MONOHULLS CRUISING
DUFOUR GRAND LARGE 430
The third-largest model in the Grand Large line, the Dufour Grand Large 430 shares many of the same features found in the Grand Large 390, including a high-volume hull form with chines and a fractional rig and deck-stepped, double-spread aluminum mast. The deck is comprised of an injected sandwich with a PU foam core, and the hand-laminated polyester hull employs an NPG gelcoat layer to help ward off blisters. Topsides, the name of the game is comfort, with twin helms and a split backstay for unfettered access to a substantial drop-down swim step aft, clear sightlines and an outdoor grill. Dufour Yachts, dufour-yachts.com
TARTAN 365
In a world of European-built boats, there’s no mistaking an Ohio-built Tartan. Created by longtime Tartan designer Tim Jackett, the Tartan 365 carries on the company’s tradition of good looks and exceptional build quality, with an eye toward making knots in a wide variety of conditions. Minimal bow overhang, for example, extends the boat’s sailing length, while a high-aspect blade rudder and fin keel promise good control and satisfying VMG’s to windward. Topsides the boat sports a pair of lightweight carbon steering pedestals. Overhead, Tartan’s trademark CCR (Cruise Control Rig), which includes a carbon mast, makes sail handling a snap, even in heavy weather. Tartan Yachts, tartanyachts.com
SOUTHERLY 480
In the wake of its acquisition by Discovery Yachts Group, Southerly made a number of moves to further refine its 480 for an all-new class of sailors. However, the basic Southerly “go-anywhere” mindset is very much evident in such Southerly hallmarks as a raised, well-protected helm station; a crew-friendly double-headsail rig with a self-tacking inner jib for downshifting in heavy weather; twin rudders; and, of course, the trademark Southerly “swing keel” system that reduces draft to just 3ft and allows the boat to safely take the ground. The result is a true bluewater cruising boat that is as comfortable gunkholing a thin-water anchorage as it is crossing oceans. Southerly
Yachts, southerlyyachts.com; sjyachts.com (in the U.S.)