Dufour Safari 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Safari 27 is a stiff, seaworthy cruiser that reflects the design priorities of the early 1970s. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavier side of "medium," the boat provides a secure, predictable motion in a seaway. It features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that offers significantly better tracking and rudder protection than the spade rudders found on more modern light-displacement yachts.

In light air, the Safari can feel somewhat sluggish due to its substantial wetted surface area, but it comes alive in a breeze. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "bigger than it is" when the wind exceeds 15 knots, maintaining its footing while smaller or lighter 27-footers are forced to reef. The rig is a traditional masthead sloop, which provides a powerful headsail plan. While it lacks the ultimate pointing ability of modern racing yachts, its ability to punch through a chop without losing momentum makes it a preferred choice for coastal passage-making rather than around-the-buoys racing.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a boat designed over half a century ago, the interior of the Safari 27 is remarkably ergonomic. Michel Dufour utilized the boat’s 9-foot beam to create a cabin that felt cavernous compared to the narrow-gutted wooden boats it replaced. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, a compact head (toilet) compartment located between the forward cabin and the salon, and a main salon with two distinct configurations.

The most common variant features a "dinette" layout to port, which can be converted into a double berth, and a linear galley to starboard. A second "classic" variant was produced with twin longitudinal settees and a central folding table. The use of molded fiberglass headliners and mahogany or teak trim was standard, providing a balance of easy maintenance and traditional aesthetics. Headroom is approximately 5'10" (1.78m) in the main cabin, which was considered exceptional for a 27-foot vessel in the early 1970s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Safari 27, prospective buyers should focus on the following high-signal areas common to Dufour builds of this vintage:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Safari used balsa coring in the deck for stiffness. Over decades, hardware bedding can fail, leading to water ingress and localized delamination. Soft spots around the chainplates and the mast step are the most common "gotchas."
• Original Engines: Many Safaris were originally fitted with the Volvo Penta MD1B or MD6A diesel engines. These are raw-water cooled units; after 50 years, internal corrosion and parts availability become significant hurdles. A vessel that has been "re-powered" with a modern freshwater-cooled Yanmar or Beta Marine engine carries significantly higher value.
• Chainplate Anchors: The Safari’s shrouds are anchored to fiberglass knees. While generally robust, these should be inspected for stress cracks or "working" where the bolts pass through the laminate, as this can indicate the boat has been sailed hard under a high-tension rig.
• Osmotic Blistering: While Dufour used high-quality resins, early 70s fiberglass is not immune to osmosis. A hull survey is essential to check for blistering below the waterline.

Community & Resources

The Safari 27 benefits from the extensive network of the Dufour Association, an international group that provides technical archives and owner support for "Classic" Dufour models. While there is no dedicated "Safari-only" club, the shared DNA between the Safari, the Arpège, and the Dufour 31 means that technical solutions for one model are often applicable to the others.

The Verdict

The Dufour Safari 27 is an over-engineered, charming classic that offers a "big boat" feel in a compact footprint. It is an ideal entry-level cruiser for those who prioritize structural integrity and sea-kindliness over modern flat-out speed or contemporary "condo" styling.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and "heavy-weather" confidence for its size.
• Timeless design by Michel Dufour with iconic IOR lines.
• Surprising interior volume and headroom for a 27-foot vintage yacht.
• Skeg-hung rudder provides superior protection and tracking.

Cons:

• Original raw-water cooled engines are often at the end of their service life.
• Performance in light winds is hampered by high wetted surface area.
• Aging deck hardware and balsa-core issues require vigilant maintenance.