The Dufour 27 is a sailboat manufactured by the French company Dufour Yachts. It is a small cruising sailboat designed for coastal and offshore sailing. Here are some key features and specifications of the Dufour 27:
1. Design: The Dufour 27 has a classic design with a sleek and elegant appearance. It features a moderate displacement hull with a fin keel and a spade rudder.
2. Dimensions: The boat has an overall length of approximately 27 feet (8.25 meters) and a beam (width) of around 9 feet (2.75 meters). It has a draft of about 4.5 feet (1.37 meters), which allows for good stability and performance.
3. Accommodation: The Dufour 27 offers comfortable accommodation for a small crew or family. It typically has a V-berth in the forward cabin, a main saloon with seating and a folding table, a small galley with a sink and stove, and a separate head (bathroom) compartment.
4. Sailing Performance: The Dufour 27 is known for its good sailing performance and handling characteristics. It has a fractional rig with a mainsail and a genoa or jib. The boat is designed to be easily handled by a small crew and can be sailed single-handedly.
5. Construction: The boat is constructed using fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) for the hull and deck, which provides strength and durability. The interior is typically finished with woodwork, giving it a warm and traditional feel.
6. History: The Dufour 27 was first introduced in the late 1970s and remained in production until the early 1980s. It was a popular model during its time and is still sought after by sailors looking for a compact and affordable cruising sailboat.
Overall, the Dufour 27 is a well-regarded sailboat known for its classic design, good performance, and comfortable accommodation. It is suitable for coastal cruising and can handle some offshore passages with proper preparation and equipment.