DUFOUR 360

THE TEST VERDICT

There is so much on this boat that is right. She is a delightfully easy-to-sail cruiser with a great cockpit layout, a light and spacious saloon and open forecabin. In the two-cabin version, you get a boat with loads of deck stowage, a big heads compartment, a decent fixed forward-facing chart table and a good sea berth to starboard in the saloon that can be used without the navigator interrupting your sleep. You’ll also have a large cockpit locker.

There were some issues with the three-cabin version, the starboard aft cabin’s lack of legroom and its usability for adults being the main gripe. Virtually all of this boat’s flaws can be remedied by opting for the two-cabin, six/seven-berth version, but you could live with the compromises for a boat that will sleep up to nine people. Access to the primary fuel filter was also difficult, but this could be relocated. Better lighting in the galley would be nice too.

WOULD SHE SUIT YOU AND YOUR CREW?

She sails well, and while those who know what to do with a mainsheet track might miss it, most won’t, and she is simple to sail. Under power, she’s easier to handle in tight spaces thanks to her deep single rudder that catches plenty of propwash.

The construction methods might be a bit utilitarian for some. For those who can look past these details, however, she offers a simple-to-sail coastal cruiser that will get you and your friends or family on the water and provide the platform for some wonderful summer cruises. In the two-cabin version, she would be ideal for a couple to take one, two or more friends sailing, while the three-cabin version will be popular for charter and for those who are happy with the compromises to fit in an extra double cabin.

This boat is available to charter from Universal Yachting on the Hamble, giving you the opportunity to try before you buy