Dufour 4800 Information, Review, Specs

The Dufour 4800 emerged from Dufour Yachts' commitment to innovation in fiberglass boatbuilding during the early 1980s. Founded by Michel Dufour, the company was known for embracing polyester (fiberglass) as a construction material, allowing for efficient production and consistent quality. During this era, Dufour Yachts worked to develop a distinct brand image with models like the 4800. The design brief for the 4800, reportedly ordered by Bruno Bich, who was then running Dufour, was to create a yacht suitable for both cruising and racing in the USA, leveraging Valentijn's experience, which included designing America's Cup boats. Approximately 250 units of the Dufour 4800 were built during its production run.

The Dufour 4800 was offered with several variations, catering to different sailing preferences. These included standard and 'offshore/racing' layouts, providing options for cruising comfort or a more performance-oriented setup. A shoal draft version was also available, reducing the maximum draft from 6.0 feet to 4.92 feet (1.5m). Additionally, a tall (masthead) rig option was offered alongside the standard rig, and while the primary engine was a Volvo Penta MD2B diesel, some boats were delivered with Perkins diesel engines. Hulls were typically constructed of solid fiberglass, with decks also meticulously crafted from fiberglass, a testament to Dufour's robust building methods.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.19, the Dufour 4800 presents a moderate performance profile, suggesting it will perform capably across a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavy air. Its ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.409, indicates a good level of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion offshore. The displacement to length ratio of roughly 258 places the Dufour 4800 in the medium-heavy displacement category, characteristic of a robust cruiser designed for comfortable passage-making rather than ultralight racing.

Anecdotal evidence and reviews from its time suggest that the Dufour 4800 was reputed to offer very good performance under sail. Owners describe it as a "no fuss boat," indicating straightforward handling characteristics. Its design, with a fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, generally provides a good balance between maneuverability and directional stability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 4800 was designed to offer comfortable living spaces suitable for cruising, with the ability to accommodate up to nine people, likely referring to its full complement for racing or occasional overnight guests rather than extended cruising. Reviews mention a double aft cabin, often equipped with its own washbasin, adding a degree of privacy and convenience. The galley was considered adequate for use in a seaway, indicating practical design for offshore cooking.

While specific details on maximum headroom are not readily available in all specifications, the general interior and deck layout have been praised by owners. Typical layouts for boats of this vintage would feature a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a salon with settees that convert into berths, and a functional galley. The quality of finish and use of materials, often incorporating wood trim alongside fiberglass, contributed to a warm and traditional marine interior feel, consistent with Dufour's reputation for well-crafted production boats.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour 4800 often highlight its solid construction and overall reliability as key strengths. Given the vintage, a common maintenance point noted by owners is the need to replace the original engine, with many opting to upgrade from the Volvo MD11C to newer, more powerful units like a 27 HP Yanmar. While considered a "no fuss boat," like many vessels of its age, owners may encounter typical wear and tear issues such such as leaks or structural considerations requiring attention over time. The enduring appeal of the Dufour 4800 in the used boat market speaks to its fundamental design and robust construction.