Frequently Asked Questions

(answered from the owners perspective)

How does she handle?

The Dufour 512 Grand Large handles beautifully, thanks to a blend of race-bred pedigree and cruising comfort. With her wide hull and straight bow, she cuts through the water efficiently, giving you good speed and stability even in heavier seas. The boat's design maximises waterline length, which directly translates into better performance and speed under sail, whether you're cruising leisurely or pushing her in a fun race.

One of the key features that make handling so smooth is the swept-back rig and the shroud chainplates, which are anchored outboard at the gunwales. This not only gives her more stability but also makes sail handling easier, especially when you're solo. The fixed bowsprit allows for easy deployment of an asymmetrical spinnaker, making downwind sailing much simpler and more fun.

The raised boom is another great design element. Positioned higher than on many yachts, it makes the mainsail easier to access and manage, particularly when solo-sailing. It's also safer, reducing the chance of accidental injury while tacking or gybing offshore.

At the helm, she’s responsive and predictable, with a balanced feel through the wheel. Even under power, the Dufour 512 maneuvers well, which is a bonus when you're docking or handling her in tighter marinas, especially with the retractable bow and stern thrusters. With a well-designed cockpit layout and all controls within easy reach, she’s built for ease of use without compromising performance. Whether you're out for a day sail or tackling a longer passage, the 512 gives you confidence with her stability, control, and solid handling in various conditions.

What’s the engine like?

The Dufour 512 Grand Large is equipped with a reliable Volvo Penta 75 horsepower (HP) diesel engine, which is ideal for a boat of this size and class. This engine offers a great balance of power and fuel efficiency, giving you plenty of thrust when you need it, whether you're motoring out of a crowded marina or cruising at a steady pace during calm winds.

In terms of performance, the 75 HP provides smooth acceleration and can comfortably drive the yacht at a cruising speed of around 7 to 8 knots, with a top speed under power closer to 9 knots. It's a strong, well-matched engine for long passages, helping you cover ground efficiently when the wind isn’t cooperating.

The engine compartment is well-insulated, minimizing noise levels in the cabin, so you can enjoy a quieter ride while motoring. Maintenance access is good, too, with easy-to-reach filters and components that make servicing straightforward.

Overall, the engine is powerful enough to handle offshore conditions while being economical for extended cruising. It’s a dependable workhorse that complements the Dufour 512’s performance under sail, giving you the versatility to motor comfortably when needed.

Can she handle rough seas?

Yes, the Dufour 512 Grand Large is well-equipped to handle rough seas, making her a capable choice for bluewater and offshore sailing. A few key features contribute to her seaworthiness:

1. Hull Design: The Dufour 512's powerful hull, with a wide transom and straight-edged bow, helps her cut through waves efficiently and stay stable even in choppier conditions. The chine along the hull provides additional stability and reduces excessive heeling, making her more comfortable in rougher seas.

2. Solid Construction: The yacht is built with a hand-laminated polyester/GRP (fiberglass) hull and a vacuum-bonded foam sandwich core, giving her both strength and lightness. The deck is reinforced, and the keel bolts are backed by massive stainless steel plates, ensuring the structural integrity of the boat under heavy loads. The boat also has an epoxy barrier to protect against osmosis, enhancing durability in harsh marine environments.

3. Solo-Sailing and Safety Features: Features like the raised boom and well-laid-out rigging make sail handling easier and safer, even in difficult offshore conditions. The removable inner forestay for setting a storm sail is a crucial feature for managing high winds. The self-tacking headsail option is also handy for minimizing effort when sailing short-handed in rough weather.

4. Offshore Rigging: The swept-back rig and shroud chainplates placed outboard give the yacht excellent lateral stability, which is essential when sailing in strong winds or rolling seas. This helps keep her steady and easier to handle when conditions get tough.

5. Deck and Cockpit Design: The cockpit is designed with offshore sailing in mind. It’s spacious but secure, with high coamings and sturdy handrails, so you and your crew can feel safe while moving around. The fold-up sunbed doubles as a snug berth when sailing offshore, providing shelter from the wind.

6. Bluewater Features: Rounded furniture corners below deck and strategically placed grab rails in the coach roof reduce the risk of injury when moving around in rough conditions, another sign of a yacht designed for long passages.

Overall, the Dufour 512 is built to handle the challenges of offshore sailing, and her combination of stability, strength, and safety features makes her capable in rough seas.

