The professional's opinion
This Dufour 45 E Performance is particularly attractive for a sailor who doesn't want to choose between sailing pleasure and onboard comfort. Its Performance mast, 2.30 m draft, and sail plan give it a true marine character, while its 3 cabins, 2 bathrooms, and equipment allow for relaxed cruising. The bow thruster, electric winch, autopilot, AIS, and solar panel also provide a consistent level of equipment for a vessel of this size.
Description
DUFOUR 45 E PERFORMANCE FROM 2011 FOR SALE – HIGH PERFORMANCE CRUISING SAILBOAT WITH 3 CABINS
This DUFOUR 45 E PERFORMANCE from 2011 for sale is a 13.60 meter sailboat designed for sailors seeking both impressive performance under sail and genuine cruising comfort. With its Performance mast, a draft of 2.30 m and a layout of 3 cabins / 2 bathrooms, it offers a highly versatile program to sail fast while maintaining spacious volumes onboard.
The engine is a 55 HP Volvo Penta diesel with Sail-drive transmission. The engine currently has 1,829 hours (and counting). The boat is also equipped with a bow thruster, especially appreciated for easing port maneuvers on a vessel of this size.
Under sail, this Dufour 45 E Performance features equipment consistent with its purpose: Full Batten mainsail, genoa, gennaker, lazy bag, and electric winch. This setup allows full enjoyment of the boat’s qualities while simplifying maneuvers onboard.
The electronic equipment includes a autopilot and AIS, two valuable elements for cruising and longer passages. A solar panel also contributes to the boat’s electrical autonomy.
The outdoor comfort is enhanced by a
Inside, the 3 cabins and 2 bathrooms provide comfortable accommodation for family or friends. The saloon is convertible, and the boat can accommodate up to 8 berths. It also includes a refrigerator, microwave oven, water heater, marine toilet, and electric toilet.
This second-hand Dufour 45 E Performance may particularly appeal to a sailor seeking more thrill and performance under sail than a pure cruiser, while maintaining the comfort needed for trips lasting several days or weeks.
To receive the full dossier, view photos and video, or arrange a visit to this Dufour 45 E Performance for sale in France, do not hesitate to contact us.
Features
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Dufour 45 E Performance and a Dufour 45 designed solely for cruising?
The Performance version places more emphasis on sailing performance, notably thanks to its Performance mast and a draft of 2.30 meters. It targets sailors who want to maintain true cruising comfort while seeking more sensations at the helm.
Is the Dufour 45 E Performance reserved for sporty sailors?
No. Its positioning is more performance-oriented than a pure cruiser, but its 3 cabins, 2 bathrooms, comfort equipment, and maneuvering aids allow it to maintain a true cruising program.
What is the purpose of AIS on a cruising sailboat?
AIS allows for receiving information from equipped vessels and simplifies their identification. It is particularly useful equipment during busy coastal navigation or crossings.
Why choose a Dufour 45 E Performance over a heavier, more comfort-oriented sailboat?
A buyer choosing this model generally seeks more enjoyment at the helm and sailing performance, without wanting to give up space and comfort needed for travel.
Engine
Location
France 66 · Pyrénées-Orientales
Equipment
Layout and water
- Convertible saloon (with cushion)
- water heater (220V + motor)
- cockpit cushions
- Sea water pump in the kitchen
- Black water tank (x 1)
- Sail locker
- electric toilet
- Manual toilet
Armament and safety
- Coastal armament
- Lifeboat (2025 coastal)
Kitchen and appliances
- Gas stove (Eno 2022)
- Microwave
- 12V refrigerator (double door)
Various
- Teak cockpit
- cockpit cushion
- DANFR 500€
- hot/cold handheld showerhead
- steering wheel cover(s)
- Teak handrails
- Teak deck
Electricity
- Service battery (4x105 from 2026)
- Engine battery (1 x 105 from 2026)
- Battery charger (Cristec)
- Solar panels
Electronics
- AIS receiver (2024)
- Navigation Center (from 2024)
- 12v circuit
- 220 v circuit
- Anemometer / wind vane combo
- compass
- lake
- Autopilot
- dockside connection
- 220 v sockets
- Transducer
- speedometer
- fixed VHF
Multimedia
- External speakers
- Television
Deck and exterior
- Bimini
- Roof hatch (2026)
- swim ladder
- Electric windlass
- Anchoring (chain + pennant = 49m Delta 30 kg anchor)
- Electric bilge pump
- Bow thruster
- Cockpit table (plus a larger one)
- Aft hatch (electric)
Sails and rigging
- double wheel steering
- gennaker
- Furling jib (original, revised 2025)
- Full batten mainsail (OneSails triradial DCX of 2025, self-tacking 1 reef + 3)
- Sailing rig 2011
- Rigid furling stay
- Lazy bag
- adjustable bobstay
- Electric winch










