Duo Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Duo in 1961 marked Dupuy Chautard's entry into the burgeoning recreational boating market, a period characterized by significant advancements in fiberglass construction. The shipyard, based in Paris, specialized in small sailing dinghies, aiming to democratize sailing by offering durable and low-maintenance boats. The choice of fiberglass for the Duo's hull was revolutionary at the time, enabling mass production and offering advantages in durability and reduced upkeep compared to traditional wooden boats.

Designed by Alois Roland, who is also credited with the design of the widely recognized Europe dinghy, the Duo reflects a design philosophy focused on simplicity and accessibility. The design prioritized ease of building and transport, with some versions even available as nesting dinghies for convenient storage and portability. The Duo features a fractional sloop rig and a centerboard keel, indicative of its dinghy heritage, allowing for versatile performance in various water depths. Its hull is described as having a very flat stern and a wide "caisson" (trunk), suggesting characteristics aimed at stability and efficient planing for a boat of its size. While there is no indication of MkI or MkII variations, some performance enhancements like slot-in foam-filled wings (hull extensions) were sometimes incorporated to improve speed and fun.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Dupuy Chautard Duo is designed for an engaging sailing experience. With a hull speed of approximately 4.93 knots, it is known as a "fast, fun and safe sailing boat." The fractional sloop rig is well-suited for a dinghy of this size, offering good control and responsiveness, particularly in lighter winds, while its centerboard allows for flexible sailing in shallow waters and improved upwind performance when deployed. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Duo is a manageable boat for sailors of varying skill levels, capable of being righted relatively easily after a capsize, indicating a degree of inherent stability for its class. Its flat-aft hull form contributes to its agility and ability to get up to speed.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 14-foot dinghy, the Dupuy Chautard Duo is fundamentally an open-cockpit boat primarily intended for day sailing, training, or use as a yacht tender. Interior accommodations are minimal to nonexistent, as is typical for boats of this size and type. The design focuses on maximizing cockpit space for crew and efficient handling, rather than offering enclosed living areas. Owners would typically find simple seating arrangements within the open cockpit, with storage limited to small compartments or dry bags for personal gear. The absence of a reported maximum headroom in its specifications underscores its open-deck configuration. While not designed for extended cruising, its functional layout serves its purpose as a versatile and enjoyable small sailboat.