Dufour 61 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Dufour 61 began its production in 2020, positioning itself as the new flagship in the esteemed Dufour range. Designed by Umberto Felci of Felci Yacht Design, this yacht embodies a philosophy that prioritizes both assertive aesthetics and high-performance sailing. Dufour Yachts, founded by Michel Dufour in 1964, has a long-standing tradition of embracing fiberglass construction for efficiency and consistent quality, a method evident in the solid fiberglass hull and meticulously crafted deck of the Dufour 61, produced at their state-of-the-art facility in La Rochelle, France. The collaboration with Umberto Felci, which has been a cornerstone of Dufour's design approach for nearly a decade, ensures that the 61 offers both distinctive lines and robust sailing characteristics, aiming to create a "perfect cruising machine". As a relatively new model, the Dufour 61 has not undergone significant variations during its initial production run, maintaining its consistent design as a high-end cruising yacht.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour 61 is designed to offer a balanced and confident sailing experience, even for smaller crews on a substantial vessel. With a reported sail area of approximately 1,980 square feet and a displacement of around 53,242 pounds (24,150 kg), its Sail Area to Displacement ratio calculates to approximately 22.61. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Dufour 61 is capable of strong performance even in lighter air, ensuring enjoyable sailing across a broader range of wind conditions.

The yacht's Ballast to Displacement ratio, derived from its 14,330 pounds (6,500 kg) of keel weight, stands at approximately 0.27. While this figure is on the lower side for ultimate stiffness, it is consistent with modern cruising yacht designs that utilize form stability from their wide beams to contribute significantly to their overall stability. Anecdotal reports describe the Dufour 61 as a "solid performer" that "will take the seas in stride," implying a stable and secure motion underway. Its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 275.87 indicates that it is a moderately heavy cruising yacht, designed for comfort and seakindliness rather than outright racing performance, yet still capable of satisfying speeds. The design ensures that while the boat looks fast and light, it feels strong and friendly, making it manageable and enjoyable for its owners.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dufour 61 is characterized by a neat, bright, and spacious environment, reflecting its status as a luxury cruising yacht. While specific maximum headroom figures are not provided, the generous beam of 17.98 feet allows for an expansive living space. The Dufour 61 offers multiple layout options, typically including 3 to 4 cabins and 3 to 4 heads, providing flexibility to suit various owner preferences.

A distinctive feature of the interior is Dufour's signature split galley, which can be configured as a longitudinal galley on the port side, often situated a step down from the main saloon area. This design maximizes space in the saloon while offering a highly functional and well-equipped culinary area. The boat emphasizes natural light, with large overhead skylights enhancing the bright and airy feel of the saloon and dining areas. General finish quality is high, with attention paid to materials and ergonomics, creating a comfortable and luxurious living space ideal for extended cruising or entertaining. Options for interior finishes, such as the "Boston décor," allow for personalization.