Dufour Atoll 43

According to the Australian importer Karen Maxwell, the Atoll's party platform concept is ideal for cruising and entertaining, particularly in warmer climes.

The exterior living space offers panoramic views and takes up close to half the boat's 13.0m length. Indicative of its role as a comfortable cruiser, the vessel has a generous 4.64m beam.

The daytime area, above deck, features a large saloon with padded wraparound seating, a vast galley to port with more than 300lt cold storage and a navigation station to starboard. The living space is sheltered from the elements with a hard top, hood and windscreen. The area can be heated if necessary.

Another unusual creature comfort is the cushioned sunbathing well set into the foredeck. At the walk-through transom is a well and swim ladder to provide easy access into the cockpit.

Three steps lead under the deck, which has been designed on simple and functional lines. Accommodating a charter party of up to eight, it has four double berths with the two front cabins transforming into one master if required. There are opening hatches and ports in all the cabins for good ventilation, purpose-built lockers and ample stowage space throughout.

Despite its cruising credentials, sailability has not been ignored, Maxwell says. The Atoll range, which now includes 36 and 50-foot versions, is designed by Phillipe Briand, known for a number of successful French racing yachts. It has a large fractional rig with fully-battened mainsail, single line reefing and a furling headsail with just 110% overlap, making it easy to handle. Set up for single-handed sailing, all the winches, sheets and control lines are positioned within easy reach of the helmsman.

When powered by a 62hp motor with three-bladed prop, the Atoll 43 can reach speeds of up to 8kt.

Providing true bluewater cruising autonomy, the vessel is equipped with twin 550lt water tanks and carries 500lt of fuel.