“The Dufour 44 is a standout in the performance cruiser category,” says Mark Elkington, CEO, The Yacht Sales Co. who are the exclusive distributors of Dufour Yachts across Australia and New Zealand. “Bold yet refined, the Dufour 44 balances race-ready agility with liveaboard luxury.” The Dufour 44 is set to be showcased against the spectacular backdrop of The Whitsundays, as part of Dufour Yachts’ partnership with Hamilton Island Race Week. We caught up with Elkington ahead of Race Week to find out more about this impressive yacht.
Many of our readers will be familiar with Dufour Yachts. However, for those who aren’t, can you share some brand background and company history? Established in 1964 by Michael Dufour in La Rochelle on the Atlantic Coast in France, Dufour Yachts quickly earned a reputation as a pioneer in the field. Its philosophy of innovation and absolute quality has seen the company grow to become an industry leader, and is now one of the world’s largest shipyards, building more than 400 yachts each year with a team of more than 420 full-time employees.
How would you sum up the Dufour Yachts brand? Dufour Yachts represents the perfect blend of innovation, tradition and precision. It’s a brand that speaks to buyers who are passionate about the art of sailing but don’t want to compromise on comfort or aesthetics. Each model features sleek and fast hulls, smart layouts, robust construction and clever use of space. Distinguished by their timeless elegance and fine French craftsmanship, the yachts have been constructed to be as thrilling under sail as they are comfortable at anchor. Now also available in electric hybrid versions, the models are not just outstanding performance cruisers but eco-conscious for more sustainable yachting.
Is there such a thing as a typical Dufour Yachts owner? Dufour owners are typically sailors who value both the thrill of sailing and the joy of casual cruising with family and friends. Dufour Yachts appeals to those who want a premium yacht that delivers on every front – responsive handling, impressive performance, absolute comfort and timeless style. Our Dufour owners are seasoned racers, coastal cruisers, world adventurers, and locals who want to just enjoy their yacht for weekly twilights and weekend getaways.
Tell us about the Dufour Yachts design and build teams. Since 2002, Dufour Yachts has worked closely with the legendary designer Umberto Felci, whose name is inextricably wrapped up with race-winning cruising yachts. Under his direction, the Dufour range is distinguished by virtue of their unmistakable chines, narrow waterline beam, elegant integrated bowsprit, and low-profile coach roof, all united with minimal, harmonious lines.
The interiors are bright and spacious, and the designers have perfected the art of creating minimalist classic joinery that delivers unparalleled comfort and style. Made entirely in France, all Dufour Yachts models are conceived, designed and produced at the company’s headquarters in La Rochelle. Dufour Yachts controls the whole supply and production chain, from the project development to molds, craftsmanship, finishes and launch.
Let’s talk about the Dufour 44. How would you describe the yacht and where does it sit within the Dufour Yachts range? Sitting between the Dufour 41 and the new Dufour 48, the Dufour 44 is easily sailed single-handedly, yet also has all the space to entertain friends and family in comfort. It really is the kind of yacht that delivers scintillating thrills on a race circuit yet makes you feel entirely at home the moment you drop anchor.
The performance cruiser category is highly competitive – what makes the Dufour 44 stand out from her competition? Where the Dufour 44 truly excels is in its dual personality: it sails fast and handles beautifully, yet every element of its design has been considered for comfort. Each Dufour Yachts model, including the Dufour 44, is available with three rig and deck plan options, to appeal to every cruising plan. For competitive sailors, the Dufour 44 is available in a PERFORMANCE option, including a taller mast and bigger sail area, with the sheeting point for the main at the end of the boom. There’s also premium deck gear and the option of a deeper keel, to deliver even more impressive responsiveness and speed.
Tell us about Dufour Yachts’ partnership with Hamilton Island Race Week. Hamilton Island Race Week is more than a regatta – it’s an iconic celebration of sailing culture. The Dufour 44 is made for this kind of stage: where beauty, performance and camaraderie come together. The partnership reflects shared values of Dufour and Hamilton Island Race Week – absolute quality, community and a love for the sea.
