Dufour 390 for sale

Yachting Address Review — Dufour 390

The Dufour 390 is one of the rare models in the Dufour range that has carried two radically different identities under the same name — and understanding which version you are looking at on the used market is the first step before arranging any viewing.

Two Generations, Two Different Boats

The first-generation Dufour 390 (2016–2021, 11.93–11.99 meters) is the direct heir to Dufour's Felci-designed tradition — a genuine offshore cruising yacht of nearly 12 meters, featuring three double cabins and up to three heads in the best-equipped layouts, powered by a 40 hp Volvo Penta saildrive. It is a large cruising yacht in every sense of the word — generous interior volumes, capable of serious long-distance cruising, and designed for sailors who take their time on the water seriously. The 2019 examples available on this page range from €140,000 excluding VAT to €259,000 including VAT, a considerable spread that reflects major differences in equipment levels and overall condition.

The new-generation Dufour 390 (from 2023 onward, 10.50–11.94 meters depending on configuration) represents a complete architectural shift. This more compact yacht — the 10.50-meter version is noticeably smaller than the previous generation — follows Dufour's post-2020 philosophy: offshore racing-inspired hulls, a sportier cockpit, and contemporary interiors. The 2024 example listed in Sardinia at €233,000 excluding VAT is representative of this near-new market segment.

What the First Generation Offers

The 2016–2021 Dufour 390 represents the most accomplished expression of the Felci lineage within the Dufour range before the transition to the latest generation of models. At almost 12 meters in length, it offers a level of interior accommodation that very few production sailboats can match within this price bracket: three genuine enclosed double cabins, each with its own head on the best-equipped three-cabin versions, a bright and spacious saloon, and a galley designed for extended cruising rather than weekend use.

Its wide hull and moderate displacement provide reassuring stability at sea. This is a yacht that remains predictable and comfortable when conditions become challenging. It is not the sportiest yacht in its category, but it is one of the most coherent choices for families intending to spend several weeks aboard at a time.

The standard draft of 1.95 meters allows access to the vast majority of Mediterranean and Atlantic marinas — a practical advantage compared with GTE versions drawing approximately 2.30 meters, which can restrict access to certain anchorages and harbors.

Explaining the Price Gap Within the First Generation

The range between €140,000 excluding VAT and €259,000 including VAT for boats from the same 2019 model year may seem surprising. In reality, it is explained by three cumulative factors.

Equipment levels come first. Some owners invested €30,000 to €50,000 in factory options when purchasing new: Ocean Package, bow thruster, solar panels, generator, complete B&G electronics suites, air conditioning, and more. These investments naturally influence resale values.

Overall condition is the second factor. A 2019 yacht that spent several seasons in intensive Mediterranean charter service cannot be valued in the same way as a privately owned example maintained by a single owner with a documented service history.

Location and documentation also play a role. A yacht based in France or Sicily with clear documentation and represented by a professional broker generally sells faster and at a higher price than a similar boat requiring more complex administrative procedures.

What the New Generation Brings

The new Dufour 390 introduced in 2023 follows the same philosophy as the current Dufour 37 and Dufour 44: a finer hull shape, offshore racing inspiration, and greater attention to cockpit ergonomics and finish quality. It is a more dynamic and performance-oriented sailing yacht, although interior volume is reduced compared with the previous generation, particularly in the more compact 10.50-meter configurations.

For now, its market is essentially composed of new or nearly new boats. Meaningful depreciation is unlikely to appear before 2026–2027.

Key Points to Check When Buying Used

On the first-generation models, the Volvo Penta saildrive diaphragm seal is the first mandatory inspection point. Request documentation showing the date and invoice of the most recent replacement. Sail condition on 2016–2018 examples deserves careful scrutiny — a fully battened mainsail that is eight or nine years old has often lost a significant portion of its original shape. Standing rigging on the oldest boats is now approaching or exceeding recommended replacement intervals. Finally, on former charter boats, pay particular attention to the condition of winches and rope clutches, which are the components most heavily used by successive crews.

On the new generation, the same saildrive inspection remains relevant. Buyers should also verify the complete equipment inventory and ensure that any installed bow thruster operates correctly.

Dufour 390 Market Prices in 2025–2026

Indicative price ranges, May 2026 market. VAT included unless otherwise stated.

Our verdict: The first-generation Dufour 390 is one of the most complete cruising yachts available on the used market in the 11–12 meter category, provided buyers are willing to pay for genuine quality and budget appropriately for maintenance. A well-equipped 2019 owner-operated example priced between €185,000 and €220,000, with a recently replaced saildrive seal and sails in good condition, is among the strongest purchases currently available in this segment. The new generation shows considerable promise, but it is still too young to offer genuine second-hand value opportunities — patience is advised.