Westsail 39 Information, Review, Specs

The Westsail 39 began its production run in 1979, coinciding with the challenging period when Westsail Inc. was nearing bankruptcy. Following Westsail's difficulties, the molds for the 39-foot design were acquired by P & M Worldwide, who initially offered kits and then commissioned the construction of two boats in Taiwan. The molds subsequently changed hands again, leading to production under different names, including the WESTSAIL 11.8, FAIR WEATHER 39, FAIR WEATHER MARINER 39, and MARINER 39. Ultimately, it is believed that around 30 vessels of this design were completed in total, with 13 specifically bearing the Westsail 39 designation. Down East Yachts Inc., a builder committed to "solidly built cruiser type" boats and known for producing full-keeled, offshore-capable vessels, also played a role in the continuation of Westsail's legacy by building or completing some of these designs. Robert Perry's design philosophy for the Westsail 39 aligns with the emphasis on seaworthiness and stability, creating a vessel intended for serious cruising.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westsail 39's design ratios provide insight into its sailing characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.33, the Westsail 39 falls on the lower end of the moderate range, suggesting she is capable in light air but is not optimized for high-performance racing. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio is a notable 43.75%, indicating a high degree of stiffness and stability, which allows her to stand up well to strong winds and contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 250 categorizes her as a moderate to heavy displacement vessel, reinforcing her identity as a solid, capable cruiser rather than a light-displacement speedster. Owners have reported that the Westsail 39 sails well as a sloop and can achieve a surprisingly good upwind performance, with some claiming the ability to pinch up to 30 degrees apparent wind, a commendable feat for a boat of her type.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed for comfortable offshore living, the Westsail 39 features an interior layout noted for its comfort and livability. While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented, the design generally provides ample space below for extended cruising. The typical interior arrangement includes a V-berth forward, a main salon often featuring settees and a table, a functional galley, and a navigation station. Some early iterations of the interior included a cut-out starboard bulkhead with a tile-covered shelf, which owners noted as a potential weak point. Material choices often leaned towards traditional marine finishes, providing a warm and robust interior environment suitable for offshore passages. Storage is typically generous, a crucial aspect for long-distance voyaging.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westsail 39 frequently commend the boat's solid construction and its ability to handle challenging conditions with confidence, a hallmark of the Westsail brand. Anecdotal evidence from owner forums and discussions highlights the vessel's dependable performance as a cruising platform. While generally praised for its robust build, some owners have noted specific maintenance items such as the need to replace steering cables over time. The community of Westsail owners, including those with the 39 and its variants, remains active, sharing insights and support, which speaks to the enduring appeal and functionality of these classic cruisers.