You’ll be showcasing the Dufour 44 on the island during Race Week. What do you have planned? The Yacht Sales Co. will be showcasing the Dufour 44 on F-Arm throughout the week and visitors can experience inspections of the yacht and sea trials by appointment. We are also offering exclusive opportunities to join The Yacht Sales Co. crew onboard as they race the Dufour 44 throughout the regatta. Guests are invited to register their interest on The Yacht Sales Co. website.
What are the top five features of the Dufour 44?
- High-performance hull by Felci Design – sleek, responsive, and fast.
- Spacious, modular cockpit courtesy of its wide beam – ideal for both racing and
entertaining.
- Light-filled interiors with panoramic views and custom wood tones.
- Signature integrated outdoor galley with BBQ and sink, plus expansive swim platform with dual access to the cockpit.
- Versatile layout options to suit racers, cruisers and liveaboards.
What feedback have you had from customers about the Dufour 44? The Dufour 44 has won over everyone who has inspected her. The most passionate sailors appreciate her classically sleek lines and responsiveness at the helm; racers have been impressed by her powerful performance in all conditions, and casual cruisers just love the light and living space, as well as all the extra features, including the convertible sunpads, ample storage and seamless deck flow. The Dufour 44 leaves a lasting impression on everyone who steps aboard.
How do you imagine people using this yacht? The Dufour 44 is a boat for sailors who want it all. She is right at home in all environments – winning the weekly twilight races and challenging the field in offshore regattas, then taking the family away to drop anchor at an idyllic island or embarking on a circumnavigation for the ultimate adventure.
Talk to us about the living spaces. What makes it a great yacht for entertaining family and friends? The Dufour 44 has achieved the perfect combination of performance and liveability. The yacht has been thoughtfully designed to make life below deck just as enjoyable, with a bright and welcoming saloon that features generous headroom, and beautiful natural light and ventilation. The galley is practical yet social, and the hexagonal dining table makes clever use of the space to comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests for social gatherings.
She features a true Owner’s suite with an island bed and ensuite that surpass all expectations, and the yacht has been designed with an emphasis on detail, atmosphere and premium choice of materials. The result is a warm, light-filled atmosphere with excellent privacy yet plenty of room for everyone to share. The spacious cockpit invites long, lazy afternoons, and there is a sense of openness throughout that makes time aboard feel like a holiday – whether you’re anchored off a beach or moored in a marina. The Dufour 44 is available in four different layouts, including three or four cabin options.
Please share some of the key performance features of the vessel. Under sail, the Dufour 44 is acclaimed for its liveliness and responsive handling. The well-balanced helm and sleek lines provide excellent stability and speed, while twin rudders deliver precise control, especially when heeled. The rigging setup is efficient and adaptable – perfect for both cruising and racing. She features 45hp for when power is required.
How would you describe the design details and finishes? The Dufour 44 is modern but not minimalist. Her exterior lines are sleek and assertive, while the interiors offer a choice of wood tones – from light oak to rich, contemporary finishes. Quality upholstery and soft lighting create a warm, upscale feel. It’s a yacht with style – subtle, refined and unmistakably European.
What are some of the key optional upgrades and customisations that you anticipate buyers fitting to their yacht? The Dufour 44 base model is already well-optioned, but clients can also choose from a selection of rig and deck plans to suit their sail programs. The EASY option includes a self-tacking jib, optional German mainsheet system, and has all winches and clutches positioned on the coaming. The OCEAN option offers more trimming possibilities, with key controls on the coach roof and within reach of the helms. The PERFORMANCE option includes a taller mast and a bigger sail area, with the sheeting point for the main at the end of the boom, plus premium deck gear and option of a deeper keel.
You’ll love this yacht if…you want a yacht that’s as exhilarating under sail as it is inviting at anchor – a boat that turns heads on the water and feels like home on board.
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