Thursday, November 3, 2022

History of Dufour Yachts

Dufour Yachts is a French, award-winning company producing cruising yachts for over 50 years. Distinctive styling, innovative ideas and a dedication to excellence that creates sailing yachts that you will be as happy sailing as you will living on.

In 1964 Michel Dufour worked as an engineer in a locomotive factory. In charge of of the workshop that fabricated parts out of a revolutionary new material fibreglass, he was quick to realise the potential of using fibreglass in boat building.

Living on the outskirts of LaRochelle a place already with a strong sailing and boatbuilding history, Michel Dufour was a passionate racing sailor.

So it wasn’t long before his passion for sailing combined with his technical knowledge of fibreglass spawned the idea for his first yacht, the “Sylph”.

Over 400 models were sold between 1964 and 1974 and launched the company soon to be known as Dufour Yachts.

Building on this success they launched the 29 foot L’Arpege in 1967. Within 10 years over 1500 models were built and now the L’Arpege is widely agreed as being a legitimate classic.

By the early ’70’s Dufour soon became the leading exporter of French fibreglass sailboats employing over 400 employees, exporting boats to over 40 countries and winning the national French Export Prize.

Selling over 700 units the Dufour 24 was one of their best sellers. The Dufour 35 boasted enormous space below decks and really good performance under sail, 450 units were sold.

Selling more than 900 from 1973 the Dufour 31 was highly innovative for her time with a spacious 6 berth interior.

Then from 1978 the Dufour 2800 successor to the 27 saw 1300 yachts built over 6 years. By 1979 the German Frer designed Dufour 3800 is recognised as an exceptional yacht and the Dufour 1800 was launched as a successor to the Dufour 25, with 200 boats launched in 3 years of production.

In the ’80’s & ’90’s Dufour Yachts were expanding rapidly and getting involved in all manner of projects. As well as acquiring long term rival GibSea Yachts Dufour Yachts worked with French clothing designers Lacoste and created the Prestige and Classic Ranges.


1980 :- Dufour T7, one of the smallest centre cockpit designs at 22 feet. 250 of these were sold in 2 years. 2 berths in the saloon and 2 in the aft cabin reached via the cockpit.

1981:- The Dufour 4800 which could accommodate up to 9 people.

1982 :- Dufour T6 & T7 launched

1983 :- Dufour 28, still a strikingly modern and good looking yacht.

1985 – 1990 :- Launch of the Dufour 32, Dufour 36, Dufour 37, Dufour 39 and Dufour 42

1990 – 1994 :- Launch of the Prestige 54, Prestige 48, Prestige 56 and Prestige 65

1988 :- The Dufour Classic 32 was launched in 1988 and quickly gained reputation as a comfortable cruising yacht remaining in production until 2004.

1995 :- Dufour Classic Line launched

1998 :- Dufour 30 was built over a 5 year period

1999 :- Re launch of the GibSea range
In 2003 the Dufour 40 is elected yacht of the year and then in 2005 Dufour began its long and fruitful partnership with famed Italian Naval Architect Umberto Felci.

2004 :- Launch of the Grand Large range of cruisers

2005 :- Launch of the 365 and 455

2006 :- Launch of the 325 , 425, 485 and 525

2008 :- Launch of the 34e and 45e Performance Cruisers

2009 :- Launch of the 40e and 405

In 2010 the Dufour 405 Grand Large is elected European Yacht of the Year. Dufour and Grand Soleil brands were sold to the Bavaria Yacht Group
Launch of the 375

2011 – Launch of the 445 and 36 Performance

2012 – Launch of the 500, 380, 410 and 450 Grand Large Models

In 2013 the company was reorganised through a management buyout of the company from the Bavaria Yacht Group. This has allowed the leadership team to continue to drive forward quality build techniques and continue to invest and focus on the production of quality sailing boats.

2013 – Launch of the 310 Grand Large. Dufour 36p named European Boat of the year and Sailing World Magazine Boat of the year.

