Euros 39 (Amel) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Amel Euros 39 traces back to 1966, just a year after Chantiers Amel formally established its workshops in La Rochelle. Production of the Euros 39 continued until 1972. Henri Amel, the shipyard's founder, was driven by a deep-seated passion for ocean sailing and a desire to construct yachts that were exceptionally robust, supremely comfortable, and manageable for their owners, thereby facilitating ambitious voyages. Amel was an early adopter and pioneer of fiberglass (GRP) construction, a material chosen for its durability and suitability for demanding ocean conditions.

The Euros 39 was Amel's first ketch-rigged vessel, a configuration that would become a hallmark of many subsequent Amel designs, prized for its inherent stability and versatility in sail handling. While specific design philosophies for the Euros 39 aren't extensively documented, it is evident that Henri Amel's broader vision of creating capable "travel boats" positioned this model firmly in the offshore cruising market. The yard faced a significant challenge with a fire in 1968, but production of the Euros 39 persisted, underlining its importance to the nascent company.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Amel Euros 39, with its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, was designed for steady, comfortable progress rather than outright speed. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 280 indicates a moderately heavy-displacement cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway, ideal for extended passages. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.38 contributes to a respectable level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze, a crucial attribute for offshore sailing.

With a sail area to displacement ratio of about 15.06, the Euros 39 is not intended to be a light-air performer, instead excelling in more consistent winds where its robust build and ketch rig can be fully utilized. The ketch rig itself provides inherent benefits for stability and offers greater flexibility in sail configuration for varying conditions, simplifying sail handling for a small crew. Owners report the Euros 39 as a capable classic design, known for its security and comfort at sea. Its hull speed is approximately 7.16 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with long-distance cruising in mind, the Amel Euros 39 offers a surprisingly spacious interior for a yacht of its size from the late 1960s. The vessel typically features a layout comprising two private cabins and a single head, providing comfortable liveaboard accommodations. With a maximum headroom of 6.66 feet, the interior feels open and inviting.

While specific details of original finish quality and materials are scarce, Amel yachts are generally renowned for their high-quality finishes and durable construction, suggesting a well-appointed interior for its time. The boat features generous tankage, with a fuel capacity of 66 gallons and a substantial water capacity of 124 gallons, emphasizing its design for extended self-sufficiency at sea. Some examples of the Euros 39 have been seen with teak decks, a common feature for quality cruising yachts of the era. Listings for well-maintained examples often highlight owners' efforts to refurbish and update interiors, indicating a lasting appeal for the model.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Amel Euros 39 frequently praise its robust construction and the sense of security it imparts at sea, aligning with Henri Amel's foundational design principles. Many examples have been meticulously maintained and updated over decades, underscoring the enduring value and dedication of their custodians. The vessel is often described as a "capable classic design" and is recognized as a formidable cruising sailboat.

However, some general observations about Amel yachts, potentially applicable to older models like the Euros 39, suggest they can be seen as "complicated" due to their systems, and their layouts, while functional, might not feel as expansive as some expect. Despite these minor points, the strong loyalty and active community surrounding Amel yachts, including independent owner groups, attest to a highly regarded ownership experience.