Dufour 325 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

The Dufour 325 Grand Large entered production in 2005, embodying Dufour Yachts' long-standing commitment to innovative fiberglass construction that dates back to the company's founding in 1964 by Michel Dufour,. This era saw Dufour continuing its tradition of building hulls, particularly those under 50 feet, from solid fiberglass, ensuring robust construction, while decks were meticulously crafted from fiberglass in a PVC foam core sandwich using an injection molding process for optimal strength and weight.

The design, spearheaded by Umberto Felci in collaboration with Patrick Roseo, reflects Dufour's broader philosophy of creating yachts with an assertive design that prioritize both performance and comfort 1, 4, 6, Builder Article. Felci's expertise, evident in the 325, aimed to optimize the use of space, a key characteristic for a boat in this size range, without sacrificing its sailing dynamics. During its production run, the Dufour 325 Grand Large was offered with both a standard draft of approximately 6.07 feet (1.85 meters) and a shallow draft version measuring around 5.09 feet (1.55 meters), catering to diverse cruising grounds [2, 6,.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 325 Grand Large is designed to offer a pleasant sailing experience, characterized by responsiveness and agility. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.93, she exhibits moderate performance, suggesting she will perform well in a decent breeze but may require more wind to truly excel in lighter conditions. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 204.37 places her in the category of a moderate-weight cruiser, leaning towards the lighter side for her class, which contributes to her lively handling.

While some anecdotal observations suggest the boat might be considered "slightly under powered" and possess a "low righting capability if heeled far," her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.276, combined with a bulb keel and a responsive spade rudder, works to provide reasonable stability and stiffness [5,. The fractional rig, a key design choice, contributes to easier tacking, making the Dufour 325 Grand Large particularly manageable for short-handed sailing or newcomers to the sport. Her hull speed is calculated at approximately 7.13 knots [2,.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 325 Grand Large is thoughtfully arranged to maximize comfort and functionality within its 33-foot length. It typically features a two-cabin layout, accommodating up to six berths with a convertible saloon berth, and a single head. The interior is described as "warmly appointed," showcasing a classic mahogany finish with a "woodprint" laminated floor.

Headroom in the saloon is generous for a boat of this size, measuring approximately 6.13 to 6.16 feet (1.87 to 1.88 meters), enhancing the sense of space. The saloon settees are well-proportioned for comfortable seating and even napping, with ample storage bins cleverly integrated beneath them. A functional navigation desk provides a large work surface, crucial for passage planning. Natural light is augmented by hull portlights in the saloon, contributing to a bright and airy atmosphere. The cabin doors are equipped with a blocking system to keep them securely open when desired, reflecting attention to practical onboard living. A water capacity of 42 gallons and a fuel capacity of 24 gallons further support comfortable cruising [2,.