Hows the maneuverability?

The Dufour 512 Grand Large offers excellent maneuverability, both under sail and power, making her an enjoyable and manageable yacht to handle in various conditions. Here’s how she performs in different scenarios:

Under Sail

Responsive Steering: Thanks to her balanced hull design, the Dufour 512 is responsive and quick to react to helm input. Whether you're tacking or gybing, the dual helm system offers precise control, allowing you to steer confidently, even when single-handed.
Wide Hull and Rig Layout: The wide beam and swept-back rig with outboard shroud chainplates help maintain stability while allowing the sails to generate good power. This gives the yacht a nimble feel despite her 50-foot size. The outboard chainplates also allow for a more open deck layout while still contributing to the boat's solid tracking, making it easier to stay on course, especially in tight or tricky sailing conditions.
Self-Tacking Headsail Option: For those who prioritize ease of handling, especially when short-handed, the optional self-tacking headsail significantly improves maneuverability. It allows you to tack smoothly without having to adjust the headsail sheets constantly, which is particularly handy when navigating in confined areas or when sailing solo.

Under Power

Powerful 75 HP Engine: The 75 HP Volvo Penta engine provides plenty of thrust, allowing for easy control when motoring in and out of marinas or tight docking spaces. With the engine’s power, you can expect smooth acceleration and precise control, especially when maneuvering at low speeds in confined areas.
Bow and Stern Thrusters: With the retractable bow and stern thrusters, maneuvering becomes even easier. These features are particularly useful when docking or navigating tight spaces in busy harbors, giving you the ability to make small, controlled adjustments that can make a big difference when parking a large yacht like this.
Twin Rudders: The Dufour 512's twin rudders are a significant asset when it comes to maneuverability. Twin rudders improve grip and steering control, especially when the boat is heeling over. Even in moderate to high winds or rough seas, the twin rudder setup ensures better directional control and handling, making it easier to maneuver through various conditions.
Handling Under Sail and Power: Whether you're sailing or motoring, the Dufour 512’s design ensures you can maneuver with confidence. Under sail, she handles well even in stronger winds, with a good amount of control through the helm, and under power, the combination of engine strength and optional thrusters gives you plenty of versatility.

Docking and Close-Quarters Maneuvering

When it comes to docking, the 512’s combination of her well-designed cockpit, excellent visibility from the helm, and smooth engine power makes the process much less stressful. Features like the electric transom for stern docking make Mediterranean-style mooring easier, and the optional thrusters can make close-quarters handling a breeze, even for a 50-footer.

In summary, the Dufour 512 Grand Large’s maneuverability is a standout feature. Her blend of responsive sailing characteristics, powerful engine, and practical handling features like twin rudders and optional thrusters ensure she's easy to control, whether you're cruising offshore, sailing in tighter spaces, or docking.

What’s the Sail Plan?

The Dufour 512 Grand Large features a modern, efficient sail plan designed for both ease of handling and performance. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of her sail plan:

Mainsail

Fully Battened Mainsail: The standard configuration includes a fully battened mainsail, which offers better shape retention and control, especially in stronger winds. The battens provide more power and allow the sail to maintain its shape, contributing to overall performance. The mainsail is relatively easy to manage thanks to the upward-angled boom and low gooseneck, a design inspired by solo racing that makes reefing and sail handling simpler.

Headsail

Genoa: The headsail is typically a large 108% genoa, providing plenty of sail area to catch the wind and drive the boat forward. The headsail is mounted on a roller furler, which makes deploying and reefing the sail simple and efficient. The furling system allows you to adjust the sail area quickly, which is a big advantage when conditions change.
Self-Tacking Jib: This Dufour 512 also offers an self-tacking jib. This is a fantastic feature for sailors who prefer an easy-to-handle setup. With the self-tacking jib, there’s no need to adjust the jib sheets when tacking, making maneuvers faster and less labor-intensive. It's particularly helpful when sailing shorthanded or in tight quarters.

Spinnaker

Asymmetrical Spinnaker in Bright Pink!: The yacht is designed with a fixed bowsprit, which is ideal for flying an asymmetrical spinnaker. This sail is perfect for downwind sailing, allowing the boat to pick up speed and sail more efficiently off the wind. The spinnaker setup is straightforward, and the bowsprit keeps the sail clear of the rigging, making it easier to manage.

