Dufour 1800/25 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Dufour 1800 is widely regarded as a stiff and capable performer, particularly in a breeze. With a ballast ratio approaching 45% on many hull variants, the boat carries its sail area well without excessive heeling. According to technical archives from the Dufour Association, the boat was offered with two main keel configurations: a deep fin keel for optimized upwind performance and a shallow-draft version for coastal gunkholing.

Under sail, the Cordelle-designed hull displays a balanced temperament. The masthead sloop rig is relatively simple to tune, and the boat tracks well thanks to a well-proportioned skeg-mounted rudder. Owners frequently report that the 1800 feels larger than its 25 feet, exhibiting a "big boat" motion in choppy coastal waters. While it is not a dedicated light-air racer by modern standards, its generous beam provides the form stability needed to maintain momentum when the wind picks up, making it a favorite for "Round the Island" style club racing in the UK and France.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its era and size, the interior of the Dufour 1800 was remarkably innovative. The cabin utilizes the boat’s 8.8-foot beam to create a sense of spaciousness that was rare in the late 70s. The standard layout features a V-berth in the bow, separated from the main saloon by a hanging locker and a compact head compartment. The saloon itself typically includes two longitudinal settees that double as berths, with a clever folding table that can be stowed against the bulkhead to clear the cabin sole.

Materials inside are characteristic of Dufour Yachts of that period, featuring extensive use of molded GRP liners combined with warm teak or mahogany joinery. One notable variation is the galley arrangement; while most units featured a fixed galley to port with a gimbaled stove and sink, some "Club" or "CS" (Club Special) versions were streamlined for racing, featuring lighter internal modules. The headroom is approximately 5'9", which is generous for a 25-footer but may feel tight for taller sailors.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Dufour 1800 should focus their inspection on a few specific areas common to French production boats of this vintage:

• Deck Delamination: Like many boats of this era, the 1800 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress through poorly bedded deck hardware or stanchion bases can lead to soft spots, particularly around the mast step and the cockpit sole.
• Osmotic Blistering: While Dufour hulls are generally robust, the polyester resins used in the early 80s are susceptible to osmosis. A professional moisture meter reading of the hull below the waterline is highly recommended.
• Engine Maintenance: Many units were originally fitted with the Volvo Penta MD5A or the Yanmar 1GM10. These are reliable engines, but at 40+ years old, buyers should check for exhaust elbow clogging and sail-drive seal integrity (if applicable).
• Window Seals: The acrylic side windows are prone to crazing and leaking over time. Replacing the seals or re-bonding the windows is a common "first project" for new owners.

Community & Resources

The Dufour 1800 enjoys continued support from a dedicated community of European and North American sailors. The most prominent technical resource is the Dufour Association, which maintains a repository of original brochures, tuning guides, and owner manuals. These documents are vital for owners looking to restore a vessel to its original factory specifications or source specific hardware dimensions.

The Verdict

The Dufour 1800 remains one of the most cost-effective entries into the world of coastal cruising. It offers a blend of French style, robust construction, and predictable handling that suits both novice sailors and experienced cruisers downsizing to a more manageable platform.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and stiffness for a 25-foot boat.
• Spacious, well-thought-out interior that accommodates a small family.
• Strong build quality from a reputable manufacturer.
• Active owner associations provide a wealth of technical data.

Cons:

• Aged electronics and original engines often require significant updates.
• The balsa-cored deck requires careful inspection for moisture damage.
• Limited headroom for sailors over six feet tall.