Dufour 375 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

The Dufour 375 Grand Large emerged during a period when Dufour Yachts, under the influence of designers like Umberto Felci, was keenly focused on refining its "Grand Large" series. This line aimed to encapsulate the builder's long-standing philosophy of producing high-quality, ready-to-sail yachts that blend performance with cruising amenities. Dufour, founded by Michel Dufour in 1964, pioneered fiberglass construction and consistently committed to robust build methods, typically employing solid fiberglass for hulls, especially in models under 50 feet.

The 375 Grand Large, with its production commencing in 2011, embodies this ethos. Umberto Felci's design approach for Dufour yachts is characterized by an assertive style, creating hulls known for their distinctive lines and excellent sailing dynamics. The 375GL features a comparatively wide hull, a characteristic that often contributes to greater interior volume and initial stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 375 Grand Large is designed as a capable cruiser with a comfortable motion. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.67 suggests that while it is not optimized for blistering light-air performance, it is well-suited for comfortable cruising in moderate to stronger winds. With a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.276, the design relies more on its hull form for stability rather than a heavily ballasted keel, a common characteristic of modern cruising yachts. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 203.3 places the Dufour 375 Grand Large in the category of a medium-heavy cruiser. This indicates a boat that offers a solid, comfortable ride in a seaway, with a good balance of performance for its class.

Reviews consistently praise the Dufour 375 Grand Large for being fun to sail and comfortable. The handling characteristics are generally well-regarded within the cruising community, with some reviews specifically noting the designer's effective implementation of details like the split backstay.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 375 Grand Large is designed to be airy and light, featuring numerous windows and opening portholes that enhance natural ventilation and illumination. While specific maximum headroom is not provided in the detailed specifications, the general design focus for the Grand Large series emphasizes comfortable living spaces.

The layout typically features an L-shaped dinette to port in the main saloon, providing a comfortable and inviting area for dining and relaxation. The boat was commonly offered in either a two-cabin or a three-cabin configuration, offering flexibility to cater to different owner needs, from couples to larger families or groups. The interior joinery is often crafted from mahogany, a hardwood known for its durability, water-repellent properties, and resistance to decay. Owners frequently appreciate the accessibility of the boat's mechanical systems, including the engine and batteries, which simplifies maintenance. The design often incorporates a gravity-fed system for holding tank drainage, which is a practical feature for offshore passages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour 375 Grand Large frequently highlight the boat's enjoyable sailing characteristics and its overall comfort, making it a popular choice for coastal cruising and extended voyages. The accessible nature of the mechanical systems is a consistent point of praise, simplifying routine maintenance and checks. While no pervasive recurring problems are specifically noted in common reviews, the overall sentiment points towards a well-engineered and reliable vessel for its intended purpose. Owners often describe themselves as experienced sailors who appreciate the balance of performance and liveability offered by this model.