Northeast 39 Information, Review, Specs

The Northeast 39 emerged during a period of transition for C&C Yachts, yet it upheld the builder's established commitment to high-quality performance cruisers. Designed by Bob Ball, the yacht was conceived as an evolution of the successful C&C 41, aiming to optimize its blend of speed and liveability. C&C Yachts, formally established in 1969, built its formidable reputation on innovative construction techniques, including the pioneering use of balsa-cored hulls to enhance stiffness while reducing weight. While the for the Northeast 39 specifies "fiberglass_solid" for both hull and deck, C&C's broader history and owner discussions suggest cored construction was a hallmark of their designs during this era.

The production run of the Northeast 39, from 1984 to 1987, occurred as C&C was navigating significant financial challenges, including currency fluctuations and the departure of key original personnel. Despite these internal shifts, the company continued to develop new models, demonstrating its enduring design prowess. The Northeast 39 maintained C&C's characteristic rakish lines and emphasis on lightweight construction, qualities that contributed to its competitive edge on the racecourse. There is also mention of a "Northeast 39 Mk II", indicating minor variations or refinements were introduced during its limited production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Northeast 39 is recognized as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers good performance. Its design ratios underscore this balance between speed and stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.04, the Northeast 39 is indicative of a performance-oriented cruiser, capable of performing well in a range of wind conditions, though not an extreme light-air specialist.

Where the Northeast 39 truly stands out is in its exceptional stability, evidenced by a high ballast to displacement ratio (Ballast/Disp) of around 0.656. This ratio, significantly higher than many contemporary designs, points to a very stiff and stable vessel, well-equipped to stand up to strong winds and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 212.79 places it firmly in the performance cruiser category, suggesting a boat that offers a good turn of speed without sacrificing the volume typically found in heavier displacement cruisers.

Owners and reviewers often describe the Northeast 39 as a "truly dual-purpose race/cruise type of boat". Its fin keel with a spade rudder contributes to agile handling and responsiveness. However, some experienced sailors note that typical of designs from the IOR (International Offshore Rule) era, its large, powerful masthead rig and substantial headsails can make shorthanded sailing somewhat challenging. Despite this, the Northeast 39 has proven its mettle, with at least one recorded instance of a two-year cruise to the South Pacific, affirming its capabilities as an excellent offshore cruising boat.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications for the Northeast 39 are not extensively documented in available public data, the design was crafted to be "equally efficient for racing or long term cruising," suggesting a thoughtful and versatile layout. The interior benefits from the craftsmanship of Bruckmann carpenters, known for their estimable joinery skills, which would have contributed to a high-quality finish.

Specific interior features noted include an "expanded galley" and the presence of "pilot berths", which are often found in offshore-capable yachts, providing secure sleeping arrangements in rough seas. The boat is equipped with a generous freshwater capacity of 60 gallons (227 liters), supporting extended voyages. While the maximum headroom is not explicitly listed, the overall design philosophy of a comfortable performance cruiser implies adequate living space for a yacht of its size. The general C&C aesthetic of the era typically included warm wood finishes, combining functional design with a classic yacht ambiance.

Owner's Perspectives

The Northeast 39 has garnered a devoted following, achieving something of a "cult" status, particularly on the Northeastern seaboard. Owners consistently praise the yacht's sailing performance and robust construction. Many find that the boat handles exceptionally well, contributing to an enjoyable sailing experience. Its suitability for offshore cruising is also frequently highlighted, with owners using them for extended voyages.

While generally well-regarded for its solid build, a common topic of discussion among C&C owners, which may extend to the Northeast 39, pertains to potential issues with deck coring over time, sometimes requiring re-bedding of fittings. However, sources also indicate that the construction should be solid, and some owners report no such issues. Given C&C's historical use of cored construction, this is a point for potential buyers to investigate during survey, though the primary boat data indicates solid fiberglass for the Northeast 39's deck. Overall, the enduring activity of C&C owner communities and the continued presence of these yachts on the used market are testaments to their lasting quality and the passion they inspire.