Drakkar 24 Information, Review, Specs

The Drakkar 24 emerged in 2015 as Dufour Yachts, a company with a long history of pioneering fiberglass construction since its founding by Michel Dufour in 1964, sought a new direction in the smaller boat market. While Dufour is globally recognized for its robustly built cruising yachts, often featuring solid fiberglass hulls and meticulously crafted fiberglass decks, the Drakkar 24 reflects a contemporary collaboration with naval architect Umberto Felci, who aimed to create a boat that was both lively and versatile. The design brief for the Drakkar 24 focused on an "open boat tradition," aiming to deliver an enjoyable and stress-free sailing experience. A key design element is its ballasted centerboard, allowing for a variable draft from a shallow 0.66 feet to a deeper 4.92 feet, which significantly enhances its versatility for trailer-sailing, dry storage, and navigating shallow waters. Although a specific end year for its production run is not consistently stated across all sources, it was actively built between 2015 and 2018.

Sailing Performance and Handling

True to its design intent, the Dufour Drakkar 24 offers a sailing experience that is widely described as lively, fun, and engaging. With a length overall of 23 feet and a waterline length of 22.15 feet, it navigates a sweet spot for responsive handling. The boat is characterized as a "big dinghy" due to its nimble nature and open cockpit layout, making it particularly appealing for day sailing and coastal excursions. Its sporty asymmetric rig contributes to its exhilarating performance, especially when reaching or off the wind. The retractable keel, a defining feature, not only allows for shallow water access and easy trailering but also provides the necessary stability for an enjoyable sail in various conditions. Owners and reviewers often highlight its balanced helm and predictable behavior, underscoring its design for sailing pleasure rather than high-performance racing.

Accommodations and Layout

The Dufour Drakkar 24, with its primary purpose as a daysailer and club boat, features a design optimized for open-air enjoyment rather than extensive interior living. The accommodations are basic, reflecting its focus on simplicity and ease of use. The boat features an open aft cockpit layout, which provides ample space for crew and comfortable seating during sailing. While precise headroom figures are not specified, the interior is typically understood to be a rudimentary cabin, suitable primarily for shelter or very basic overnighting. Storage is intelligently integrated, with a notable amount available beneath the cockpit seats, designed to accommodate essential gear for a day out on the water. The overall design prioritizes robustness and low maintenance, utilizing solid fiberglass for both the hull and deck construction, in line with Dufour's long-standing commitment to durable boatbuilding.