Dufour 48 Prestige Information, Review, Specs

The Dufour 48 Prestige entered production in 1992, marking its place within Dufour's "Prestige" line, which saw several models launched between 1990 and 1994. This period aligned with Dufour Yachts' established reputation for pioneering fiberglass construction. Founded by Michel Dufour in 1964, the company quickly embraced polyester (fiberglass) as a revolutionary boatbuilding material, allowing for efficient production and consistent quality. The Dufour 48 Prestige was built with a solid fiberglass hull and fiberglass deck, consistent with the robust construction methods that characterized Dufour's vessels of that era. While specific design philosophies beyond general performance cruising goals for this particular model are not widely documented, Jean Berret's designs are generally known for their emphasis on sailing efficiency and balance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 48 feet and a waterline length of 42 feet, the Dufour 48 Prestige is designed to offer competitive performance for a cruiser of her size and era. Her reported sail area of 1291 square feet, combined with a displacement of 29,762 pounds, yields a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 21.5. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Dufour 48 Prestige is likely a lively performer, capable of moving well in lighter winds while still maintaining good speed as the breeze builds.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at approximately 0.319 (9,500 lbs ballast to 29,762 lbs displacement). This indicates a moderate amount of ballast relative to her total weight, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than an overly stiff or tender feel. Her Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at around 179, places her in the light to moderate displacement category, affirming her design as a performance cruiser rather than a heavy, traditional displacement vessel. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration, typical for performance cruisers of her time, would contribute to responsive handling and effective tracking.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed interior layouts and specific descriptions for the 1992 Dufour 48 Prestige are not extensively documented in widely available resources. However, drawing from general Dufour design principles of the era, it can be inferred that the yacht would have offered a functional and comfortable interior typical of a cruising vessel of her size. Dufour has historically focused on balancing performance with onboard comfort, suggesting a well-appointed living space. The interior would likely feature a traditional layout, possibly with a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a functional galley, and aft cabins or quarter berths. Given the builder's reputation, the finish would likely involve quality materials, often featuring wood trim alongside fiberglass elements, emphasizing durability and a classic marine aesthetic.