French yacht builder Dufour has launched a ‘virtual marina’ where customers can visit the brand’s models at a safe distance, and in the comfort of their own homes.
“In this springtime period when everyone should be able to sail and go to boat shows, the priority today is to stay at home,” said the company based near La Rochelle.
“Our departments are also protected and they are already preparing with all our partners the return to full activity and stay with you.
“In this expectation, we have designed this virtual marina to visit all the Dufour yachts while staying at home. It’s the best way for us to continue to inspire you, to make you dream, and to share our common passion.”
The Dufour website hosts the virtual guided tour not unlike the real-life experience, where you can ‘walk’ along a CGI jetty and explore the full range of boats, inside and out.
And Dufour’s Irish dealers at Crosshaven Boatyard have welcomed the initiative, with broker Hugh Mockler saying: “No matter where in the world you are, we all love to walk the marinas to admire what’s on offer. Dufour’s new virtual marina offers you just that.
“Just follow what looks like a yellow brick road and click on the yellow spot. This will then bring you on board each yacht to have a nose. It really is very clever and brings us into a dream for the future.”
Hugh added: “Our hearts go out to all the people that have suffered and are suffering during this awful time. We all look forward to a better and kinder future.”