2014 – Launch of the 560 (Feb), 382 (Sept) 350 (Dec)
Dufour 500 named Cruising World Magazine Boat of the year.

2015 :- Dufour 560 named Cruising World Magazine’s Boat of the Year
Launch of the D460

2018 :- Fountain Pajot acquires Dufour Yachts

Universal Yachting are proud to be the UK Dealer for Dufour Yachts and to be part of this longstanding sailing dynasty.

News and Updated


Monday, October 10, 2022

Family Sailing Holidays

Family Holidays, Sailing around the Solent

Head out for a weekend or longer on a family holiday with a difference.

If you already have the sailing experience to go it alone then just head to our Bareboat Charter Section for info on our fleet of yachts.

If you don’t know how to sail then our skipper will give you all the yacht sailing instruction you need and take you to all the best places. Think of it much like a ski guide.

Offering the best of both worlds you have the peace of mind knowing there is an expert pair of hands onboard but then in the evenings you are free to do what you want as a family. If you prefer we can arrange for the skipper to leave the boat each evening and sleep ashore.

You can decide on the places to visit and how much time you spend sailing. If you want a day alongside to explore then this can be worked in, we are totally flexible but using our experience we can understand what you want out of your sailing holiday and do the very best to match it.

Family Holidays

Whilst these are not being run as official RYA Training Courses, you will all naturally learn lots and gain heaps of experience as you go. If you do wish to obtain a formal RYA qualification then we can easily incorporate this into your sailing holiday.

These are just example prices based on our Dufour 360 “Scooby”. But you can of course book any of our yachts depending on the size and make up of your group.

  • 2 Day Weekend Charter – £1565
  • 5 Day Charter – £2370
  • 7 Day Week Charter – £3360

We can offer our sailing trips for any period of time you like, so just get in contact and we can look at what will work best for you.

Prices include the cost of the skipper but exclude berthing and any food.

Enquire Now


News and Updated

Blog : http://universalyachting.blog.com/

WordPress : https://wordpress.com/stats/insights/universalyachting.wordpress.com

Livejournal : http://universalyacht.livejournal.com/

Google Plus : https://plus.google.com/+UniversalYachtingSouthampton

Twitter : https://twitter.com/universalyacht

Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/ussyachting/

Slideshare : http://www.slideshare.net/universalyachting

Thursday, September 15, 2022

Sailing vs Cruising: What is the Difference?

The sea, ocean, rivers, and most water bodies are natural wonders that have been a crucial part of humans’ lives over the years since time immemorial because of their usefulness and versatility. These various water bodies can be used as a valid means of transportation, recreational activities, sporting activities, even generating electricity, etc. Under the recreational and sporting activity, boating is a relevant part. Sailing and cruising can be seen as subgroups of boating in general. What is boating generally? Boating can be defined as the act of using a boat to travel on water not just for recreational purposes but also for activities such as fishing, water sports, among other things. Sailing vs cruising, which are both terms under boating, tend to be frequently mixed up because of the similarities they share. However, they are two different terms, and the distinct features will be discussed in this writeup.

What is Sailing?

Firstly, the keyword here is “sail.” What is a sail? A sail is a piece of fabric attached to a boat that is arranged in such a way that it causes the wind to drive a boat. The sail may be attached to the boat through a combination of mast, spars, and ropes. Relatedly, sailing is an activity done on a sailboat. It involves using the wind, windsails to steer the boat on a body of water, ice, land, or any place that is “sailable” to reach a certain destination. As clearly seen in the description given above, sailing is not necessarily confined to water areas for navigation. Sailboats are specifically designed so that when sails or a sailcloth is attached to them, maneuvering the sailboat becomes an easy task. This process will be further discussed later.

What is Cruising?

