Grand Soleil 39 (Jezequel) Information, Review, Specs

The Grand Soleil 39 emerged from Cantiere del Pardo's commitment to Italian design excellence and robust performance, a philosophy established by Giuseppe Giuliani Ricci when the shipyard commenced operations in 1973. During the era of the Grand Soleil 39's production, Cantiere del Pardo was solidifying its reputation for crafting "luxury performance sailing & cruising yachts" and "lightweight, sporty and extremely elegant performance cruisers." Alain Jezequel, the esteemed designer behind the GS39, aimed to create a yacht specifically "for those who really love to sail". His designs proved highly successful, with over 200 units of the Grand Soleil 39 built during its production run, underscoring its market appeal. The model was offered in both a standard rig and a tall rig version, providing options for varying sailing preferences and conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 41 feet and a waterline length of 32.33 feet, the Grand Soleil 39 is characterized by its fin keel and spade rudder, indicative of a design focused on performance. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.34 suggests a boat that, while capable, leans more towards comfortable cruising rather than being an out-and-out light-air flyer, offering a balanced performance profile. The impressive Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 41% points to a stiff and stable yacht, capable of standing up to a breeze and providing a secure motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 241.7 places it in the mid-range of cruiser weight classes, suggesting a robust build that can handle offshore conditions effectively.

Anecdotal evidence frequently praises the Grand Soleil 39 for its high performance, describing it as "nifty, charming and fast". Reviewers note its low wetted surface hull, which was optimized for performance under racing handicaps such as ORC. It is often regarded as an "easily handled performance cruiser," making it appealing to a wide range of sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data is not consistently available, the Grand Soleil 39 is known for its comfortable and well-appointed interior, offering substantial volume for a boat of its size. The interior layout typically features a notable arrangement with a master cabin located aft, accompanied by a second cabin that often includes overlapping bunks. The overall finish quality is described as solid and rich in detail, reflecting the builder's reputation for using high-quality materials. Like many cruisers of its era, the layout would generally include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a functional galley, and a marine head, all designed to provide ample storage and ventilation for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold the Grand Soleil 39 in high regard, contributing to its reputation as a "superboat" and earning it the affectionate moniker "iconic 'Spaghetti Swan'". While extensive detailed owner reviews discussing common problems are not widely published, the general sentiment indicates a high level of satisfaction, with some owners reporting "no major complaints". The enduring popularity of the Grand Soleil 39 underscores its success in delivering a vessel that is both aesthetically pleasing and capable on the water, appealing to those who value Italian design and a rewarding sailing experience.