2018 Dufour 382 Grand Large

Step aboard and you’ll notice how the beam carries aft, giving the cockpit a big-boat feel without making docking a wrestling match. Twin wheels open up the walkthrough transom, so moving from helm to swim platform is effortless when you’re shuttling people and gear by dinghy. Under sail, that hard chine gives the 382 a pleasantly stiff feel when pressed, and she tracks straight even when the breeze pipes up. Down below, hull windows and overhead hatches flood the salon with natural light, making it feel far larger than the numbers suggest. Storage has been cleverly tucked everywhere—ideal for stowing provisions, spares, and those “just in case” sails that always seem to come along for the ride.

In these waters, conditions can shift from light morning zephyrs to punchy afternoon breezes, and the Dufour 382 Grand Large is designed to take that in stride. The responsive hull and efficient sail plan make the most of lighter air, while the pronounced chine and balanced rudders give reassuring control when the wind fills in and short chop builds. Shoal-friendly draft options and a powerful engine make slipping into tighter anchorages or maneuvering around crowded moorings far less stressful. On longer coastal hops, the generous cockpit, protected companionway, and comfortable interior layout turn passage time into part of the pleasure rather than something merely to endure.