Dufour 375 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Dufour 375 Grand Large is built on a hull that prioritizes stability and a predictable motion at sea. With a relatively high ballast ratio—approximately 30% depending on the keel configuration—the boat is notably stiff, allowing it to carry full sail longer than many of its lighter-displacement contemporaries. According to technical assessments in Yachting Monthly, the boat excels in a breeze, exhibiting a balanced feel on the helm thanks to the deep, high-aspect rudder.

The twin steering wheels are more than a stylistic choice; they provide the helmsman with excellent sightlines forward along the windward rail, which is a significant advantage when navigating tight slips or racing through a crowded starting line. While the 375 is not a dedicated racer, its Sail Area/Displacement ratio suggests a boat that is lively enough to satisfy an experienced sailor. However, in light air (under 8 knots), the boat’s significant wetted surface area and cruising-oriented displacement mean it requires a dedicated reaching sail, such as a code zero or gennaker, to maintain momentum. The hull's beam is carried well aft, which provides excellent form stability but can lead to increased drag if the boat is over-canvassed and allowed to heel excessively.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 375 Grand Large is characterized by Dufour’s signature use of Moabi wood, which lends a warm, traditional feel that contrasts with the more clinical "IKEA-style" interiors of some competitors. The layout was offered in two primary configurations: a two-cabin version and a three-cabin variant. In the two-cabin layout, the yacht features a massive port-side lazarette accessible from the cockpit and a significantly larger heads compartment with a separate shower stall. The three-cabin version, built primarily for families or charter use, sacrifices that storage and shower space to accommodate a second symmetrical aft cabin.

One of the most praised features by Sail Magazine is the longitudinal galley (in some variations) or the traditional L-shaped galley, both of which provide excellent bracing points for cooking underway. The salon features a large U-shaped settee and a fixed central table with a built-in wine cellar—a quintessential Dufour touch. Headroom is generous throughout, exceeding 6'3" in the main cabin, making the boat feel significantly larger than its 36-foot waterline would suggest.

The 375 was later updated and rebranded as the Dufour 380 Grand Large. While the hull remained largely identical, the 380 introduced a drop-down bathing platform and revised interior finishes, though the core sailing characteristics remained the same.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a used Dufour 375 with a technical checklist focused on the rig and the auxiliary systems. While the build quality is generally regarded as robust, there are specific areas that require scrutiny:

• Sail Drive Diaphragm: Most 375s were fitted with Volvo Penta engines and sail drives. The rubber seal (diaphragm) has a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval of seven years; many hulls on the market are now overdue for this critical maintenance.
• Rudder Bearing Play: Due to the high loads on the single deep rudder and the complexity of the twin-wheel steering linkage, the Jefa steering system can develop play over time. Buyers should check for "clunking" or vibration when the helm is turned under load.
• Gelcoat Stress Cracking: Common on many production boats of this era, fine spider cracks can often be found in the cockpit corners or near the stanchion bases. While usually cosmetic, they can indicate areas where the deck hardware has been under excessive strain.
• Chainplate Inspection: Although the 375 uses a robust shroud arrangement, the sealant around the deck penetrations for the chainplates should be inspected for leaks to prevent moisture from entering the balsa-cored deck.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 375 Grand Large are supported by a well-established network of enthusiasts. The Dufour Owners Association is the primary hub for technical documentation, including original wiring diagrams and plumbing schematics that are often missing from used vessels. For those in North America, the Dufour Yachts Owners Group provides a platform for discussing region-specific modifications, such as converting European 220V systems to 110V shore power.

The Verdict

The Dufour 375 Grand Large remains one of the most balanced mid-sized cruisers on the secondhand market. It successfully bridges the gap between the utilitarian nature of a charter boat and the refined aesthetics of a private yacht. While it may lack the raw speed of the Dufour "Performance" line, its sea-kindliness and ergonomic cockpit make it an ideal choice for coastal cruising couples.

Pros:

• Superior Cockpit Ergonomics: Twin wheels on a 37-footer create a spacious and functional outdoor living area.
• Stiff and Predictable: High ballast ratio ensures a safe, upright sailing experience in heavy weather.
• Interior Joinery: High-quality Moabi woodwork provides a premium feel compared to contemporary rivals.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: Requires specialized downwind sails to stay competitive in sub-10 knot breezes.
• Storage Trade-offs: The three-cabin version feels cramped and lacks sufficient exterior storage for long-term cruising gear.
• Steering Complexity: The linkage required for twin wheels introduces more potential failure points than a simple single-tiller or single-wheel system.