The Dufour 44 was released last year; an addition to the Dufour Yachts range, it’s designed to appeal to a wide mix of sailors — from seasoned cruisers to those looking for a well-equipped yacht for coastal adventures with family and friends.
Dufour Yachts has been building boats for over 50 years in La Rochelle, France, earning a reputation for combining stylish looks with practical features. Today, their team of more than 400 craftspeople builds close to 400 yachts a year, keeping everything — from the design to the joinery — under one roof. The Dufour 44 is the result of their long-running partnership with Italian naval architect Umberto Felci, whose designs are known for clean hull lines and efficient use of space.
Space above and below deck
One of the first things you notice is the generous beam, carried well aft. This gives the cockpit a roomy, open feel — good for both sail handling and relaxing at anchor. The bathing platform is wide, with double access from the cockpit, making it easier to get in and out of the water or set up the plancha grill, a feature Dufour has made popular across their range.
Down below, the interior is designed by Luca Ardizio and makes good use of the full width of the boat. The saloon stretches right across the beam, with a new hexagonal table that can seat up to 10 people using movable stools. It’s a practical setup for hosting crew, friends, or family.
Owner’s cabin and layout choices
Forward, the owner’s cabin is fitted with an island bed and its own en-suite bathroom. There’s an emphasis on light, storage, and simple, warm finishes.
The Dufour 44 comes in four versions, with either three or four cabins. You can choose between a longitudinal galley along the starboard side or a forward galley near the mast — a layout Dufour has used in several of its models. Both versions offer good storage and decent bench space for cooking underway.
Deck and handling features
On deck, the area between the helm stations and primary winches is larger than in some previous models, making sail handling easier. The sheet leads, winch positions, and open cockpit layout are all designed to keep things clear and functional, whether you’re tacking up a channel or enjoying a day sail.
Specifications
- LOA: 13.91 m / 45 ft
- Hull length: 13.10 m / 43 ft
- Waterline length: 12.23 m / 40.2 ft
- Beam: 4.45 m / 14.6 ft
- Draft: 2.20 m / 7.2 ft
- Keel weight: 2,850 kg
- Fuel capacity: 250 L
- Water capacity: 250 L + 180 L (optional)
- Engine: 50 HP
A versatile all-rounder
The Dufour 44 is built with a balance of comfort and capability in mind. It’s not aimed solely at one style of sailing — instead, it offers a flexible platform that could be set up for club racing, bluewater cruising, or simply weekends away. The design focuses on making life easier on board, with thoughtful details and options that let owners choose the layout that suits their plans best.
