Looking for a Larger Boat

[Cathy.yh]

Weve been sailing our dufour 360 for the past few seasons, first boat I've really grown attached to, we took it all up and down the coast, a few overnighters with family and friends on my birthday, and more than a handful of solo escapes. It's been great, honestly but now with the kids getting older and more friends tagging along, we been eyeing the 430 or maybe even the 470 if my husband can get bold, not like were not planning to live aboard full time, but I want more comfort for longer trips and something that still feels lively on the helm and also I figure this might be the last upgrade for a while, so I want us to do it right.

so, is getting a bigger one really a good idea and also about the 430 or 470, which one is better recommended for us

 

[LazyJackLife]

Great to hear about your 360! If you're looking for a bit more space while keeping the fun at the helm, the 430 might be a good fit. The 470 gives you even more room, which is nice for longer trips. It really depends on how far you plan to go. Have you had a chance to test sail either one yet?

 

[SperryGata_]

Weve been sailing our dufour 360 for the past few seasons, first boat I've really grown attached to, we took it all up and down the coast, a few overnighters with family and friends on my birthday, and more than a handful of solo escapes. It's been great, honestly but now with the kids getting older and more friends tagging along, we been eyeing the 430 or maybe even the 470 if my husband can get bold, not like were not planning to live aboard full time, but I want more comfort for longer trips and something that still feels lively on the helm and also I figure this might be the last upgrade for a while, so I want us to do it right.

so, is getting a bigger one really a good idea and also about the 430 or 470, which one is better recommended for us

It's fantastic to know how much you've enjoyed your 360!
I imagine it might not be so easy but it's really a classic scenario to outgrow a boat as the family expands and preferences evolve.
Both the Dufour 430 and 470 are excellent choices.
The 430 offers a significant step up in space and comfort from your 360, with a larger galley and more cabins.
It's designed for a great balance of cruising comfort and responsive sailing, so it should still feel lively at the helm.
The 470 is an even bigger jump, providing more generous space, often with additional cabins and heads, making it super comfortable for larger groups or longer trips.
You'll get a bigger cockpit and more deck space.
It is also designed to maintain a lively feel at the helm, and it comes in different versions to match your sailing style.
I know I didn't really give a straight answer but maybe walking through the boats to get a real feel for the space and imagining your family and friends aboard would help?