Dufour 350 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

The Dufour 350 Grand Large emerged as a successor to the popular Dufour 335, continuing Dufour Yachts' tradition of crafting high-quality production boats using pioneering fiberglass construction. The builder, founded by Michel Dufour in 1964, has consistently embraced fiberglass for its efficiency and consistent quality, with many hulls, particularly those under 50 feet, built of solid fiberglass in their state-of-the-art facility in La Rochelle, France. The design of the 350 Grand Large falls under the expertise of Umberto Felci, a prominent naval architect who has been a long-standing collaborator with Dufour Yachts. Felci's design philosophy for the Grand Large series focuses on a harmonious blend of exhilarating sailing characteristics with exceptional onboard ergonomics and comfort, aiming for yachts that are not only stylish but also well-suited for extended navigation and enjoyable living aboard. The 350 Grand Large was notably the third model in the Grand Large line to be launched within the competitive 10-meter yacht segment.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.3, the Dufour 350 Grand Large is characterized as a moderately powered cruiser, indicating a design focused more on comfortable passage-making than pure light-air speed. Its ballast to displacement ratio of around 27.3% suggests a design that prioritizes interior volume and cruising comfort over extreme stiffness in heavy winds, a common trade-off in many modern cruising yachts. However, with a displacement-to-length ratio of about 214, she positions herself as a medium-light cruiser, striking a balance between weight and performance. The yacht features a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, contributing to a responsive helm and good maneuverability. Anecdotal reviews praise its well-balanced hull and its ability to combine looks, performance, and comfort, making it a capable performer for a cruising creation.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 350 Grand Large is designed for spaciousness and comfort, offering an open feel from the companionway to the bow. Owners have the flexibility to choose between a two-cabin or a three-cabin layout, both typically featuring a single head. The two-cabin "owner's layout" provides a generous master cabin forward. Reviews frequently highlight the boat's "significantly more spacy hull design," which enhances the living areas. Thoughtful details contribute to the onboard experience, such as the distinctive Dufour wine rack ingeniously placed below the floorboards at the foot of the companionway. The overall interior finish and style are noted for their sophistication, mirroring the elegance found in larger Dufour models and providing ample comfort for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and reviewers frequently commend the Dufour 350 Grand Large as a "compact" and "family" yacht, often citing its well-balanced hull, robust construction, and wide stern as key attributes. While specific recurring issues or common problems are not widely detailed in general reviews, the collective sentiment emphasizes the boat's success in blending appealing aesthetics with practical sailing and living comfort. The design goal of delivering comfortable cruising at a reasonable price is generally seen as well-achieved, making it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and enjoyable sailing platform.