Dufour 390 Grand Large Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The 390 Grand Large is designed for stability and ease of handling, reflecting its identity as a modern coastal cruiser. By utilizing a hard chine that begins low in the bow and extends to the transom, the hull provides significant form stability. As noted in editorial testing by Sail Magazine, this hull shape allows the boat to remain relatively upright even when pressed, which reduces weather helm and increases passenger comfort.

With a Displacement/Length ratio of approximately 165 and a Sail Area/Displacement ratio hovering near 20 (depending on the rig configuration), the 390 is surprisingly sprightly in light air for a high-volume cruiser. The yacht features a high-aspect-ratio fractional rig, often paired with a self-tacking jib for ease of shorthanded sailing, though a larger 108% overlapping genoa is available for those seeking better performance in light winds. According to technical assessments by Yachting Monthly, the twin-rudder-like feel from the deep single spade rudder provides excellent grip when the boat is heeled on its chine, ensuring the helm remains responsive and light even in gusty conditions.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 390 Grand Large is where the hull's massive volume becomes most apparent. Dufour offers three distinct layout variations to suit different needs: a two-cabin/two-head configuration (ideal for owners), a three-cabin/two-head version, and a rare three-cabin/three-head layout designed specifically for the charter industry—a feat seldom seen on a boat under 40 feet.

The cabinetry is typically finished in Moabi or light oak, with a focus on natural light provided by expansive deckhouse windows and hull ports. The galley is traditionally L-shaped to port, though the 390 maintains the Dufour hallmark of integrated luxury, such as the optional "Plancha" gas grill and sink hidden under the aft cockpit seats. This outdoor galley, combined with a wide drop-down swim platform, creates an expansive "beach club" feel. Sibling models like the smaller Dufour 360 and the larger 430 share this DNA, but the 390 is often cited as the "sweet spot" in the range, offering the three-head option usually reserved for 45-foot vessels without sacrificing the intimacy of a mid-sized yacht.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the 390 Grand Large is a relatively recent addition to the Dufour fleet, it gained immediate industry recognition upon its debut. It was notably nominated for the European Yacht of the Year award in the Family Cruiser category shortly after its launch. Its visibility is bolstered by its popularity in premium Mediterranean and Caribbean charter fleets, where it is frequently highlighted by agencies as the premier choice for groups requiring multiple en-suite heads in a manageable 39-foot frame.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Potential buyers of a used Dufour 390 should focus on a few specific areas common to modern production yachts and this specific hull type:

• S-Drive Seal and Maintenance: Most 390s are equipped with the Volvo Penta D1-30 or D2-40 engine with a sail drive. Ensure the diaphragm seal is within its service life (usually 7 years) and check for any signs of water in the gear oil.
• Electrical System Complexity: The 390 utilizes a digital switching system for some functions. Prospective owners should verify the integrity of the touchscreen controls and the battery management system, as early iterations could be sensitive to voltage drops.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: As with many production boats, inspect the areas around the primary winches and the self-tacking jib track for any signs of stress cracking or moisture ingress in the balsa core, though Dufour’s vacuum-infused injection process for the deck generally minimizes these risks.
• Rudder Bearings: In high-use charter vessels, the single deep rudder can put significant stress on the bearings. Check for excessive "play" or vibration in the twin steering wheels while under power.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 390 Grand Large typically find support through the Dufour Owners Association, which provides a repository of technical manuals and community-driven advice for the Grand Large series. While Dufour Yachts maintains a direct presence for parts through their global dealer network, the "Dufour Yachts Owners" group on various social platforms serves as the primary hub for real-world troubleshooting and cruising modifications.

The Verdict

The Dufour 390 Grand Large is a masterclass in space management, offering the amenities and head count of a much larger vessel while retaining the nimble handling of a Felci-designed hull. It is an ideal choice for coastal cruisers who prioritize social space and modern aesthetics.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume with a unique 3-cabin/3-head option.
• High form stability due to the modern, full-length hull chine.
• Integrated "outdoor galley" with plancha grill is best-in-class for entertaining.
• Easy to sail shorthanded with a well-organized cockpit layout.

Cons:

• The high freeboard can make the boat prone to windage when maneuvering in tight marinas.
• The 3-head layout results in smaller sleeping berths compared to the 2-cabin version.
• Standard self-tacking jib can feel underpowered in light-air regions.