This is the first accolade for the new Dufour 48 yacht, which has already been named one of the Top 10 Best Boats 2026 by Sail magazine. Making her premiere at the Palma Boat Show from 30th April to 3rd May, plenty of fans have already enjoyed the opportunity to step aboard.
The international boating press then took the Dufour 48 out to sea in perfect conditions and idyllic surroundings. This was an opportunity to demonstrate the seakeeping qualities and premium comfort of this exceptional new sailing yacht from Dufour.
Already nominated for an international award
The editor-in-chief of the American magazine Sail travelled from the United States to the Spain’s Balearic Islands to take the helm of the Dufour 48. The journalist recounts the experience in her report.
The Dufour 48 rolled like a freight train in the breeze, even in the gusts. With significant pre-bend built into the Z Spar mast and optional hydraulic backstays, this sailplan of 210-square-foot main and 108% genoa felt powerful and stable. In 15 knots true, she carved to weather at an apparent wind angle of 32 degrees making an easy 7.5 knots, picking up smartly in the gusts and never feeling overpowered.”
The many qualities of the Dufour 48 impressed the editors of the US boating publication Sail Magazine which has already announced the nomination of this exceptional yacht for the Top 10 Best Boats 2026!
Dufour 48 – The yacht of all innovations
The Dufour 48 embodies all the DNA of the Dufour shipyard: innovation, performance and elegance. Designed to enhance sailing and provide exceptional living comfort, this new-generation sailing yacht is the fruit of meticulous work between the Dufour teams and naval architect Umberto Felci.
Life focused on the outdoors
Designed to make maximum use of the outdoor space, the Dufour 48 encourages a real reconnection with the sea. The yacht offers two spacious sunbathing areas, one at the bow with a cockpit, the other in the aft cockpit, which can be converted into a lounge area thanks to its lowerable tables. The redesigned aft platform transforms into a welcoming bathing area with a plancha grill accompanied by a sink and grill.
On board safety hasn’t been overlooked either: clear side-decks, genoa tracks located on the coachroof, and practical halyard bags ensure smooth and safe movement around the boat.
Bright and modular interiors
The Dufour 48 also stands out from the crowd thanks to her refined interior layout. Created by Luca Ardizio, the interior design prioritises natural light with optimised glazing on the coachroof, offering a 360° panoramic view. The atmosphere is warm, modern and comfortable.
The owner’s cabin, worthy of a suite, features generous storage space and a TV cabinet on a lifting system. The yacht offers several layout options: a forward or lateral galley, an adaptable hexagonal table, a choice of cabin configuration, and modular bathrooms that can also be converted into an office space or a Pullman cabin.
Exceptional marine performance
Faithful to the brand’s seafaring spirit, the Dufour 48 offers remarkable performance under sail. Thanks to her single rudder, she guarantees excellent manoeuvrability and precise handling at the helm. The innovative hull form combines stability and speed for dynamic and enjoyable sailing.
In short, the Dufour 48 is so much more than just a sailing yacht: It’s an intuitive sailing experience, offering premium comfort with ever-more innovation.
Where to visit the new Dufour 48?
Dufour Open Days La Rochelle
July 3 – 5
– – –
Cannes Yachting Festival
September 9 – 14
– – –
Genoa Boat Show
September 18 – 23