Wikipedia defines cruising aptly. It refers to cruising by boat as an activity that involves living for an extended period on a vessel, usually a boat, while traveling from place to place for pleasure. Depending on the kind of cruise you are going for, there are several types of boats one can use for such recreational adventure. For instance, powerboats which are built for speed and thrills, are one type. Also, sailboats discussed earlier can be used for cruising in general. This shows that the term “cruising” is a wide term that covers even sailing. Generally, cruising attracts people more than sailing because of the fun, entertainment, and the thrill involved, and the fact that it is a very effective means for stress relief.

Dufour 61

What Are the Differences Between Sailing and Cruising?

Trip Distance

First, most sailboats are not built for long-distance voyages on the sea, ocean, or any other relevant water bodies. Therefore, it is only natural that they can travel on such waters for a short period. Besides, sailing as a recreational activity is usually done within a limited area where wind frequently blows, which makes steering really easy. Second, by contrast, cruising usually involves taking longer trips ranging from days to weeks depending on the destination(s) and the aim the rider is trying to achieve. This is because most times, a cruise usually involves more than one destination and location. Additionally, cruising boats that are mostly powered by engines are designed to easily achieve long-distance cruise travels.

Boat Size and Specifications

Generally, cruise boats are usually larger than sailboats. Note that this is just a general perspective, and there are valid exceptions. For instance, sailboats can sometimes be used for cruising purposes, as referenced earlier. Regardless of that, most cruise boats are designed to be big and perform multi-functional tasks. Luxurious cruise boats might even be large enough to contain pools, spas, and other features for the purpose of relaxation throughout the cruise. Sailboats are usually mini-crafts that are lightweight.
This is because they are usually built with the intention of letting the wind easily steer them. Although, there are a few exceptions, such as yachts that are large sailboats. Another difference is the boat specifications. Sailboats are usually steered manually with the help of winds. So most times, they lack mechanical engines. On the contrary, cruise boats are usually built with powerful engines that run on diesel. They usually generate winds and a certain sense of thrill because of the speed they produce.

Crowd Space

Obviously, it can be deduced from the past reasons given above that a sailboat will have little accommodative space because of its size. Generally, a sailboat’s capacity should range from 25-to 150 persons. In reverse, cruise boats are usually designed to hold a large number of people who go on a cruising expedition. A cruising boat’s capacity can range from 500(five hundred) to about 5000(five thousand) because of its size. A cruise boat can perform so many different functions for the people on board, and these are some of the few reasons that make cruise rides really enjoyable.

Cost

An unspoken fact in the boating world is that bigger is always far more expensive. This can also be applied to cruise and sailboats. A sailboat isn’t cheap, but it does not incur unnecessary expenses. A person interested in buying a solid sailboat can buy them within the price range of 20000(twenty thousand) dollars to 60000(sixty thousand) dollars. By opposite, sizeable are insanely expensive. They can range from 2,000,0000(two million) dollars to 1.2 billion dollars. Cruise boats are rarely bought for personal purposes, although they are sometimes. They are usually rented for recreational purposes.

Entertainment and Fun Factor

In a sailboat, due to the closeness to natural factors such as winds, the occupants use the opportunity to feel nature and have some other form of entertainment depending on the people on board and what they want. However, the fun and entertainment in a sailboat is usually not very lush. By contrast, most cruise ships/boats are literally designed for entertainment and other pleasures one might want to take part in the vessel. For instance, pools and spas which help with relaxation are usually on most cruise ships. Is it luxurious meals that will whet the appetite of the riders on board? They are usually commonplace on cruise ships. They usually range from fast food shops to even five-star restaurants depending on what you want and what you can afford. Sometimes, the riders get to see live shows, musical performances, and even famous productions starring popular actors.

Scheduling

Without rules, things tend to go haywire, and unplanned scenarios with negative effects tend to occur. Cruise ships embody these rules. Although cruise ships are filled with fun stuff and are entertainment-based, there must be a framework that guides the occupants. Cruise ships are usually specific about the dos and don’ts on board so that everything, including schedules, will work in a streamlined manner. So, in general, on a cruise boat, there is a very strict schedule to follow. By contrast, on a sailboat, there are few rules because of its simplicity. Most times, just the general rules of boating are followed to prevent drowning, deaths, and possibly wreckage.

