Dufour 27 Information, Review, Specs

While the Dufour 27 is often viewed as a standalone model, it shares significant DNA with its predecessor, the Safari 27. The Safari was slightly narrower and more performance-oriented, whereas the Dufour 27 widened the beam to 3.00 meters (9.8 feet) to maximize internal living space. This hull was later succeeded by the Dufour 2800 in 1977, which refined the aesthetic but maintained the core philosophy of a 27-to-28-foot cruiser capable of coastal hops and light offshore work.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Dufour 27 is characterized by a high displacement-to-length ratio, which translates to a "big boat" feel despite its modest length. With a displacement of approximately 2,300 kg (5,070 lbs) and a ballast ratio of nearly 40%, the boat is notably stiff. Under sail, it exhibits the typical characteristics of a 1970s IOR-influenced design: a relatively narrow waterline that flares into a wide beam, which provides high initial stability but can lead to increased weather helm if over-pressed.

Handling is generally described as predictable and forgiving. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration allows for a tight turning circle, though the spade rudder of this era can feel "heavy" compared to modern balanced rudders. In light airs, the boat’s significant wetted surface area can make it sluggish; however, as the breeze picks up to 12–15 knots, the hull finds its groove. Historical reviews from French publication Voiles et Voiliers have noted that the boat tracks exceptionally well for a 27-footer, making it a reliable partner for solo sailors or small crews navigating choppy coastal waters.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its vintage, the Dufour 27 was considered remarkably spacious. Michel Dufour utilized the nearly 10-foot beam to create an "open plan" feel that was ahead of its time. The standard layout features a V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head (manual marine toilet and washbasin). In the main saloon, the arrangement typically includes a settee to starboard and an L-shaped dinette to port that converts into a double berth.

The woodwork is predominantly teak or mahogany marine plywood, which provides a warm, traditional atmosphere. Headroom is a standout feature, reaching approximately 1.78 meters (5'10"), which was rare for 27-footers in the early 1970s. The galley is functional but compact, usually located to port of the companionway, while a dedicated chart table sits to starboard—a hallmark of Dufour's commitment to "real" navigation even on smaller models. While there were no major structural variations, some hulls were fitted with the optional Volvo Penta MD6A or MD7A inboard diesel engines, while others were equipped with lighter Renault Marine Couach units.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Dufour 27 with an understanding of its age, focusing on three primary technical areas. First, the original "balsa-cored" decks should be thoroughly tested for delamination or soft spots, particularly around the chainplates and stanchion bases where water ingress can rot the core. Second, while the solid fiberglass hulls are generally resistant to structural failure, early 1970s resin was prone to osmotic blistering; a moisture meter check or a visual "bubble" inspection of the hull below the waterline is essential.

Mechanical reliability is the third major concern. Many Dufour 27s still carry their original 10-15 hp Volvo Penta engines. These units are often at the end of their service life, and parts availability for the MD6A/7A series is dwindling. Buyers should look for boats that have been re-powered with modern Yanmar or Beta Marine diesels. Finally, inspect the rudder stock and the spade rudder for water saturation or play in the bearings, as these are common wear points on Dufour models of this vintage.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Dufour 27 is preserved by a dedicated network of owners, primarily centered in Europe. The Association Voiles Dufour provides a technical repository for classic models, including the 27, offering original blueprints and maintenance advice. In the United Kingdom and North America, owners often congregate in general Dufour forums, though the most technical documentation remains within the French-speaking community where the boat was most prolific.

The Verdict

The Dufour 27 remains a "pocket cruiser" that punches above its weight in terms of seaworthiness and interior volume. It is an ideal entry-level boat for a couple or a young family looking to experience traditional sailing without the complexity of modern systems.

Pros:

• Excellent headroom and interior volume for its class.
• Heavy-displacement build provides a stable, secure motion in a seaway.
• Classic Michel Dufour lines that have aged gracefully.
• Highly active second-hand market with manageable maintenance costs.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds due to weight and wetted surface.
• Aging original engines frequently require replacement.
• Potential for deck core rot if deck hardware hasn't been re-bedded.
• The spade rudder lacks the protection of a skeg, requiring care in shallow waters.