Cal 39 Mk II (1-147) Information, Review, Specs

The Cal 39 Mk II emerged from a rich lineage of successful Cal designs, with its production beginning in 1978 and continuing through 1982. Its creation was guided by C. William Lapworth's design philosophy, which aimed to produce a balanced racer-cruiser capable of high performance, particularly upwind, while also providing practical cruising accommodations. During this era, Jensen Marine, the company behind the iconic Cal brand, was renowned for its innovative use of fiberglass and a manufacturing ethos centered on building solid, well-constructed, and tough yachts that remained remarkably easy to sail and comfortable. Cal boats of this period were often praised for their excellent tracking and dry ride, making them popular choices for both competitive racing and leisurely family cruising.

Throughout its production run, the Cal 39 model saw subtle evolutions. The Mk II, which is sometimes simply referred to as "the 39" from this period, notably had variations including a shallow draft option of 5.5 feet and a tall rig configuration with specific mast dimensions (I: 54.00', J: 16.67', P: 48.00', E: 13.75'). This flexibility allowed owners to select a boat tailored to their sailing grounds and performance aspirations. It was succeeded by the Cal 39 Mk III around 1981, which introduced an expanded aft cabin and other minor design refinements.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cal 39 Mk II is characterized by a design that prioritizes both performance and stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.32, she exhibits a balanced performance profile, suggesting capability across a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in heavy winds. Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of roughly 0.41 indicates a stiff and stable boat, well-equipped to stand up to significant wind and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 229.5 positions the Cal 39 Mk II as a moderately heavy cruiser, combining solid construction with respectable speed potential.

Anecdotal evidence from sailors frequently describes the Cal 39 Mk II as a true racer-cruiser, capable of high performance on all points of sail, with a particular aptitude for upwind performance. Owners often note her high stability in proportion to her drag, an easily depowered sail plan, and the ability to effectively use sails across a wide wind range. These attributes contribute to a reputation for being a well-behaved vessel that is easy to manage and provides a dry and comfortable ride, embodying the core characteristics for which Cal Boats were known.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom dimensions for the Cal 39 Mk II are not readily available, the interior layout was designed for comfortable cruising. The standard plan for the Mk II typically features an L-shaped galley positioned opposite a large quarterberth. The main salon is configured to offer sleeping accommodations for up to five individuals, including two double berths, making it suitable for families or groups. The galley itself is designed to be compact yet efficient, optimizing space and workflow. Although detailed descriptions of finish quality vary by individual boat and owner care, Cal boats from this era were generally known for their solid and robust construction, suggesting a durable interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Cal boats, including the 39 Mk II, frequently praise their solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway. Many describe them as vessels that track well and remain very dry, attributes that contribute to their enduring popularity as both racer-cruisers and family cruising boats. When considering a Cal 39 Mk II, common maintenance considerations, as with many vessels of its age, can include checking for potential blister problems, common leaks, and areas of soft deck or cabin sole, as well as assessing the condition of rigging and hull-deck stresses. The strong community of Cal owners often shares insights and experiences, highlighting the lasting appeal and practicality of these classic yachts.