Dufour 32 Integral Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Dufour Yachts, founded by Michel Dufour in 1964, pioneered the use of fiberglass in boatbuilding, a commitment to robust construction evident in the Dufour 32 Integral. The vessel's production began in 1997. While Dufour is well-regarded for striking a balance between exhilarating sailing performance and onboard comfort, the "Integral" designation of this model highlights a specific engineering choice: a pivoting lifting keel, commonly known as a swing keel. This innovative approach allowed the Dufour 32 Integral to bridge the gap between fixed-keel performance and shallow-draft accessibility, providing unparalleled versatility for its size. The hull and deck are constructed from solid fiberglass, a testament to Dufour's enduring manufacturing ethos during this era, ensuring durability and consistent quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 32 Integral's design specifications translate into a capable and engaging sailing experience. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 20.64, she possesses ample sail area relative to her weight, suggesting lively performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of roughly 0.322 indicates a design that balances stiffness with a reliance on hull form for stability, providing a reasonably stable and stiff platform. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of about 224.6 places her in the moderate displacement category, indicating a cruiser designed for respectable performance without being excessively heavy or ultra-light. The swing keel, while offering a minimum draft of 1.97 feet for shallow water access, can be extended to a maximum draft of 5.91 feet, providing the deeper foil necessary for enhanced upwind performance and stability in more challenging conditions. Overall, the Dufour 32 Integral is described as a high-performer for its class, offering agile and enjoyable handling.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 32.67 feet, the Dufour 32 Integral is designed to maximize interior volume, offering comfortable accommodations for cruising. The wide beam of 10.83 feet contributes significantly to a spacious interior feel. Typically, the layout features a two-cabin, one-head arrangement, standard for boats of this size from the era. The main salon is often described as bright and airy, benefiting from large deck windows that allow ample natural light. A forward V-berth cabin provides a primary sleeping area, while an aft cabin offers a substantial berth, capable of comfortably accommodating two adults. Interior finishes generally reflect Dufour's commitment to functional design, balancing practical materials with a comfortable ambiance suitable for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Dufour 32 Integral for its versatility, largely attributable to its unique lifting keel system. This design allows the boat to be "at home floating in shallow water" while also being "a great sailing boat perfect for crossing the channel". This adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of cruising grounds, from coastal exploration to more open-water passages. The combination of its solid construction and adaptable performance characteristics contributes to a generally positive ownership experience, appealing to sailors who value both comfort and the ability to access varied cruising destinations.