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The Dufour 54 marks a new stage in the French shipyard's range. With an overall length of almost 17 meters, it is clearly aimed at long-distance cruising programs, whether for families or crews, without breaking with the design choices already seen on more compact models.
A true descendant of the Dufour 48
The Dufour 54 takes its design cues from the Dufour 48, already renowned for its open cockpit and fluid flow. The principle remains the same, but transposed to a larger scale. Spaces are wider, volumes more coherent, and the feeling of fullness is pleasant from the moment you step aboard.
Wide, unobstructed passageways allow easy movement between cockpit and bow, with no marked obstacles. An additional step between cockpit and deck facilitates passage, limiting the climbing movements not appreciated when sailing or at anchor.
A modular cockpit with a focus on life on board
The cockpit adopts a two-table configuration, a layout that frees up a continuous central passageway. The table tops can be lowered and supplemented with cushions to create spacious sunbathing areas, for use both at anchor and at port.
The helm stations remain well clear, with good freedom of movement for the helmsman. In the standard configuration, maneuvering is carried out forward of the companionway. Sheeting winches on the aft coamings remain available as an option for those who prefer more direct steering from aft.
As an option, the Dufour 54 can be fitted with a sturdy roll bar over the cockpit, combined with a rigid hardtop. More traditional solutions, such as a bimini and companionway canopy, are still available to adapt the boat to each individual's sailing area and habits.
A bridge plan designed for safety and traffic flow
The bathing platform is impressively large, almost three meters wide, and completely closes off the stern. It facilitates access to the water, tenders and harbor maneuvers. The outdoor galley is located directly above, ensuring a pleasant stay at anchor.
A rail-mounted self-tacking jib is standard on the bow, while an overlapping genoa is available as an option, with the clews set into the cabin structure. This choice gives the owner the freedom to orientate the boat towards simpler or more committed sailing.
The standard rig is an aluminum mast with three spreaders. Furling mainsail and furling boom configurations are also available, confirming the cruising orientation of this model.
Highly configurable interior layouts
Below deck, the Dufour 54 relies on natural light, light surfaces and good ventilation. Numerous deck hatches provide plenty of air and light both at anchor and at sea.
Several configurations are available. Three or four double cabins, each with its own bathroom, or a five-cabin charter version. The galley can be installed alongside the saloon, or occupy the entire width forward of the main bulkhead, slightly below.
The forward cabin is available in two distinct versions. The Master Suite features an angled island bed and a forward bathroom with separate shower. The Master Cabin retains a central bed with separate shower and toilet. Two different approaches, depending on whether you prefer space or symmetry.
Motorization and energy choices
As standard, the Dufour 54 is powered by a Yanmar 80 hp diesel engine with saildrive. A more powerful 110-hp version is available for heavier programs or high-current areas.
Dufour also offers a hybrid version, combining electric motor, reinforced battery pack and generator. Roof-mounted solar panels and the possibility of hydrogeneration complete this energy approach, grouped together under the name ODSea. On-board capacities are consistent with the program. Approximately 450 liters of fuel and at least 450 liters of fresh water, figures well suited to extended cruising.
A great cruiser in tune with the times
With the Dufour 54, the shipyard continues an approach already well underway. To offer spacious, modular boats, designed for life on board as much as for sailing. This new flagship does not seek to surprise with radical breakthroughs, but to refine proven solutions for a larger size. Budget-wise, the Dufour 54 is available from ?565,450 inc. VAT, while the model on display cost ?1,132,630 inc.
For yachtsmen looking for a comfortable, customizable and coherent large cruising yacht, the Dufour 54 is clearly an option to be closely examined, both alongside and at sea.
