Freedom 39 Pilot House Information, Review, Specs

The Freedom 39 Pilot House entered production in 1983. This model emerged from Freedom Yachts' core philosophy, championed by founder Gary Hoyt, of simplifying sailing through the innovative use of unstayed masts. The design brief for the 39 Pilot House was clear: to create a vessel that one or two people could handle without needing to go forward on deck, while also improving speed, aesthetics, and cockpit visibility. Ron Holland himself stated that "Simplicity is the prime goal" for his designs, a principle clearly evident in the Freedom 39 Pilot House.

The collaboration with Tillotson Pearson Inc. (TPI) ensured a reputation for high-quality fiberglass construction, a hallmark of Freedom Yachts during this era. Unlike many traditional pilothouse yachts that often sacrificed sailing performance for interior volume, the Freedom 39 Pilot House was specifically engineered to defy this stereotype, aiming for a legitimate and capable sailing experience. A key design choice was the free-standing schooner rig, which was particularly well-suited to accommodate the large pilothouse cabin. While a standard Freedom 39 (also known as the Freedom 39 Express) existed, the Pilot House version was distinguished by its unique schooner rig and elevated interior.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Freedom 39 Pilot House demonstrates a balanced approach to cruising performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.8, she is well-equipped to perform admirably in lighter air conditions, a characteristic appreciated by cruisers Calculated. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 277.8 places her firmly in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, suggesting a solid, comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a light, twitchy feel Calculated. The ballast to displacement ratio of 28.6% indicates a moderate level of initial stiffness, capable of standing up to a good breeze, though perhaps not as stiff as some dedicated offshore racers Calculated.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that the sailing performance of the Freedom 39 Pilot House is a "delight, especially in winds above about 12 knots". Her design prioritizes ease of handling, particularly for short-handed sailing, which is a significant advantage of the unstayed schooner rig. However, some owners note that traditional sailmakers may require specific knowledge to properly set and flatten sails on a free-standing rig. The boat features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, contributing to good directional stability and control.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Freedom 39 Pilot House is designed for comfortable living and extensive space, a direct result of the Tillotson-Pearson design team employing a full-size mock-up to maximize the use of every available inch. The pilot house configuration offers excellent protection from the elements and often includes an internal steering station. However, some owners have noted that visibility from this internal station might not be ideal for all situations, and the internal layout, while spacious, may not be considered optimal for arduous offshore passages.

Despite these minor considerations, the interior is praised for its "spacious interior layout for comfortable living". Accommodations typically feature ample locker and storage space, along with bunks extending up to 6 feet 6 inches in length. The design incorporates thoughtful touches such as a "special spiral staircase" and the use of "complimentary curves" throughout the cabin, suggesting a focus on aesthetic appeal and ergonomic flow. The hull is constructed of fiberglass, a material chosen for its durability and minimal maintenance requirements.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Freedom 39 Pilot House often commend its "unique design" and "impressive speed" for a pilothouse vessel. The "spacious interior" is a frequently cited strength, providing a comfortable living environment. The unstayed rig and fiberglass hull contribute to a reputation for lower maintenance compared to more complex traditional rigs. The ease of short-handed sailing is a consistent point of praise, aligning with the designers' original intent.

However, some owners have pointed out areas for consideration. Concerns have been raised regarding the seaworthiness and strength of the cabin trunk and large deck saloon windows, although this tends to be a general discussion point for pilothouse designs rather than a specific documented flaw. The internal steering station's visibility has been noted as less than perfect by some, and the overall interior layout, while comfortable, might not always be seen as ideal for extreme offshore cruising. Despite these observations, the Freedom 39 Pilot House retains a dedicated following among sailors who value its distinctive features and comfortable, easy-to-manage cruising capabilities.