Dufour 500 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Dufour 500 Grand Large was introduced in 2011, with its production run concluding in 2015 before being updated to the Dufour Grand Large 512 in 2016. During this era, Dufour Yachts, headquartered in La Rochelle, France, maintained a strong manufacturing ethos focused on creating high-quality, ready-to-sail production boats using fiberglass. The company, founded by Michel Dufour, has always emphasized robust construction, with hulls often built of solid fiberglass and decks meticulously crafted from fiberglass with a foam core.

The design philosophy behind the Dufour 500 Grand Large, spearheaded by Umberto Felci, aimed to optimize the sailing experience through a fusion of design, performance, and comfort. Felci's influence is evident in the yacht's sleek lines, modern design, plumb bow, and full beam carried well aft, featuring a visible hard chine – characteristics commonly found on contemporary performance-oriented cruising yachts. This design was revolutionary for its time, with the 500 Grand Large being noted as having opened the path for subsequent models like the Dufour 410 Grand Large. Dufour also incorporated a distinctive large bulb keel, a feature that has been part of their yacht designs for decades.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 500 Grand Large is designed to deliver a smooth and exhilarating sailing experience, balancing performance with comfortable cruising. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.2, the 500 Grand Large exhibits good light-air performance, suggesting it can move efficiently even in moderate breezes. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 166 indicates a relatively light displacement for a vessel of its length (44.85 feet at the waterline), further contributing to its spirited performance characteristics. The yacht's bulb keel and spade rudder contribute to its efficiency and responsiveness.

Despite its substantial size, with a length overall of 49.54 feet and a beam of 15.75 feet, the Dufour 500 Grand Large is described as feeling nimble and easy on the helm, even in light wind conditions. Owners and reviewers frequently praise its smooth handling, balance, and the ease with which it can be sailed. Its hull speed is approximately 8.97 knots, reflecting its capability for swift passage making.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 500 Grand Large is celebrated for its spaciousness, meticulous design, and luxurious accommodations, making it ideal for extended cruising or charter. The yacht typically features a four-cabin layout, capable of accommodating up to ten guests, making it suitable for larger families or groups.

Common interior arrangements include a large owner's suite forward, often with an island berth and separate head and shower compartments. The saloon is generally generous, featuring a large table that can often fold down to create an additional double berth. The galley is well-appointed, and the overall finish quality is characterized by modern design and comfortable amenities. Reviewers have noted the "modern design" and "absolute comfort" of the interior, with ample living space throughout. The Dufour 500 Grand Large was also innovative, with one of its features being an optional outdoor galley complete with a grill, a concept later seen in subsequent Dufour models.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour 500 Grand Large frequently highlight its solid construction and the overall quality associated with Dufour Yachts' French craftsmanship. Many appreciate the boat's comfortable motion in a seaway, a testament to its design as a capable cruiser. The spacious interiors and well-thought-out layouts are consistently praised for enhancing the liveaboard and entertaining experience. Owners often laud the balance between performance and comfort, finding it a versatile yacht suitable for both lively sailing and relaxed anchoring.

While specific recurring weaknesses or common maintenance issues are not widely reported in a collective manner, the general sentiment among owners points towards satisfaction with its features and sailing characteristics. Its evolution into the Dufour Grand Large 512 also indicates a continuous refinement of the platform based on owner feedback and market trends.