Dufour 44 Performance Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Dufour 44 Performance marks a significant collaboration between Dufour Yachts and Umberto Felci of Felci Yachts Design, a partnership that began in the early 2000s and profoundly shaped Dufour's "Performance" and "Grand Large" lines. Felci's design philosophy for the 44 Performance aimed to create a yacht that was both spacious below deck and highly capable under sail, emphasizing handling ability even in strong winds. The hull, characterized by a beam carried well forward, was optimized not only for stability and sailing performance but also to maximize interior volume and facilitate easy movement on deck.

Dufour Yachts, founded in 1964 by Michel Dufour, has always been at the forefront of fiberglass boatbuilding, a manufacturing ethos clearly evident in the 44 Performance. The company prides itself on conceiving, designing, and producing all its sailing yachts entirely in La Rochelle, France, utilizing robust fiberglass construction methods. Hulls are typically built of solid fiberglass, with decks meticulously crafted from fiberglass with a PVC foam core for strength and weight optimization. The Dufour 44 Performance was offered with two draft options: a standard deep draft of 7.58 feet (2.31m) and a shallower draft version at 5.77 feet (1.76m), catering to diverse cruising grounds and owner preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 44 Performance lives up to its name, offering an engaging sailing experience. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.6, she possesses a respectable sail plan relative to her displacement, suggesting good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 171 indicates a relatively light to medium displacement vessel for her length overall of 44.85 feet, further underscoring her performance-oriented design. While her Ballast to Displacement (Ballast/D) ratio of approximately 0.325 is modest, it contributes to a responsive feel at the helm.

Anecdotal reports from sailors often praise the Dufour 44's excellent sailing characteristics and balanced handling. The boat is noted for her responsiveness and ability to maintain good speeds, with reported speeds of 6.7-6.8 knots in 14.5 knots of true wind. The Umberto Felci-designed hull and single deep spade rudder contribute to her agile and predictable maneuverability, even when encountering significant wind, without needing twin rudders. Owners generally find her a pleasure to sail, with stability that instills confidence in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its emphasis on performance, the Dufour 44 Performance does not compromise on interior comfort and spaciousness. The yacht's interior is described as refined and luxurious, with layouts designed to offer ample space and functionality. The strategic carrying of the beam well forward contributes significantly to the generous interior volume.

Typically, the Dufour 44 Performance was available in three or four-cabin configurations, catering to different owner needs, from private cruising couples to larger families or charter operations. A common configuration features a comfortable V-berth forward, which serves as the master stateroom, offering approximately 6 feet 2 inches of headroom. This forward area often includes a split head and shower arrangement, enhancing privacy and convenience. Aft, the yacht commonly features port and starboard cabins. The saloon is well-appointed, designed for comfort with ample seating. General fit and finish are considered above average for a production boat of its era, with well-configured stowage throughout the interior, making it suitable for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour 44 Performance consistently express high satisfaction with the yacht's overall performance and build quality. Many praise its excellent sailing capabilities, highlighting its responsiveness and ability to handle diverse conditions effectively. The above-average fit and finish are frequently mentioned, contributing to a positive ownership experience. The blend of a performance-oriented hull with a comfortable and spacious interior is a recurring theme in owner feedback, confirming the design's success in achieving its dual purpose. Owners frequently laud the boat's solid construction and its comfortable motion even in a seaway, reinforcing its reputation as a versatile and capable cruising yacht. While specific common problems are not widely reported, the collective sentiment points to the Dufour 44 Performance as a reliable and enjoyable vessel, appreciated for its effortless handling and maneuverability.