Rigging

Swept-Back Spreaders: The mast is designed with swept-back spreaders, which provide better support for the mast without needing running backstays. This rig configuration allows for a more open deck layout and simplifies handling by reducing the need for extra rigging adjustments.
Outboard Shroud Chainplates: The rigging is set outboard to the gunwales, which improves stability and leaves the side decks clear for easier movement. This also contributes to better sail shape, as the wider base allows for more efficient sail trim.

Sail Area

The Dufour 512 Grand Large has an impressive sail area for her size, providing the power needed for lively performance while still being easy to manage:

Total Sail Area (Approximate): 115 m² (1,237 sq ft), which includes both the mainsail and headsail.

Bluewater and Offshore Capabilities

The Dufour 512’s sail plan is designed to be versatile, whether you're cruising offshore or enjoying day sails in calmer waters. The boat’s race-influenced features, like the fixed bowsprit for the spinnaker and optional storm sail inner forestay, give her flexibility for handling different wind angles and conditions. The headsail furling system ensures that she’s manageable even when conditions worsen.

Reefing System

The mainsail can be reefed easily, with the reefing lines running back to the cockpit for quick and safe adjustments. This feature, combined with the easily accessible boom, ensures that you can reduce sail efficiently without leaving the safety of the cockpit.

Verdict on the Sail Plan

The Dufour 512 Grand Large’s sail plan strikes a fine balance between performance and ease of use. The ability to customize the sail plan with options like the self-tacking jib gives you the flexibility to tailor the boat to your sailing style, whether you're after leisurely cruising or spirited performance in regattas.

How’s the cockpit layout?

The cockpit layout on the Dufour 512 Grand Large is one of its standout features, designed for both functionality and socializing. It's spacious, well-organised, and optimised for comfortable long-distance cruising, entertaining guests, and easy handling under sail. Here’s a detailed look at what makes the cockpit so effective:

Size and Space

T-Shaped Cockpit: The Dufour 512 has a large, T-shaped cockpit, which is spacious enough to accommodate up to 12 guests. This makes it an ideal setting for both sailing and socialising. The layout is cleverly designed so that there’s plenty of room for movement, and it doesn’t feel cramped even with a full crew or group of friends on board.
Split Zones for Sailing and Relaxing: The cockpit is divided into two functional areas: a working area near the twin helms and a dedicated lounging area forward, where guests can relax without interfering with sailing operations. This layout ensures that the helmsperson has clear access to the lines and instruments while the rest of the crew can enjoy the ride in comfort.

Helm Station

Twin Helm System: The yacht is equipped with a dual helm setup, giving the skipper excellent visibility and control on both tacks. The twin wheels provide easy access to the aft, making it simple to move between the helm and other parts of the boat. The setup also offers better visibility when docking or maneuvering, and the space between the wheels allows for easy movement when stepping down to the swim platform.
Instrument Panels: Each helm station is equipped with a full suite of navigational instruments and engine controls, making it easy to monitor and adjust settings from either side. The instrument panels are well-positioned for quick access and easy readability.

Sail Handling

All Lines Led Aft: For ease of handling, especially when sailing shorthanded, all sail controls are led aft to the cockpit. This allows the skipper or crew to manage sail adjustments without leaving the safety of the cockpit. The sheets and halyards are neatly organized with clutches, and there are two large winches positioned within easy reach of the helm for trimming the headsail and mainsail.
Electric Winches: The cockpit is designed to accommodate electric winches, which make sail handling even more effortless, particularly when raising the mainsail or trimming the genoa in heavier winds.

Comfort and Socialising

Large Cockpit Table: The centerpiece of the social area is a large cockpit table, which can comfortably seat 6 to 8 people for meals or drinks. The table also incorporates handy features like a built-in sink and refrigerator, making outdoor dining and entertaining easier. The table is sturdy and doubles as a support when moving about in rougher seas.
BBQ Station in the Transom: One of the most popular features is the integrated BBQ grill at the aft transom, perfect for cooking while anchored in a cove. The transom seat folds open to reveal the grill, and there’s even a sink built into the cockpit console for convenient cleanup.
Convertible Sunbed: The portside cockpit seat has a fold-up feature that converts it into a large sunbed, offering a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view while under sail or at anchor. This area can also be used as a day berth for offshore sailing, providing protection from the wind while keeping you close to the action.

