Finngulf 391 Information, Review, Specs

Finngulf Yachts, established in Finland in 1981 by Stig Nordblad, quickly moved from a brokerage firm to a respected builder. The company's ethos, from its inception with the Finngulf 34, centered on creating high-performance sailing yachts using advanced fiberglass and foam core techniques, ensuring modern, durable, and lightweight construction. This commitment to quality and performance defined Finngulf's "FG Performance" philosophy, aiming to capture the "spirit and essence of each individual yacht." The Finngulf 391, originating from this tradition, reflects the brand's dedication to crafting yachts that blend seaworthiness, comfortable cruising, and robust build quality.

History and Design

The Finngulf 391 enjoyed a long and successful production run, with 109 units built between 1982 and 2005. Originally known as the Finngulf 39 and similar to the earlier Crown 39, the model underwent significant evolution during its manufacturing period. In 1990, a new and improved deck was introduced, along with modifications to the rig, keel, and rudder, demonstrating the builder's continuous refinement of the design. Later in its production, between 1999 and 2002, a specialized deckhouse saloon version, the FG 39/391 DH, was also offered, with three such yachts built. Håkan Södergren's design philosophy for the Finngulf 391 focused on creating a vessel with an easily driven hull form and a sophisticated rig and deck layout, which became hallmarks of its Scandinavian heritage and practical teak interior.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Finngulf 391 offers delightful sailing characteristics, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a responsive yet stable ride. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 20.26, the yacht is well-powered and capable of performing admirably in lighter air conditions. Her substantial ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.423 points to significant stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and maintain an upright position. The displacement to length ratio, at approximately 521.66, indicates a very robust and heavily built vessel for its 30.18-foot waterline length, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway and a solid feel underfoot, characteristic of a capable ocean passage maker. The fractional rig, combined with its carefully designed deck layout, ensures efficient sailing and ease of handling.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not always detailed, the Finngulf 391 is known for its practical and comfortable interior, often featuring a simple yet elegant teak finish. The typical layout includes a large, spacious saloon, often complemented by two double cabins. The forward cabin commonly features a split V-berth, while an aft cabin provides additional sleeping arrangements. Some configurations of the FG 391 were designed with a single aft cabin, which allowed for a particularly spacious aft toilet and a generous storage area within the cockpit. The meticulously handcrafted nature of Finngulf yachts ensures a high level of finish throughout the interior, appealing to those who value traditional quality in a cruising yacht. The deck layout is thoughtfully arranged for efficient sailing, with ample storage space in the cockpit, further enhancing its cruising credentials.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Finngulf yachts consistently praise their solid construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and enduring quality, fostering a loyal following for the brand. The Finngulf 391, in particular, has garnered acclaim for its reliability and the sustained performance it offers over many years. The longevity of ownership, with some boats being meticulously maintained by their first owners for decades, speaks to the inherent quality and lasting appeal of the design. Owners frequently highlight the boat's excellent sea-keeping abilities and robust build, making it a trusted companion for both extended voyages and enjoyable weekends on the water.