Dufour 520 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

The Dufour 520 Grand Large emerged as a significant evolution within Dufour Yachts' popular Grand Large cruising line, succeeding models like the Dufour 500. Introduced to the public at the Cannes Yachting Festival in 2017, its creation reflects Dufour's long-standing philosophy of producing high-quality, ready-to-sail yachts using advanced fiberglass construction techniques in their La Rochelle facility. This commitment to robust construction is evident in the vessel's solid fiberglass hull and meticulously crafted fiberglass deck.

Naval architect Umberto Felci's collaboration with Dufour has been instrumental in shaping the brand's contemporary identity, emphasizing an assertive design that harmonizes aesthetic appeal with ergonomic functionality. For the 520 Grand Large, Felci's design philosophy aimed to strike a delicate balance, ensuring that the yacht would deliver exhilarating sailing dynamics without compromising the exceptional onboard comfort expected of a modern cruiser. While there aren't specific "MkI vs. MkII" variations mentioned, the Dufour 520 Grand Large was notably designed with flexibility in mind, offering up to four different interior layouts to accommodate various owner preferences, capable of hosting up to 12 guests.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 520 Grand Large is engineered to provide a rewarding sailing experience. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.67, she exhibits a moderate sail plan, suggesting a balanced performance profile that handles well across a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs or excessively burdened in heavy weather. Her displacement to length ratio of around 166.16 indicates a relatively lighter, more performance-oriented hull for its size, contributing to a more responsive feel at the helm.

While the ballast to displacement ratio stands at approximately 0.265, which might appear modest, the yacht's modern bulb keel design and hull form contribute significantly to its inherent stability and stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a good breeze. Reviewers have highlighted the Dufour 520 Grand Large as being "unashamedly designed for cruising," incorporating features that simplify boat-handling, making it manageable even for short-handed crews. Sail tests consistently show that the boat doesn't solely rely on its voluminous interior, but rather "does not forget, at all, the main purpose for which it was conceived: sailing". Maneuvers are often described as running concealed, enhancing both aesthetics and ease of operation. Its design ensures a balance and agility under sail that resonates with the broader Dufour Grand Large line's reputation for responsive yachts.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 520 Grand Large is characterized by spaciousness, elegance, and luxury, making it a highly appealing vessel for extended cruising and entertaining. While specific headroom figures are not universally available, the overall design aims to minimize any feeling of claustrophobia.

The yacht offers considerable flexibility with multiple layout options, accommodating various cabin configurations. For instance, the aft port cabin can be easily converted from a double berth to twin beds, providing versatility for different crew or guest arrangements. The cabins are described as sumptuous, fitted with high-quality materials, reflecting a refined finish.

A notable feature of the Dufour 520 Grand Large is its expansive cockpit, which often includes an outdoor galley complete with a barbecue and a fridge, enhancing the onboard living and entertainment experience. Furthermore, the innovative double electric stern platform facilitates easy access to the water, a significant convenience for swimming or boarding. The design focuses on creating a comfortable and luxurious living space, ensuring utmost comfort for those onboard.

Owner's Perspectives

While extensive synthesized owner reviews detailing common problems or widespread issues are not readily available, the Dufour 520 Grand Large has generally received positive feedback from both the sailing press and owners since its launch. Owners appreciate its balance of performance and comfort, along with its innovative features like the spacious cockpit and convertible stern platform. The emphasis on user-friendly boat handling is also a frequently praised aspect, particularly for those who enjoy cruising short-handed. Isolated incidents, such as a propeller loss at sea, have been reported, but these do not appear to represent systemic issues or common complaints across the owner community. Overall, the yacht maintains a strong reputation for its quality construction and thoughtful design, aligning with Dufour's broader legacy.