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52data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this DUFOUR 39 (FRERS) buyer’s report
DUFOUR 39 (FRERS)

DUFOUR 39 (FRERS)

Dufour🇫🇷· Design: German Frers
1982–1994160 built
$2.4K – $6.3K est. annual maintenance
Offshore CruisermonoMasthead SloopFin

Specifications

Hull

LOA39.3 ft
LWL30.51 ft
Beam12.47 ft
Draft6.75 ft
Displacement14,991 lb
Ballast6,988.6 lb
Material22.0
Hull speed1.34·√LWL7.4 kn

Rig & Sails

Iforetriangle height48.2 ft
Jforetriangle base15.2 ft
Pmainsail luff42 ft
Emainsail foot14.4 ft
FLforestay15.2 ft
Mainsail692.9 sq ft
Jib (100%)366.3 sq ft
Spinnaker622.7 sq ft

Accommodation

Cabins2
Berths6
Heads6
Water52.8 L
Fuel29.1 L
CE categoryN/A€

About the DUFOUR 39 (FRERS)

A number of DUFOUR 39's were sold directly to the Med-Agean charter trade. The relatively few boats delivered to the US were often fitted with teak decks and other options. Available with wing keel - draft: 5.58'. Thanks to Philippe Candelier for additional information.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by German Frers and built by Dufour in France, the Dufour 39 is a performance-oriented cruiser produced between 1982 and 1994 with a total build count of 160 hulls. This model represents a distinct era of European yacht design, balancing speed with cruising comfort through its fin keel and masthead sloop rig.

Best for:
This boat suits coastal cruisers and performance-oriented sailors who prioritize sailing dynamics over heavy offshore provisioning, as evidenced by the prevalence of upgrades like biminis and bow thrusters for easier handling.
Bluewater capability:
With a displacement of 14991.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.03, the boat offers moderate offshore capability, though its relatively light displacement and fin keel suggest it is better suited for protected waters than heavy ocean passages.
Comparables:
Comparable boats from this era include the Beneteau First 36 and the O'Day 38, as they share similar displacement ranges and target the same market of active weekend cruisers seeking responsive handling.

Performance

Comfort24.3
Capsize2.03
SA/Disp17.7
Disp/Len236
Bal/Disp46.6

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the DUFOUR 39 (FRERS) yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 39.3ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$2.4K – $6.3K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Articles & Reviews

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

6 reported issues across 4 systems for the DUFOUR 39 (FRERS), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

2 critical1 major3 minor
Rigging2Interior2Rudder1Keel1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a DUFOUR 39 (FRERS)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • All 6 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
  • Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep

One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

Similar Sailboats

Which engine powers your DUFOUR 39 (FRERS)?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Perkins — is it one of these?

Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the DUFOUR 39 (FRERS)

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…