Sailing vs Cruising: What is the Difference? – Summary

Therefore, as you probably understand now from the points above, sailing is completely different from cruising even though they are both terms under boating. In summary, sailing refers to riding specifically with sailboats, while cruising covers a wider set of scenarios.


News and Updated

Blog : http://universalyachting.blog.com/

WordPress : https://wordpress.com/stats/insights/universalyachting.wordpress.com

Livejournal : http://universalyacht.livejournal.com/

Google Plus : https://plus.google.com/+UniversalYachtingSouthampton

Twitter : https://twitter.com/universalyacht

Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/ussyachting/

Slideshare : http://www.slideshare.net/universalyachting

Monday, June 20, 2022

9 Steps You Should Take Before Buying A Yacht

There are many factors to consider when buying a yacht. Because it is a significant investment, you have to know how much you can spare. Whether you are buying brand new or looking to save on a few bucks with a brokerage, it is imperative that you follow these steps to ensure that you won’t regret your purchase.

STEP NO. 1: DEFINE YOUR PURPOSE

Yachting often comes with a connotation that you are after the luxury of sailing whenever you want. However, it can also be considered a business venture.

Because of this, the first step you should take before buying a vessel is to decide its purpose. If you plan on using the yacht for business, make sure you calculate the expenses versus the potential revenue. If you are after leisure, you should also determine the model of watercraft you need to provide you with optimum experience in the waters.

STEP NO. 2: DEDICATE TIME FOR INDUSTRY RESEARCH

Aside from deciding on a purpose, an aspiring yacht owner should also dedicate some time to researching the industry. Although this might seem like something only business-minded yacht owners can use, it is actually even more useful for those who are after the sheer pleasure of it. This is because yachting is more of a lifestyle choice rather than mere whim.

Some of the things you should do your homework on are the legal requirements of owning a vessel in your country, the cost of maintenance, potential storage facilities you can use, insurances, and taxes, among others.

STEP NO. 3: KNOW YOUR INCOME

Like cars, a yacht’s value depreciates over time. Because of this, some experts in the industry strongly believe that such vessels are deemed to be more of a lifestyle path than a business investment.

With that said, you should know how much you can and are willing to spare for your yacht. Some expenses you should consider are the yacht’s registration, insurance, taxes, storage, and maintenance.

STEP NO. 4: BE AWARE OF YOUR OPTIONS

Although it may seem unnecessary if you already have your eye on a specific model, it pays to know all your options before cashing in your first yacht. There are several options available as well as factors to consider, including:

1. NEW AND USED

The decision of whether you should get a new or used yacht depends on different things. However, it should be obvious that there is no short answer for every person who plans to take on this journey.

For some people, it is best to stick with a brand new or custom-designed yacht. Although this will cost a whole lot more than brokerage, it has its advantages.

Used vessels, on the other hand, can cost cheaper upfront but may entail a lot more work not to mention the extra expenses. Even so, there are people who strongly believe that, if you have a vessel that is structurally sound, it is possible to restore an old vessel back to its former glory.

2. DIY VS. CREWED

If you are an experienced sailor or can easily navigate the seas, you should do it yourself. After all, it pays to be an expert at something.

Still, there are neophytes in the industry who feel strongly about the lifestyle but aren’t very good out in the waters by themselves. These people have the option of hiring crew staff who not only are expert in the sport but also fully understand the standard procedures and etiquette that should be observed while yachting.


STEP NO. 5: LOOK AROUND

Never buy from the first store you see. This rule also applies when you are shopping for a yacht. Make sure to check out different offers from dealers and used yacht owners. This way, you should be able to weigh your options that will help you choose the perfect vessel that will serve your purpose best.

STEP NO. 6: READ REVIEWS

Before closing a deal, make sure to understand everything there is to know about the vessel you plan to purchase. If you’re buying brand new, you should read reviews about the builder. The same goes for brokerage. The bottom line is that you should never take up an offer without knowing nothing about the vessel you plan to procure to avoid regret that often comes in hindsight.

