The first thing you’ll notice about the Dufour 44 is its significantly larger aft section, thanks to its modern hull design. With the beam extended fully aft the cockpit area is remarkably spacious, even compared to yachts from just a few years ago.
At the transom, the bathing platform has been enlarged for easier access, complemented by steps on either side that lead up into the cockpit for seamless movement around the boat. The familiar built in plancha or BBQ is located beneath the central seat and together with the port and starboard seats, it encloses the cockpit to create a safe, secure area at sea.
Access to the lazerette beneath the cockpit floor is available through two openings, providing ample storage space—large enough to accommodate a generator and a sizeable gas bottle locker on the starboard side. Beneath the plancha, there’s a dedicated compartment for a liferaft.
Inside the cockpit, a central table and twin steering wheels allow for free movement and excellent seating, while the multiple handholds at each helm and around the table ensure a secure grip at all times. Under each seat, additional lockers offer even more storage options.
The yacht can be equipped with up to three pairs of winches, giving you dedicated lines for the main and genoa sheets. Depending on your setup, the companionway features two winches for halyards and reefing lines.
Forward, steps on either side provide easy access to the wide side decks, which are uncluttered and comfortable for walking around. When alongside, extra cushions can be placed over the steps, extending the cockpit seating area.
At the bow, you’ll find a large deck locker, perfect for storing fenders, mooring lines, or extra sails with access to the anchor locker via a watertight hatch.
The boat features well placed handrails for added safety, and double gates at the side offer convenient access while splitting the guard wires.
The Dufour 44 is rigged with a 7/8 fractional sail plan with two sets of spreaders. It comes standard with a fully battened Dacron mainsail and a self-tacking jib. Upgrades are available, including an overlapping 108% genoa, furling mainsail, premium laminate sails and a range of downwind sail options. Notably the gooseneck height has been deliberately lowered, making it easier to access and control the mainsail at the mast.
On the water, the hull’s shape and distinctive chines deliver impressive performance. Once the yacht sits on its chines, it accelerates smoothly, with a maximum heel angle around 18 to 20 degrees. The full length chines contribute to a well balanced, naturally straight line tracking yacht that is remarkably easy to steer. When properly reefed and sailed flat, the Dufour 44 offers a superb, effortless sailing experience, with minimal weather helm, truly a modern cruising machine.
