Review: Dufour 470 and Dufour 61

Briefly about the latest yachts Dufour 470 and Dufour 61

Like all Dufour yachts built over the past two decades, the last models of this series were created by Umberto Felci. He worked on them with his own design team. The latter now includes specialists from Fountaine Pajot.

Over time, this close collaboration has resulted in a brand with a strong visual style. The Dufour range currently includes nine models, ranging from the Dufour 32 to the Dufour 61.

Dufour 470

So what can you say about this cruiser? Let's start with the stern. The transom is hinged and can be used as a large bathing platform. On the starboard side of the cockpit there is a voluminous locker in which life-saving equipment is stored. 

The cockpit is equipped as follows: two helms closer to the transom, in front of them on the sides are small benches, and then the entrance to the saloon. There is a lot of space on the benches, a folding table is installed between them. 

An interesting and convenient solution - there are small steps in front of the helms, along which you can get to the protopchins. No need to climb over coamings. In addition, the steps serve as lockers for ropes.

Like other models from Dufour, the 470 offers three options for deck equipment. The “Easy” version is a simplified version, which is called “for everyone”. In this configuration, a self-twisting staysail is installed, and all ends for controlling the sails are located closer to the cockpit.

"Ocean" is distinguished by a more complex rigging device. There are additional winches for the staysail, main halyard and main sheet. On this version, you can install genoa. The “Performance” version includes additional sail control and a mainsail leech with an attachment point closer to the cockpit sole just ahead of the rudders. These two versions can also be equipped with a German type rig (for boom control).

You can learn more about the boat at THIS LINK.

Dufour 61

The 61 models feature a low-profile cabin top, wide side treads and plenty of foredeck space. At the stern, in addition to the bathing platform, there is also a spacious compartment for dinghys (tuziks). On the forecastle there is a large and deep locker for sails. The staysail is self-twisting.

The boom also, like on the 470th model, uses the German system. There are a minimum of winches on the deck, which is a good solution. At the same time, it limits sail control a bit. 

Electric winches give the helmsman the ability to control all necessary lines and rigging. Guests can enjoy the spacious cockpit and its wide table and refrigerator underneath. 

As on the 470th model, the owner has the opportunity to place his family, guests and crew downstairs. There are two cabins aft, in the saloon there are berths on the starboard side opposite the galley. The master cabin is equipped with a double bed.

It is also possible to place a galley in the aft part of the vessel, on the port side. There are several other cabin layout options providing berths for eight crew members, plus a captain's berth.

The 61st model is declared the flagship at the moment. You can learn more about the boat at THIS LINK.

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08.03.2022