Dufour 29

Dufour 29  – Classic and Seaworthy Sailing YachtThe Dufour 29 is a classic polyester sailing yacht, designed by the renowned French yacht designer Michel Dufour and built at the shipyard in La Rochelle. This particular model, hull number 374 from 1980, combines a timeless design with practical sailing characteristics and a comfortable layout. With a length of 8.95 meters, a width of 2.96 meters, and a draft of 1.35 meters, this vessel is suitable for both inland waters and coastal areas. The air draft of 12.5 meters allows it to pass under most bridges in the Netherlands, making the Dufour 29 a versatile choice for sailors who enjoy exploring diverse sailing areas.Dufour 29 now in the online auction. Everyone can bid until March 16, 2026.Sailing Performance and ConstructionThe Dufour 29 is built with a round-bilge polyester hull, contributing to stability and comfort while sailing. The mast is made of aluminum, and the rigging is robustly executed, including a Furlex roller system for the genoa. The sail plan consists of a mainsail and a genoa, allowing the ship to be well-handled under various conditions. The tiller steering offers direct control and a good feel with the rudder, which is especially appreciated by sailors who enjoy a sporty and direct sailing experience.The hull was completely stripped in 2010 and coated with a two-component paint layer. The underwater hull is treated annually with a self-polishing black antifouling, which contributes to sailing efficiency and hull protection.Interior and Onboard ComfortInside, the Dufour 29 offers a warm and classic atmosphere thanks to the mahogany woodwork. The headroom of 1.86 meters ensures that even taller crew members can move comfortably. The layout is practical and focused on comfort during longer stays on board. There are four fixed berths divided over two separate cabins, providing privacy and tranquility for crew members or guests.The galley is equipped with a 2-burner gas stove, with the gas connection renewed in 2025, and a spacious cooler with a Dometic compressor unit. There is ample storage space for provisions and kitchenware, making the ship suitable for multi-day trips. Between the cabins, there is a manual toilet with washing facilities and extra storage space.Engine and Technical EquipmentThe Volvo Penta MD7A inboard diesel engine with 13 hp is electrically started and has two cylinders. With an average consumption of 1.5 liters per hour and a fuel tank of 50 liters, the ship is suitable for longer trips without frequent refueling stops. The engine has 3295 operating hours and is maintained annually. The electrical installation consists of two batteries with a total capacity of 185 Ah, separated by a diode bridge and charged via the alternator. In 2025, the 95 Ah house battery was replaced.The navigation equipment includes an autopilot, GPS, depth sounder, compass, and VHF radio. The available shore power connection, inverter, and voltmeter ensure a stable power supply on board, both while sailing and in the harbor.Equipment and SafetyOn deck, the Dufour 29 is equipped with a sprayhood, cockpit tent, pulpit and pushpit seats, swim ladder, and a complete set of fenders and mooring lines. The guardrail contributes to safety on deck. For anchoring, there is an anchor with chain and line available. Although the windlass is missing, the anchor is easy to handle.In terms of safety, the ship is equipped with a liferaft (certification expired), lifebuoys, fixed life jackets for children and adults, a self-righting light buoy, and a manual bilge pump. This equipment makes the ship suitable for both day trips and longer journeys.Sailing Experience and PossibilitiesThe Dufour 29 is suitable for various sailing areas, from the Frisian lakes to the Wadden Sea and the Zeeland waters. Thanks to the limited draft and air draft, the ship is also deployable on routes with bridges, such as the standing mast route. The spacious cockpit and the clear deck make the ship pleasant to handle, even with a smaller crew.The Dufour 29 is a sailing yacht with character, proven on both inland and coastal waters. The combination of classic appearance, practical layout, and solid sailing properties makes this ship attractive for sailors looking for a comfortable and versatile yacht for recreational use, vacations, or weekend trips.