construction and robust build quality, particularly for models from this era, due to their reliance on solid fiberglass hulls. Owners of Dufour models frequently praise their balanced sailing characteristics and comfortable motion, echoing the design goals often attributed to German Frers' work. However, as with any boat of its vintage, potential owners would typically consider inspecting original systems and fittings for common wear-and-tear issues that might require maintenance or upgrades over time. Online forums dedicated to Dufour owners can be a valuable resource for connecting with the collective experience of those who cherish these classic French cruisers.