Dufour Classic 35 Information, Review, Specs

Dufour Yachts, founded by Michel Dufour, has a long history of embracing fiberglass construction for efficient production and consistent quality, a commitment evident in the solid fiberglass hull and deck construction typical for vessels of this size. The Classic 35 embodies Dufour's vision during the mid-1990s to create a new "Classic" range of yachts, characterized by elegant lines and enhanced interior comfort, setting a new standard for ready-to-sail production boats.

History and Design

The Dufour Classic 35 entered the market in 1995 as part of a significant revitalization of Dufour Yachts' image, which saw the introduction of the entirely new Dufour Classic range. This line aimed to combine classic aesthetics with unprecedented interior comfort and smart design, emphasizing a "ready-to-sail" concept. The design of the Classic 35 was penned by J & J Design, a renowned firm in the marine industry. While the specific design philosophy for the Classic 35 from J & J Design isn't detailed, the overall aim of the Dufour Classic range was to offer a harmonious blend of performance, elegant lines, and a focus on liveability. Production of the Classic 35 was relatively short-lived as it was succeeded by the Dufour 36 Classic, an evolution designed to offer more headroom, introduced in 1996. A similar boat was also marketed as the Stardust 353, and a shoal draft option of 4.5 feet was available. It is important to distinguish the Dufour Classic 35 from the earlier Dufour 35 model, which was produced from 1972 to 1982 and featured a different design ethos.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour Classic 35, with its moderate displacement and well-proportioned sail plan, provides a comfortable yet engaging sailing experience. Its Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.9 suggests a boat that performs adequately across a range of wind conditions, though it may require more breeze to truly come alive compared to lighter, more performance-oriented designs. The Ballast to Displacement Ratio of around 31.1% indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind, though some sources suggest her comfort value is just below average for similar designs, potentially implying a slightly more tender motion in certain conditions. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 203, the Classic 35 falls squarely into the category of a moderate cruiser, balancing weight for comfort and load-carrying ability with sufficient performance. Generally, the Classic line of Dufour is recognized for its excellent sailing characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite the limited detailed specifications in the raw data, the Dufour Classic 35 is noted for its spacious and well-considered interior layout, a hallmark of the Classic range's focus on comfort. The typical arrangement includes generous private double cabins both forward and aft, providing ample sleeping quarters. The saloon is designed for comfortable living, sometimes featuring blue upholstery. The galley is well-equipped for cruising, featuring a two-burner gas stove with an oven, a stainless steel sink with hot and cold pressurized water, and plenty of storage capacity, catering to longer stays on board. The interior often features a "classic" finish, and the cockpit typically incorporates teak for enhanced aesthetics and grip. Overall, the layout aims to maximize liveability and functionality for cruising families or couples.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Dufour Classic 35 for its above-average build quality, a consistent strong point across the Dufour Classic line. The brand generally cultivates a strong and active global community of enthusiasts, indicating a positive ownership experience. Many owners keep their systems well-maintained, and some vessels have benefited from significant upgrades over time, including new rigging and sails. While no widespread common problems are prominently cited, some forum discussions occasionally touch upon general maintenance aspects common to boats of its age, such as checking rigging tension. There have been isolated questions regarding potential issues like balsa-cored deck leaks, though this is not presented as a confirmed recurring fault. The vessel is generally regarded as a solid, reliable cruiser, capable of offering comfortable and enjoyable sailing.