Dufour 425 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

The Dufour 425 Grand Large commenced production in 2006, emerging from the innovative spirit of Dufour Yachts, a company founded by Michel Dufour in 1964. From its inception, Dufour embraced fiberglass as a revolutionary boatbuilding material, allowing for efficient production and consistent quality, a tradition maintained in the 425 Grand Large with its solid fiberglass hull and meticulously crafted fiberglass deck. The design of the 425 Grand Large reflects the contemporary philosophy of Dufour, shaped significantly by their long-standing partnership with Umberto Felci. Felci's vision for modern cruising yachts emphasizes a balance between comfort and outstanding sailing performance, optimizing interior volume by carrying the boat's ample beam far forward and aft. This design approach aims to create a highly enjoyable cruising yacht that does not sacrifice performance for its spacious accommodations. There were also variations of the 425 Grand Large, including a shallow draft version with a minimum draft of 5.58 feet (1.7 meters), compared to the standard 6.89 feet (2.1 meters).

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 425 Grand Large offers a compelling blend of cruising comfort and performance under sail. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.03, she is designed to be a balanced cruiser, capable of performing well across a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavy gusts. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 173.9 places her on the lighter side of moderate displacement, contributing to her ability to be "pretty fast for a cruising boat." The ballast to displacement ratio, at approximately 27.7%, suggests a moderate level of initial stiffness, benefiting from the generous beam that is carried well aft to enhance form stability. Overall, the 425 Grand Large is recognized as an "impressive sailing boat with ocean capability" that handles well, striking a desirable balance between comfort and outstanding sailing characteristics. Reviewers and owners have described her as a "solid, spacious and fast" vessel that makes for a "highly enjoyable cruising yacht."

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 425 Grand Large is designed to maximize living space and comfort, reflecting the "Grand Large" ethos of voluminous interiors. Typically, the yacht features a layout comprising three double cabins and two heads, making it well-suited for families or entertaining guests. The saloon boasts a generous headroom of approximately 1.98 meters (6.5 feet), enhancing the feeling of spaciousness below deck. The interior often showcases mahogany joinery with a woodprint floor, creating a warm and traditional marine ambiance. For extended cruising comfort, many models are equipped with an Eberspacher diesel ducted hot air heating system, providing warmth to all cabins. The design team's focus on optimizing onboard space means that the ample beam is utilized effectively throughout the interior, providing comfortable living areas, good storage, and practical amenities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour 425 Grand Large generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, often praising the yacht's solid construction and comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway, reinforcing its reputation as an "ocean capable" cruiser. The emphasis on maximizing interior volume and providing a comfortable living environment is a frequently highlighted strength, making it an appealing choice for extended cruising or live-aboard situations. Many owners appreciate the boat's balance of sailing performance and comfort, finding it a highly enjoyable yacht to sail. The careful maintenance and care provided by owners, as noted in some listings, further underscore the appreciation for the boat's quality and design.