Dufour Safari 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Safari 27 is rooted in Michel Dufour's pioneering vision to produce high-quality, ready-to-sail fiberglass boats, a revolutionary concept when he founded Dufour Yachts in 1964. Following the success of the iconic Arpège 30, Dufour continued to expand its lineup, and the Safari 27 was introduced in 1969. Dufour's commitment to robust construction is evident in the Safari 27, which, like many Dufour hulls under 50 feet from that era, was typically built of solid fiberglass. The design philosophy behind the Safari 27 aimed to offer a compact cruiser that provided enjoyable sailing characteristics. Notably, a prototype of the Safari 27 was the winner of the 1967 1/2 Ton Cup in La Rochelle, France, highlighting its early performance pedigree. While specific MkI or MkII variations are not widely documented, it is noted that there was a model of the Dufour 27 without a deck saloon, contrasting with the "Safari" model, suggesting some design distinctions within the broader 27-foot range.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dufour Safari 27 is a masthead sloop with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for offering good maneuverability. Owners frequently commend the Safari 27 for its solid construction and good sailing performance, including its ability to sail well to windward. With a reported sail area of 319 square feet and a displacement of 5,940 pounds, the boat is generally considered responsive for its size. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the Safari 27 performs capably in various conditions. While it is described as being faster than many similar designs in light winds, some sources also indicate it can be prone to sluggish performance in very light conditions. Its design allows for ease of handling, with some owners finding it suitable for single-handing while still accommodating several people in the cockpit.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 27 feet, the Dufour Safari 27 is designed to offer practical accommodations for cruising. The interior typically features a V-berth forward, providing sleeping quarters. A head compartment is usually located near the forward cabin. The salon often includes settees that can serve as additional berths, and a galley area, though compact, allows for basic meal preparation. Some models offer a notable headroom of up to 1.90 meters (approximately 6 feet 2 inches), which contributes significantly to the feeling of space and freedom of movement below deck for a boat of this size. Storage is generally considered ample for weekend trips and shorter cruises. The use of fiberglass for both hull and deck, a hallmark of Dufour's construction during this period, provided a durable and relatively low-maintenance interior structure, often complemented by wood trim.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dufour Safari 27 frequently express satisfaction with its robust build quality and seaworthy characteristics. Many praise its reliability and ability to handle various sailing conditions with confidence. It is often viewed as an excellent choice for a first sailboat or for those looking for an affordable and manageable cruising vessel for weekend trips or extended adventures. The cockpit is generally regarded as spacious enough to comfortably fit four adults. Common praises include its solid feel underfoot and its comfortable motion in a seaway. While no pervasive "common problems" are widely reported, as with any boat of its age, potential buyers might consider routine checks for original deck fittings and through-hull connections. The active online community and forums dedicated to Dufour owners often serve as a valuable resource for advice and shared experiences.