Dufour 365 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Dufour 365 Grand Large began its production run in 2004 and continued until approximately 2012, with over 400 units reportedly built. As part of Dufour's "Grand Large" series, it embodies the builder's philosophy of striking a delicate balance between performance and comfort. Dufour Yachts, founded by Michel Dufour in 1964, was an early pioneer in fiberglass boatbuilding, committed to robust construction methods. The 365 Grand Large upholds this tradition with a hull meticulously crafted from solid fiberglass and a deck also of fiberglass construction, ensuring durability and consistent quality from their facility in La Rochelle, France. The design, spearheaded by Umberto Felci, reflects a modern aesthetic with an emphasis on maximizing interior volume while retaining strong sailing characteristics. Some variations, such as the "Edition Arpège" or "Limited Edition Arpege," were also offered during its production, hinting at special packages or cosmetic enhancements.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 365 Grand Large is designed as a thoroughly competent all-around family cruising yacht, performing well across various sailing conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.76, she falls into the category of a moderate performance cruiser. This suggests a yacht capable of respectable speeds in a range of wind conditions, though perhaps not optimized for very light airs or extreme racing. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 218.4 indicates a medium-displacement vessel, leaning towards the lighter side for a cruising boat of her size, which contributes to her agile handling and performance potential.

Despite a ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 23.9%, which is relatively low for a monohull, the 365 Grand Large maintains good stability. Modern designs often achieve this through a wider beam and form stability, allowing for a more spacious interior without compromising safety. The inclusion of a bulb keel and a spade rudder further enhances her performance and maneuverability, providing good control and responsiveness under sail. Owners and reviewers generally praise her good reputation for sailing, finding her well-balanced and predictable in different sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 35 feet, the Dufour 365 Grand Large is notable for its spacious and well-appointed interior, designed for comfortable extended stays. While specific headroom figures are not consistently detailed, the boat is generally described as having ample interior volume, often accommodating 6 to 8 berths. The layout typically features a forward V-berth, a generously sized main salon, a galley, and a head.

Common configurations for the 365 Grand Large include a two-cabin "owner's version," which notably enhances the space and offers a particularly large bathroom, appealing to cruising couples. A three-cabin layout, providing accommodation for up to eight crew, was also available. Reviewers frequently highlight the "outstanding fore cabin". The interior finish generally features wood trim combined with fiberglass liners, consistent with Dufour's production standards of the era. Storage is reported to be ample throughout the boat, contributing to its suitability for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour 365 Grand Large generally hold a positive view of the vessel, frequently praising its solid construction and overall reliability. The boat's reputation as a "thoroughly competent all round family cruising yacht" is consistently echoed in owner feedback, highlighting its versatile capabilities for both weekend excursions and more ambitious cruises. Many appreciate the balance struck between sailing performance and liveability, finding it a joy to sail while also offering a comfortable and spacious platform at anchor or in a marina. The longevity and enduring appeal of the model are evidenced by examples remaining in the same ownership for many years. While specific recurring issues are not prominently reported, the general consensus points to a well-built and capable cruiser that satisfies the needs of discerning sailors looking for a modern and comfortable sailing experience.