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Sailboat Specifications

Dufour Classic 45

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder

Designed by J & J Designs/Olivier Poncin · Built by Dufour Yachts (Fra) · First built 1988

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LOA 45.92 ft  ·  Beam 14.17 ft  ·  Displacement 24,180.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 884  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder
About the Dufour Classic 45 Sailboat

French yacht builder Dufour launched the Classic 45 as part of their traditional cruising line, designed to blend classic aesthetics with modern sailing performance. This mid-sized cruiser represents Dufour's commitment to creating boats that honor traditional sailboat design while incorporating contemporary construction techniques and materials. Built for serious coastal and offshore cruising, the Classic 45 features the kind of robust construction and thoughtful layout that made Dufour's reputation in the cruising market. The boat's design emphasizes comfort and seaworthiness over pure speed, making it well-suited for extended passages and live-aboard cruising. Her classic lines and proportions give her a timeless appeal that stands apart from more contemporary angular designs. The interior typically showcases quality joinery and practical layouts optimized for long-term cruising comfort. Dufour's attention to detail in galley design, sleeping quarters, and storage solutions makes the Classic 45 particularly appealing to cruisers planning extended voyages. While she may not win weekend races, this boat excels in the conditions that matter most to serious cruising sailors: comfort, reliability, and seaworthiness in varied conditions.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 45.92 ft / 14.00 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 37.42 ft / 11.41 m
Beam 14.17 ft / 4.32 m
Max Draft 7.67 ft / 2.34 m
Displacement 24,180.00 lb / 10,968 kg
Ballast 8,700.00 lb / 3,946 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 884
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/bulb & spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer J & J Designs/Olivier Poncin
Builder Dufour Yachts (FRA)
First Built 1988
Related Sailboats Bavaria 46 · X 452 · Oyster 46 · Centurion 45 · Moody 45 Classic
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Engine & Accommodations
Horsepower 60
Fuel Capacity 58 gals / 220 L
Water Capacity 120 gals / 454 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Dufour Classic 45's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Dufour Classic 45 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.98. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Dufour Classic 45's comfort ratio?

The Dufour Classic 45 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 27.38. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Dufour Classic 45 safe for offshore sailing?

The Dufour Classic 45 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.96. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Dufour Classic 45?

The theoretical hull speed of the Dufour Classic 45 is 8.2 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Dufour Classic 45 weigh?

The Dufour Classic 45 has a displacement of 24,180.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 45.92 ft.

Who designed the Dufour Classic 45?

The Dufour Classic 45 was designed by J & J Designs/Olivier Poncin, first built in 1988.