Dufour 56 Information, Review, Specs

Dufour Yachts, a company with over six decades of pioneering fiberglass boatbuilding, has established a global reputation for innovative design and robust construction. The Dufour 56 embodies this philosophy, representing a significant offering in their range that blends sophisticated aesthetics with practical sailing functionality.

History and Design

While the specific production lineage of the "Dufour 56" as per the provided data indicates a start in 1994, the model prominently reviewed and recognized in recent years, often referred to as the Dufour 56 Exclusive, represents a modern evolution, having succeeded models like the Dufour 560 which debuted around 2015. This evolution underscores Dufour's continuous refinement of its large yacht offerings. The design of the Dufour 56 is deeply rooted in the collaborative expertise of Dufour Yachts and Umberto Felci, who is instrumental in shaping the exceptional hulls and distinctive lines of contemporary Dufour yachts. The design philosophy behind the Dufour 56 was to create a spacious and luxurious yacht that could still be easily sailed by its owners, integrating as much comfort and high-end amenities as possible within a performance-oriented hull shape. Notably, the Dufour 56 was made available with both center and aft cockpit configurations, offering flexibility to suit different cruising preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 38,500 pounds and a waterline length of 54.75 feet, the Dufour 56 exhibits a Displacement-Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 105. This relatively low D/L ratio for a yacht of its size suggests a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel, indicative of its design goal to offer spirited sailing. Anecdotal evidence from reviews consistently praises the Dufour 56 for its balanced hull and agreeable handling characteristics. The yacht is often equipped with features like a self-tacking jib and a German mainsheet system, contributing to its reputation for easy handling, even for a large vessel, allowing for sail control from the cockpit. Despite its emphasis on comfort, the Dufour 56 is noted for its ability to perform well, even with conveniences like in-mast reefing, demonstrating its "up to the mark" sailing capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 56 is characterized by a refined and high-end layout, meticulously designed to ensure a comfortable life on board. Dufour has catered to diverse owner needs by offering five different interior layout styles, including specific configurations suited for charter operations that feature separate crew cabins. The master cabin, typically situated in the bow, is notably spacious. Interior design emphasizes the preference for natural materials, contributing to an inviting and luxurious ambiance. Attention has been paid to practical aspects such as storage solutions, which are well-addressed within the yacht's design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and yachtsmen have played a significant role in the ongoing evolution of the Dufour 56. When the shipyard's architects updated the boat, they actively incorporated feedback and suggestions from existing owners, primarily focusing on refining details and styling to keep the yacht current. Owners often laud the Dufour 56 for its successful blend of luxury and performance, appreciating the comprehensive features designed for easy handling of such a large yacht. While general advice for Dufour owners often includes inspecting the structural integrity of the hull, keel, and deck, particularly for older models, no pervasive or specific common problems unique to the Dufour 56 have been widely reported in owner forums or reviews. The focus from the owner community generally centers on the yacht's comfort, sailing enjoyment, and the well-thought-out design.