Dufour Classic 45 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Dufour Classic 45 in 1988 marked another chapter in Dufour Yachts' rich history of innovative fiberglass boatbuilding. Founded by Michel Dufour in 1964, the company quickly became a pioneer in using polyester (fiberglass) for high-quality, ready-to-sail production boats. Dufour's ethos, consistent throughout the era of the Classic 45's creation, emphasized robust construction, with hulls typically built of solid fiberglass and decks meticulously crafted from fiberglass at their La Rochelle facility in France. The design philosophy behind the Classic 45 aimed to create a voluminous hull capable of providing extensive accommodation, striking a delicate balance between exhilarating sailing performance and exceptional onboard comfort, a hallmark of Dufour's assertive design. While specific major variations like "MkI" or "MkII" are not commonly noted, the model was offered with different interior layouts, including a spacious two-cabin configuration highlighted for its particularly large owner's cabin.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour Classic 45 is engineered to offer a capable and balanced sailing experience, aligning with its design as a powerful cruiser. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.84, she is indicative of a boat with good all-around performance, capable of moving well in light to moderate winds while maintaining control in stronger conditions. Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.36 suggests a moderate degree of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a breeze without excessive heeling. Furthermore, with a displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 206.17, the Classic 45 falls into the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, promising a comfortable motion in a seaway and a solid feel underfoot. Owners and reviewers often describe the Dufour Classic 45 as a boat that sails and handles well, indicating a good balance and responsiveness at the helm. She is noted for her ability to "knock off the miles," affirming her capability as a passage maker.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with ample accommodation as a primary goal, the interior of the Dufour Classic 45 is thoughtfully arranged to provide comfort and functionality for extended cruising. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design brief emphasized spaciousness. The interior typically features a pleasant, traditional feel, often characterized by dark mahogany woodwork, which contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Common layouts include a forward V-berth, a head, a comfortable salon with seating and a dining area, a well-appointed galley, and aft cabins, sometimes offering a two-cabin configuration with a notably large owner's cabin. Storage is generally generous, catering to the needs of cruisers, and ventilation is provided through opening hatches and ports, contributing to a comfortable living environment at anchor or dockside.