STEP NO. 7: DO TRIALS

Like cars, yachts can also be put on a test drive. Aside from hiring a professional surveyor to nitpick on the vessel, testing out the feel of the yacht while out in the water is also an effective way of determining whether it is the perfect fit for you.

STEP NO. 8: HIRE A REPUTABLE YACHT BROKER

Sometimes, it pays to have an expert mediating a yacht sale. It becomes even more advantageous if you, as a buyer, hire someone with a solid reputation and skill in the industry.

STEP NO. 9: PUT IT ALL TOGETHER AND BUY THE PERFECT YACHT FOR YOU

After doing every single one of the first eight steps, you can now weigh your options and decide on a perfect yacht that will not only suit your purpose but will also provide you with a peace of mind you deserve.

For more information, please contact us.


News and Updated

Blog : http://universalyachting.blog.com/

WordPress : https://wordpress.com/stats/insights/universalyachting.wordpress.com

Livejournal : http://universalyacht.livejournal.com/

Google Plus : https://plus.google.com/+UniversalYachtingSouthampton

Twitter : https://twitter.com/universalyacht

Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/ussyachting/

Slideshare : http://www.slideshare.net/universalyachting

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Dufour 470 announced as Cruising Yacht of the Year 2021

Dufour 470


The Dufour 470 has won the Cruising Yacht of the Year at The British Yachting Awards. These prestigious annual awards recognise outstanding sailing achievements and the best in equipment manufacturing and boat building. Nominees are put forward by the editors of Yachts and Yachting Magazine and Sailing Today Magazine, and the magazine readers vote for their favourites in each category.

The British Yachting Awards ceremony is held annually at the Royal Thames Yacht Club in London where the great and the good of yachting attend. The Dufour 470, which made its debut at Southampton Boat Show this year, was nominated as the first of the new look performance Dufour cruising yachts with an iconic blend of elegance, features and performance that epitomises this contemporary brand.

The clean, impressive lines and reverse chamfer topsides create a striking profile and the wide hull shape is designed for performance and stability in a wide range of sailing conditions. This smart design is available in three models, Easy, Ocean or Performance to suit all types of sailors and lifestyles.

Rob Peake, Group Editor of Sailing Today commented, “The Dufour 470 is Dufour’s first injection moulded hull where the designer has pushed the chines very far forward creating greater stiffness as well as a huge cabin for the owner.”


News and Updated

Blog : http://universalyachting.blog.com/

WordPress : https://wordpress.com/stats/insights/universalyachting.wordpress.com

Livejournal : http://universalyacht.livejournal.com/

Google Plus : https://plus.google.com/+UniversalYachtingSouthampton

Twitter : https://twitter.com/universalyacht

Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/ussyachting/

Slideshare : http://www.slideshare.net/universalyachting










Wednesday, March 16, 2022

RYA Training in 2022

 


One of the primary aims for our sailing school was always to be able to offer clients the very latest in the range of Dufour Yachts which sat neatly alongside our role as UK Agents for Dufour Yachts.

Being able to offer the newest models available is extremely important to us and we always planed to continually update and replace our fleet as new models came on line.

One of the impacts of Covid was that we held onto our fleet for longer than planned. Subsequently lead times have extended for new boats and as a result we have taken the decision to step back from charter in 2022. This will allow us to plan the arrival of some new boats in 2023 and pick up where we left off.

Please do sign up to our news letters and we will keep everyone informed of our exciting plans for 2023 as they evolve.


News and Updated

Blog : http://universalyachting.blog.com/
WordPress : https://wordpress.com/stats/insights/universalyachting.wordpress.com
Livejournal : http://universalyacht.livejournal.com/
Google Plus : https://plus.google.com/+UniversalYachtingSouthampton
Twitter : https://twitter.com/universalyacht
Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/ussyachting/
Slideshare : http://www.slideshare.net/universalyachting