Description
Aquila is an outstanding example of the Dufour 385 Grand Large, launched in 2005 as the London Boat Show 40th Anniversary Display Model — boasting numerous extras from new.
Lovingly maintained and continuously upgraded by her current owners since 2011, she has provided safe, fast, and spacious family cruising across the Bristol Channel, English Channel, Brittany, Ireland, and Scotland.
Owned by a professional engineer, Aquila has benefited from a programme of continual refinement and upgrades completed to an exceptionally high technical standard. Every system onboard has been thoughtfully improved or modernised with meticulous attention to detail, making this one of the most comprehensively equipped and capable examples of the Dufour 385 Grand Large currently on the market.
With an elegant interior, extensive documentation, and modernised systems throughout, Aquila represents a rare opportunity to acquire a turn-key cruiser of proven capability.
Fully documented, UK VAT Paid, and SSR registered.
Engine & Machinery
Electrics
- Voltage: 12V and 220V
- Domestic Batteries: 2 x 105Ah sealed lead-acid
- Engine Battery: 1 x 75Ah sealed lead-acid (new 2025)
- Battery Charger: Cristec 25A
- Shore Power: Yes
- Solar Panels: 1 x 100W panel with MPPT regulator
- Additional Features:
- New switch panel
- Multiple USB and 12V outlets
- UK mains sockets in all cabins
Fully integrated systems
Tanks
- Fuel Capacity: 160 litres (1 tank)
- Water Capacity: 320 litres (2 tanks)
- Holding Tank: 55 litres (1 tank fitted)
Rigging & Sails
Sails
- Mainsail: Kemp (2020), 31.5 m², fully battened, 3 reef, serviced 2025
- Genoa: 42.6 m², 140% overlapping, adjustable sheet cars, serviced 2025
- Spinnaker: Gennaker on Karver furling system with removable bowsprit
- Sail Handling: Stackaway system, lazy jacks
- Winches:
- 2 x Lewmar 44.2 ST (Genoa)
- 1 x Lewmar 32.2 ST (Main & halyards starboard)
- 1 x Lewmar 32.2 ST (Port halyards)
- Snatch block / barber hauler included
- Running Rigging: Washed annually, replaced as needed
Accommodation
- Berths: 8
- Cabins: 3
- Doubles: 3 + convertible saloon table (2 adults or 3 children)
- Heads: 1
- Heating: Webasto Evo 40 diesel heater (fitted 2023)
- Hot Water (Calorifier): Quick 20L – via engine & shore power
- Fridge: Yes
- Cooker: Nelson 2-burner with grill and oven
- Entertainment:
- Smart TV with DVD player
- Fusion stereo system
Interior Finish: Enhanced storage, 7” pocket spring mattress (forward), foam toppers (aft), upgraded cushions
Deck Equipment
Navigation & Instruments
Tender & Outboard (Optional / Negotiable)
- Tender: Tinker Tramp with sailing kit & oars
- Outboard: ePropulsion electric
- Other Available Equipment (Subject to separate negotiation):
Safety Equipment
- Life Raft: 6-man (service required)
- EPIRB: Yes
- Life Jackets: 4
- Lifebuoys: 2
- Danbuoy: 1
- Electric Bilge Pump: 1
- Manual Bilge Pump: 1
- Radar Reflector: Yes
- Emergency Tiller: Yes
- Gas Alarm: Yes
- Fire Blanket: 1
- Fire Extinguishers: 6
- Jackstays: Yes
- PLBs: 2
- Gas System: Solenoid shut-off, bubble leak detector, inspection certificate (2025)
Additional Information
- SSR registered
- Many other features/upgrades not specified above and can be shown when viewing
- Full documentation including original owner’s manuals, VAT proof, and maintenance history
- Lightly used, well-maintained example
- Currently lying: Cardiff, UK