Northeast 39-2 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Northeast 39-2 entered production in 1986, emerging during a period when C&C Yachts was known for its innovative construction techniques and rakish, performance-driven designs. Designed by Robert W. Ball, who served as C&C's chief in-house designer from 1973 to 1991, the boat reflects the builder's commitment to "performance cruisers"—yachts designed to excel in racing while offering comfort for cruising. C&C Yachts pioneered balsa-cored fiberglass hulls for improved stiffness and reduced weight, a manufacturing ethos likely applied to models like the Northeast 39-2, which utilized solid fiberglass for its hull and deck construction Context. While information specifically detailing the design philosophy for the 39-2 is limited, its lineage within the C&C family suggests an emphasis on a responsive and capable sailing experience, a hallmark of Ball's designs. The Northeast 39-2 appears to be a distinct model or iteration, possibly succeeding or running concurrently with a similarly named "Northeast 39" that was produced between 1984 and 1987.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The C&C Northeast 39-2, with its fin keel and spade rudder, is designed for a blend of performance and control 1, Context. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 19.53 suggests a boat with good power in lighter winds, indicating it is likely responsive and can maintain speed when the breeze is moderate. A Displacement to Length ratio (Disp/LWL) of around 212.77 places it in a moderate weight class, leaning towards a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel rather than a heavy, traditional cruiser. This combination points to a sailboat capable of good speeds and agile handling.

However, detailed ballast specifications for the Northeast 39-2 are not available in the provided data, precluding a direct calculation of its Ballast to Displacement ratio, which typically indicates a boat's stiffness and ability to stand up to a breeze. Despite this, general descriptions characterize the Northeast 39-2 as a moderate-weight sailboat that performs well and is "reasonably stable / stiff". Its Capsize Ratio of 2.05, while close to the threshold often cited for offshore suitability (2.0 or less), positions it as a capable coastal cruiser. The Comfort Ratio of 23.38 further suggests a boat that offers a reasonably comfortable motion, balancing performance attributes with cruising amenities.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior layout details for the Northeast 39-2 are scarce, it is understood that C&C Yachts generally provided well-appointed and functional interiors in their models. Boats of this size and era from C&C typically featured a layout conducive to comfortable cruising. The general design ethos of C&C interiors prioritized efficient use of space, often with a V-berth forward, a main salon, a galley, and a head compartment. The use of materials would likely reflect the quality associated with C&C, combining fiberglass components with tasteful wood trim. For the related "Northeast 39," the interior was described as "nicely laid out and far roomier". The vessel is equipped with a water capacity of 60 gallons (227 liters), providing a reasonable supply for extended trips.