At the Cannes Yachting Festival 2023, Dufour Yachts not only showcased its new Dufour 41 but also announced a new model, the Dufour 44 (13.91 x 4.45 meters designed by Felci Design), which is expected to soon replace the Dufour 430. This new model offers many customization options regarding interior layout and Italian-inspired fittings.
The hull of the Dufour 44, despite its significant volume, maintains a relatively “slender” profile. This is achieved in part by the solution of large side windows that reduce weight and increase interior brightness. Also significant are the semi-hard chines that characterize the raised lines just above the waterline and those that start from the bow flare and run along the hull in the upper part of the freeboard.
The coachroof is “long” and terminates forward of the mast, featuring a spacious deck. The cockpit accommodates a folding table, ergonomic benches, and dual steering stations with control units. As standard, the instrumentation will be provided by B&G.
In an effort to reduce hydrodynamic resistance and enhance sensitivity, the design team opted for a single rudder blade. Beyond the now-traditional fold-down transom platform, the cockpit also features a continuous bench overlooking the stern, a solution that not only provides ample seating space but also enhances safety.
Moving on to the interiors, they are spacious (thanks to the hull’s design and generous beam) and will undoubtedly be well-lit due to the side windows and those in the aft and side portions of the coachroof. The design, once again, was entrusted to the Italian studio Ardizio Design by Luca Ardizio. Several space configurations are available, but one thing remains consistent, and that is the large and uniquely-shaped dinette.
Below deck, to the right, you’ll find the kitchen, a hybrid between the side-facing and “C”-shaped layout, divided by a central unit where the refrigerator and, presumably, storage for food and utensils will be located. There is also the option of having it in the “frontal galley” configuration, with the sink on the left side and the stove on the right, freeing up space for a sofa on the right side of the dinette.
To the left, there’s a unique hexagonal table, a solution made possible by the spacious beam of the hull.
The owner can choose between the three-cabin layout, with a spacious master cabin at the bow featuring an ensuite bathroom and a dedicated shower cubicle, along with two double cabins at the stern (also with bathrooms). Alternatively, they can opt for the four-cabin layout with four bathrooms.
The base version of the new Dufour 44 (with a three-cabin layout and frontal galley) and the essential comfort package (including a lazy bag, rigid vang, cockpit shower, cockpit table, electric windlass, boiler, etc.) starts at 290,000 euros, excluding taxes (275,000 + 15,000 for the mandatory comfort package).