Swim Platform and Transom

Electric Folding Transom: The Dufour 512 comes with an electric opening transom that transforms into a swim platform. This feature is not only practical for stern-to docking (particularly in the Mediterranean style), but also makes it easy to enjoy water activities. When at anchor, it provides direct access to the sea, perfect for swimming or launching a tender.
Integrated Storage: Beneath the cockpit seating, there is ample storage space for lines, fenders, and other gear. These storage spaces have had additional locker hatches put in for added storage. There’s also a dedicated locker for a life raft, ensuring that safety equipment is easily accessible but out of the way.

Shelter and Protection

Full Canvas Canopy: The cockpit can be well-protected from the elements with a full canvas canopy, including a bimini and dodger. The design maximises visibility while still offering excellent protection from sun, wind, and spray. The owner has customised the panels to create the perfect setup for any weather condition.
Sheltered Seating: The seating is designed for both comfort and security, with high coamings and solid handrails providing safe support when the boat is heeled over. The forward part of the cockpit is particularly well-sheltered, offering a comfortable spot for passengers to sit and enjoy the ride even when the weather is less than ideal.

Conclusion

The Dufour 512 Grand Large’s cockpit is a versatile, spacious, and intelligently designed space. It’s optimised for sailing with all lines and controls easily accessible, while still providing an incredibly comfortable area for relaxing and entertaining. Whether you’re cruising with a crew, sailing shorthanded, or hosting friends and family, the cockpit is one of the highlights of this yacht.

What are the specs?

Here are the key specifications for the Dufour 512 Grand Large, covering dimensions, performance, and essential technical details:

General Specifications

Length Overall (LOA): 15.10 meters (49.5 feet)
Hull Length: 14.75 meters (48.4 feet)
Waterline Length: 13.67 meters (44.8 feet)
Beam (Width): 4.80 meters (15.7 feet)
Draft (Keel): 2.30 meters (7.5 feet)

Displacement and Weight

Displacement: 15,245 kg (33,610 lbs)
Ballast: 4,250 kg (9,370 lbs)

Engine and Performance

Engine: Volvo Penta 75 HP diesel engine
Fuel Capacity: 500 liters (132 gallons)
Fresh Water Capacity: 720 liters (190 gallons)

Sail Plan

Total Sail Area: 115 m² (1,237 sq ft)

Mainsail Area: 63 m² (678 sq ft)
Genoa Area: 52 m² (559 sq ft)

Mast Height: 21.35 meters (70 feet) above the waterline
Rig Type: Fractional sloop and self-tacking jib

Accommodation and Layout

Cabins: 3 double cabins with en-suite heads
Heads: 3 heads, all with showers
Berths: 6 berths, 8 when saloon is set up into a double bed berth
Interior Finish: High-quality light oak paneling with upgraded seat cushions and carpets throughout
Galley: U-shaped galley with 3-burner stove, oven, two drawer fridge, sink, microwave, coffee machine and ample storage including wine cellar

Deck and Cockpit

Cockpit Layout: T-shaped cockpit with twin helm stations
Swim Platform: Electric fold-down transom for easy access to water
Cockpit Table: Includes sink and fridge
BBQ Grill: Built into the transom seat
Winches: 2 primary winches near the helm stations, optional electric winches

Construction

Hull Material: Hand-laminated polyester/GRP with a vacuum-bonded foam sandwich core
Keel Type: Cast iron fin keel (standard), with optional shallow draft keel

Other Key Features

Thrusters: Retractable bow and stern thrusters (with remote controls too) for enhanced maneuverability
Rigging: Swept-back spreaders and outboard chainplates for wide, efficient sail trim
Steering: Dual helms with direct access to navigation controls and instrumentation
Bowsprit: Fixed bowsprit for flying an asymmetrical spinnaker

Design and Build

Naval Architect: Umberto Felci (Italian design with a performance-oriented hull)
Builder: Dufour Yachts (France)
Year Introduced: 2015

Certifications

CE Certification: Category A (Ocean), meaning she is certified for long-distance offshore cruising in rough seas.

