Ericson 39 B Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Ericson 39 B emerged from Ericson Yachts' Santa Ana, California plant during a period of significant growth and refinement for the builder. Ericson Yachts, founded in 1963, quickly established a reputation for durable hulls and superior quality fiberglass construction, largely due to its effective adoption of advanced techniques and its pivotal collaboration with Bruce King. King's designs, known for their balanced sailing characteristics and pleasing lines, became the hallmark of the Ericson brand. The Ericson 39 B is specifically noted as a cruising variant of the original Ericson 39, which was a well-regarded ocean racer.

Distinguished by its trunk cabin, the "B" model offered increased interior accommodations, tankage, and stowage compared to its flush-deck counterpart. While the Ericson 39 was renowned for its racing success, the 39 B was tailored for the cruising sailor, providing a more livable and practical layout below decks. Only about 20 units of the 39 B were built, making it a less common, but highly sought-after, version of the Ericson 39 series. The design philosophy behind the Ericson 39 B focused on creating a comfortable "vacation home layout" within a capable hull, suggesting a priority on liveability over outright racing performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ericson 39 B, with a reported sail area of 720 square feet and a displacement of 19,000 pounds, presents a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.20. This indicates a moderately powered cruiser, suggesting she will perform adequately in a range of conditions, without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavy winds.

Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio is an impressive 0.50, meaning half of the boat's total weight is in her ballast. This high ratio points to exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the Ericson 39 B to stand up well to a strong breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway.

With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 314.07, the Ericson 39 B falls into the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This weight contributes to her solid feel and seakindliness, making her a capable vessel for extended coastal cruising or offshore passages.

Owners generally describe the Ericson 39 as a "sweet sailing boat" that performs reasonably well, especially in winds between 10 and 15 knots and moderate seas. While not designed for modern racing speeds, she is praised for her balanced handling and overall sailing pleasure. A common anecdotal observation among owners, however, is that the Ericson 39 B can be challenging to steer in reverse under power, a characteristic sometimes attributed to the propeller or hull design.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ericson 39 B is configured for comfortable cruising, benefiting from the trunk cabin design which increases interior volume compared to the flush-decked Ericson 39. While specific maximum headroom is not detailed in the provided data, the design emphasizes generous accommodations. Typical layouts for Ericson 39 models, including the B variant, often feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert to berths, a galley, and a head. The additional volume in the "B" model allowed for greater tankage and stowage, which are crucial for extended voyages. Reviews and owner comments suggest that Ericson interiors of this era were known for their thoughtful design and solid finish quality, often incorporating wood trim and durable materials for a classic yacht aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Ericson 39 B for its solid construction and robust build quality, attributes often associated with Ericson Yachts. Many appreciate its comfortable motion in a seaway and its capability as a blue water cruiser. The high ballast-to-displacement ratio contributes to a stiff and stable ride, which owners find reassuring in varied conditions.

While the sailing characteristics are generally lauded, particularly its balance and ability to sail well in moderate conditions, a frequently mentioned characteristic among owners is the boat's tendency to handle poorly in reverse under power. This is a common point of discussion in owner forums, though many owners adapt to it. As with any boat of its vintage, recurring maintenance is expected, but owners often highlight the fundamental soundness of the Ericson hulls, suggesting that major structural issues are rare. The active online community for Ericson yachts, including dedicated forums, provides a valuable resource for current and prospective owners, offering insights into typical maintenance, upgrades, and shared experiences.