Landfall 39 (C&C) Information, Review, Specs

This 39-foot vessel quickly established a reputation as a "thorough-bred cruiser," emphasizing safety and comfort without compromising the sailing characteristics C&C was known for. Its center-cockpit configuration is a defining feature, allowing for a particularly accommodating interior, making it a valuable resource for those seeking a liveaboard or long-distance cruising yacht.

History and Design

The C&C Landfall 39 was in production from 1985 to 1989. During this era, C&C Yachts, founded in 1969 by a collective of designers and builders including George Cuthbertson and George Cassian, was navigating a challenging financial period, having consolidated its operations to the Niagara-on-the-Lake plant in Ontario. Despite these challenges, the company maintained its commitment to high-quality, innovative designs. The Landfall series, including the 39, represented C&C's deliberate foray into the dedicated cruising market, diverging slightly from their more performance-oriented race-cruiser heritage while still incorporating their signature design philosophy.

The design objective for the Landfall 39 was clear: to create a yacht specifically for the serious cruising sailor who desired comfort and safety for long passages. While Robert Perry is specifically credited alongside C&C Design for this model, C&C's in-house chief designer, Robert W. Ball, also played a significant role in shaping many of the company's vessels during this timeframe, 10]. The result was a yacht with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for offering a good balance of performance and control. Notably, the C&C Landfall 39 is distinct from the Taiwanese-built Landfall 39 (Amy) and should not be confused with it.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The C&C Landfall 39, with its displacement of 19,497 lbs and a waterline length of 31.0 feet, falls into the category of a medium-heavy cruiser. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 292 suggests a yacht designed for comfortable motion in a seaway rather than outright speed, indicating a stable and robust platform suitable for extended cruising. With a reported sail area of 667 sq ft, its sail area-to-displacement ratio of around 14.77 points to a vessel that will perform best in moderate to stronger winds, offering reliable progress without being overly tender. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.32, with 6,248 lbs of lead ballast, contributes to its stability, allowing it to stand up to a reasonable amount of canvas in varied conditions.

In terms of handling, owners and reviews often praise the Landfall 39 for its "remarkably responsive" nature and ease of maneuverability. It is described as balancing easily, which contributes to a comfortable and predictable ride, even in challenging conditions. These characteristics make it appealing to both seasoned sailors and those newer to cruising, providing a versatile and enjoyable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The defining feature of the C&C Landfall 39's interior is its center-cockpit deck layout, which ingeniously allows for a spacious and private aft cabin. This arrangement typically features a two-stateroom, two-head configuration, providing ample privacy and comfort for longer voyages or hosting guests.

Upon descending through the companionway, the interior reveals a thoughtfully arranged living space. The main saloon is generally described as spacious, incorporating comfortable settees that typically face each other or a substantial table. The joinery throughout the interior is often highlighted, with the quality of the teak cabinetry and sole frequently praised as outstanding. The use of white laminate accents often complements the varnished teak, contributing to a bright and warm ambiance. While specific headroom figures are not always cited, the overall impression is one of generous volume. The galley is typically well-appointed for a cruising boat, and the design prioritizes "tons of storage" throughout, a critical feature for long-term cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the C&C Landfall 39 generally hold their vessels in high regard, frequently commending their suitability for offshore cruising. Many describe the boat as "built plenty strong enough for offshore cruising," appreciating its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway. The center-cockpit layout is often cited as a major strength, providing a "near perfect interior plan for a cruiser" due to the excellent separation and privacy offered by the dual cabin arrangement. Owners also frequently note that the boat balances easily, contributing to a more relaxed and enjoyable sailing experience.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the C&C Landfall 39 may present certain common issues. While not exclusive to the Landfall 39, older C&C models have been known to occasionally experience deck coring issues, which potential buyers should be mindful of during surveys. Additionally, some owners have noted that the engine compartment, located near the aft cabin, may lack sufficient soundproofing in original configurations. Despite these points, the C&C Landfall 39 continues to be a sought-after vessel on the used market, a testament to its enduring quality and the passion it inspires within its dedicated owner community.