Why do people chose to buy a Dufour 512 Grand Large

People are drawn to the Dufour 512 Grand Large for a variety of reasons, as it offers a well-rounded combination of performance, comfort, and luxury that appeals to different types of sailors. But here are the main reasons why people choose to buy this yacht according to the world of chat gpt…

1. Offshore and Bluewater Capabilities

Performance-oriented design: The Dufour 512 is designed with bluewater cruising in mind, making it an ideal choice for sailors who want to embark on long offshore voyages. With its sturdy hull, deep keel, and reliable rigging, the yacht can handle challenging ocean conditions while offering a comfortable and safe passage.
Race-boat pedigree: While it is primarily a cruiser, the 512 inherits performance elements from Dufour’s racing background, allowing for a faster, more exciting sail. It can handle light winds as well as heavier conditions, making it versatile for different sailing styles.

2. Luxurious Comfort and Interior Design

High-quality interior finish: The Dufour 512 features a spacious and elegant interior, with light oak paneling, tasteful upholstery, and a modern, open-plan layout. The yacht’s finish appeals to buyers who value luxury and want a yacht that feels like a high-end living space.
Spacious accommodations: The layout of the Dufour 512 offers up to three luxury en-suite cabins, each designed for comfort. This makes it an excellent choice for extended cruising with family or friends. The master cabin, in particular, features an island berth and en-suite bathroom with separate head creating a hotel-like feel at sea.
Social-friendly design: The yacht is designed for entertaining, with a large cockpit, ample deck space for sunbathing, and an outdoor BBQ and cooking station built into the cockpit. The yacht’s size and layout make it perfect for hosting guests while still maintaining privacy and comfort for longer cruises.

3. Ease of Handling and Sailability

Single-handed or short-handed sailing: The Dufour 512 is equipped with features like an asymmetrical spinnaker, a low gooseneck boom, and an easily accessible sail plan, making it suitable for single-handed or short-handed sailing. These features are particularly attractive to sailors who prefer to sail without a large crew but still want a powerful yacht.
Electric winches, retractable bow and stern thrusters: Electric winches and bow and stern thrusters make handling and docking easier, especially for less experienced sailors or those who want to simplify operations. These features enhance the yacht’s appeal to a wider range of buyers.

4. Modern Design and Aesthetic Appeal

Italian-inspired design: The Dufour 512’s sleek, aerodynamic cabin top and modern hull design, created by Umberto Felci, give the yacht an attractive, contemporary look. Buyers who appreciate stylish aesthetics are often drawn to the clean lines and sophisticated detailing.
Teak decking: The yacht comes with real teak decking in the cockpit and other exterior areas, adding to its premium feel and making it more desirable for those who want a yacht with a traditional, luxurious look.

5. Versatility for Different Sailing Styles

Coastal cruising or long-distance sailing: The Dufour 512 is versatile enough to be used for both coastal cruising and longer offshore passages. Whether an owner wants a comfortable platform for weekend sails or a boat capable of crossing oceans, the 512 offers flexibility.
Fun regattas or leisurely cruising: Thanks to its solid performance, the yacht can handle both leisurely cruising and more competitive sailing, such as club races or fun regattas. Its speed and agility allow owners to enjoy both worlds.

6. Spacious Cockpit and Deck for Outdoor Living

Large, social cockpit: The T-shaped cockpit can accommodate up to 12 guests, making it ideal for entertaining while sailing or at anchor. The fold-down transom, which serves as a swim platform, and the cockpit’s integrated grill and sink provide a luxury outdoor living space that is great for relaxing in sunny coves or Mediterranean-style docking.
Deck space for sunbathing: The expansive deck offers plenty of room for sunbathing and lounging, which is appealing to buyers who enjoy spending time outdoors while at anchor or cruising.

7. Proven Quality and Heritage

Dufour Yachts reputation: Dufour is a well-respected brand with a long history of building quality sailing yachts. The company has a strong reputation for producing yachts that are durable, well-crafted, and reliable. Buyers trust the brand and appreciate its legacy of innovation, especially in bluewater cruising yachts.
Hand-laminated construction: The Dufour 512 uses a hand-laminated, vacuum-bonded hull with a foam sandwich core for strength and durability. This construction technique appeals to buyers who prioritise safety and long-term value, knowing that their yacht can handle rough seas and tough conditions.

In Summary

People buy the Dufour 512 Grand Large for its balance of performance, luxury, and comfort. It appeals to a range of sailors, from those seeking bluewater adventure to those wanting a spacious and stylish yacht for coastal cruising and entertaining. Its versatility, quality build, and ease of handling make it a compelling choice for yacht buyers looking for a premium, well-rounded sailing experience.

Any other questions? call Chris or Lewis