Dufour F39 Information, Review, Specs

Dufour Yachts, founded by Michel Dufour in 1964, established itself as a pioneer in fiberglass boatbuilding, committed to creating high-quality, ready-to-sail production boats. The F39 represents a period where Dufour continued to refine its approach to combining performance with comfort, building on a legacy that began with successes like the Arpège 30.

History and Design

The Dufour F39, introduced in 1984, marks a significant collaboration for Dufour Yachts, as its design is attributed to the renowned naval architect German Frers. Frers' design philosophy is evident in the F39's attractive and performance-oriented hull, which contrasts with some of the more traditional interiors seen in Dufour models of that era. While the builder's article highlights Dufour's later partnership with Umberto Felci, the F39 predates this extensive collaboration, showcasing Frers' influence on its lines. Dufour's manufacturing ethos during this period emphasized solid fiberglass construction for hulls, ensuring durability and consistent quality, a hallmark that applied to vessels like the F39. The F39's production run reportedly extended until 1996, indicating its sustained popularity in the market.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour F39, designed with a masthead sloop rig, boasts a reported sail area of 669 square feet. To understand its performance characteristics qualitatively, we can interpret its key ratios:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D): With a sail area of 668.72 sq ft and a displacement of 14,960 lbs, the calculated SA/D ratio for the Dufour F39 is approximately 16.7. This ratio suggests that the F39 is a capable cruiser, offering a good balance between performance and ease of handling. A ratio in this range indicates that the boat will perform adequately in lighter airs while being manageable and stable as the wind picks up, fitting into the performance-cruiser category.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D): The F39 has a ballast of 6,990 lbs and a displacement of 14,960 lbs, resulting in a ballast ratio of approximately 46.7%. A ballast ratio in this range (around 40% or higher) typically indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining its sail plan. This contributes to a secure and comfortable motion in a seaway.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L): Given its displacement of 14,960 lbs and a waterline length (LWL) of 30.5 ft, the Dufour F39 has a D/L ratio of approximately 220. This places the F39 in the medium-displacement category, suggesting a design that prioritizes a balance of speed and comfort. Boats in this range are generally considered good all-around performers, capable of reasonable speeds while still providing a comfortable ride, especially suited for coastal cruising and longer passages.

Anecdotal descriptions of the German Frers-designed Dufour 39 (F39) consistently praise its excellent sailing characteristics and balance. Owners often highlight its responsive nature, making it an enjoyable boat to helm across various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not detailed in the provided data, the Dufour F39, being a nearly 40-foot vessel, is designed to offer ample interior volume and comfortable living spaces. General descriptions of Dufour interiors, especially those from subsequent models like the Dufour 390, often emphasize ergonomics, refinement, and a blend of functionality and design.

Typical layouts for a boat of this size usually include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley, and a head (bathroom). Reviewers and owners of similar Dufour models praise the significant use of solid wood trim, contributing to a warm and traditional aesthetic. Storage is generally well-considered, providing ample space for cruising gear and provisions. While direct information on the F39's ventilation isn't readily available, Dufour's design philosophy typically incorporates good airflow for comfort at anchor. Owners of Dufour yachts often appreciate the combination of practical layouts with a focus on creating a comfortable living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour F39 (often referred to interchangeably with the Frers 39) generally hold a positive view of the vessel, frequently praising its solid construction and excellent sailing performance. The German Frers design is widely appreciated for its elegant lines and good handling characteristics. The F39 is often seen as a robust and well-built boat, indicative of Dufour's commitment to quality during its era of production, where hulls were typically constructed of solid fiberglass.

While comprehensive forums specifically dedicated to recurring issues for the F39 are not extensively documented in available search results, the general consensus among Dufour owners from this period points to the longevity and durability of these vessels. As with any boat of its age, potential maintenance considerations might include the need for updates to original systems or occasional re-bedding of deck fittings, but these are common for any well-used sailboat. Owners consistently value the F39 for its ability to deliver a satisfying balance of performance under sail and a comfortable platform for cruising.