New Dufour 36 revealed

Sporty, modern and "entertaining" is the motto of the current generation of Dufour’s performance-oriented yachts, and set to lead this new generation is the Dufour 36.



 

The Dufour 36 is meant to fill the long vacant slot between the 34 and the 40, while simultaneously introducing a new concept for Dufour. The cockpit is tailored to fit the needs of sporty sailors and is completely open at the stern. Under the cockpit floor there are big spaces for storage i.e. for a life raft. The cockpit seats are removable and can be left behind at the dock for racing.

 



 

Also new are chain plates that are directly attached to the hull. This means Dufour's performance line is also following the general trend to use shorter overlaps in their headsails in lieu of a mast that has become taller relative to the boat length.

Another novelty is the hard chine running the entire length on each side of the hull. This adds volume in the stern and improves stability when under way. The boat will also be equipped with a retractable bowsprit for the gennaker. The design of the Dufour 36, as usual, was entrusted to Umberto Felci.

The interior of the Dufour 36 however remains conservative and conventional. The layout provides for spacious separate staterooms fore and aft a large storage area aft, a head with an optional shower, a pantry and a saloon with a symmetrical arrangement and a table on centreline. Additional layout options will not be offered.

This story is republished courtesy of YACHT Magazine, Europe’s leading sail magazine.