1975 Dufour 35

[mart3ll_sb]

Anyone here has any experience with a 1975 Dufour 35? I'm dreaming of a future cruise with my partner and this caught our eye. Particularly, I'm interested to get your feedback if it's safe and stable for blue water sailing and if it's livable for 2 for extended cruising? How easy or difficult is it to maintain or replace any parts, considering it's an old model? Thanks in advance for your replies!

 

[beach please]

Sure the Dufour 35 has got charm and I must say decent bones as well, but you still need a full survey. The parts can be a little challenging to source, so be ready to improvise or refit a bit along the way. GL!

 

[Farmingwhiz]

I agree with @beach please, it's quite an old model, so you may need to put in some work to get it in the best shape possible. If you're up for a challenge, then you're looking at a great cruiser especially in terms of comfort and will accommodate two people well. It may feel heavy upwind, but with some proper planning you can avoid that.

What's the price on the one you're looking at?

 

[Cathy.yh]

I can vouch for its good offshore stability if it's well maintained and although the parts can be a bit tricky due to age, but with some updates, it's a capable cruiser for blue water

 

[SperryGata_]

Anyone here has any experience with a 1975 Dufour 35? I'm dreaming of a future cruise with my partner and this caught our eye. Particularly, I'm interested to get your feedback if it's safe and stable for blue water sailing and if it's livable for 2 for extended cruising? How easy or difficult is it to maintain or replace any parts, considering it's an old model? Thanks in advance for your replies!

That's a classic and a good option for your plan!
She was built like a tank and her full keel makes her incredibly stable for blue water sailing.
For two people, the space is definitely livable for extended cruising.
Maintenance is the main thing to consider like what the others suggested.
Be ready to deal with projects, but most of the parts should be standard and replaceable.
Expect to spend time and money on everything from the engine to the rigging to get her into top shape.
So yeah, it's a very capable boat with a lot of potential if you're ready for the work!