Sailing Performance & Handling
The 445 Grand Large is frequently cited by testers for its surprisingly agile performance, a trait attributed to Umberto Felci’s racing pedigree. With a Displacement/Length ratio typically hovering in the low 160s and a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 21, the boat is remarkably powered for a dedicated cruiser. In an editorial review by Sail Magazine, the 445 was noted for its ability to maintain high speeds in light air, reaching 6 knots in just 8 knots of true wind.
Handling is defined by a twin-wheel configuration that offers excellent visibility forward, though some owners have noted that the mechanical linkage provides a dampened steering feel compared to smaller, tiller-steered performance yachts. The boat tracks exceptionally well off the wind thanks to its wide aft sections, though it lacks the hard chines found on later models like the 460. The 445 is most at home in a stiff breeze; according to a detailed sea trial by Yachting Monthly, the vessel remains remarkably balanced even when slightly over-canvased, with the deep 2.20m keel option providing significant righting moment.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the 445 Grand Large is a showcase of the "Moabi" mahogany woodwork that became a Dufour trademark during this era. The most common configuration is the three-cabin, two-head layout, which features a massive forward owner’s suite. This suite is notable for its split head arrangement—a dedicated shower stall to port and a toilet/vanity to starboard—a luxury typically reserved for vessels over 50 feet.
The saloon is designed with a longitudinal galley to port, which maximizes floor space and allows for a large U-shaped dining settee to starboard. This layout is particularly effective for entertaining but can be challenging for the cook while underway in heavy seas. A rare four-cabin variant was produced primarily for the charter industry, which replaces the cavernous forward suite with two smaller double cabins.
It is important to note the relationship with its sibling, the Dufour 450 Grand Large. Launched in 2013, the 450 is built on the exact same hull as the 445 but features an updated deck mold. The 450 introduced a fixed bowsprit, a larger bathing platform, and updated LED lighting and interior finishes, making it the "facelift" version of the 445.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Dufour 445 Grand Large gained significant international attention when it was named "Best Cruising Boat" in the 40-50ft category by several major publications upon its debut. It has also been a featured vessel in long-distance cruising narratives, such as the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), where it is often praised for its storage capacity. The model's spacious cockpit, which includes a dedicated "wine cellar" storage locker beneath the floorboards, has made it a favorite in lifestyle-oriented yachting media, including features in Cruising World.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their survey on a few model-specific areas identified by the owner community:
- Rudder Bearing Play: Like many high-volume production boats of this era, the 445 can develop play in the self-aligning rudder bearings. If there is a "clunk" or excessive vibration at the helm, the bearings likely require replacement.
- Saildrive Diaphragm: The Volvo Penta engines typically paired with this model use a saildrive. Check the manufacture date on the rubber diaphragm; manufacturers recommend replacement every 7 years, which many used vessels have now surpassed.
- Deck Hardware Bedding: Owners on various technical forums have reported occasional leaks around the mid-ship cleats and stanchion bases. Ensure the core around these mounting points is dry and has not suffered from freshwater ingress.
- Electrical Panel Reliability: The digital switching system used in some 445 units can be sensitive to moisture. Verify that all DC circuits are functioning correctly and check for any signs of corrosion behind the main distribution panel.
Community & Resources
Owners of the 445 Grand Large are supported by a well-established network of brand-specific associations. The Dufour Association (primarily based in the UK) provides a wealth of technical manuals and a repository of owner-led modifications. Additionally, the Dufour Owners Group on social media platforms serves as a high-traffic hub for troubleshooting the specific nuances of the 445’s plumbing and electrical systems.
The Verdict
The Dufour 445 Grand Large remains one of the most aesthetically balanced cruisers of the last decade, offering a level of sailing performance that outclasses many of its more "boxy" modern successors.
Pros:
- Exceptional light-wind performance for a cruising yacht.
- The split-head owner's suite offers genuine luxury and privacy.
- Large, ergonomic cockpit designed for easy short-handed sailing.
- High-quality Moabi wood joinery provides a warmer feel than modern laminate interiors.
Cons:
- Longitudinal galley can be difficult to use safely in a seaway.
- The wide beam aft requires careful sail trimming to prevent rounding up in gusts.
- Standard plastic through-hull fittings should ideally be upgraded to bronze or TruDesign.
