Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster Information, Review, Specs

The Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster's production spanned from 1981 to 1984, with approximately 57 to 60 hulls built during this period. Vince Lazzara, a seasoned pioneer in fiberglass boat construction and co-founder of Gulfstar Yachts, conceived the 39 Sailmaster with a clear philosophy: to balance sailing performance with practical liveability. This design reflected Gulfstar's evolving ethos, which moved towards a more "balanced approach" in construction and performance compared to some earlier models.

The vessel's construction is noted for its strength and quality, featuring fiberglass and polyester laminates for both the hull and deck, with balsa-cored topsides. A distinctive design feature is its raised saloon, which contributes to its profile and interior volume. Throughout its production run, a notable variation emerged with the MkII version, introduced around 1982, which added a quarter berth aft, enhancing its accommodation options. Furthermore, the Gulfstar 40, introduced around 1984, was based on the identical hull but configured with a center cockpit, primarily intended for the charter market.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat, designed for comfortable cruising rather than outright racing. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of 15.43 suggests it is slightly underpowered for spirited performance in lighter airs, though it can generally carry its full complement of sails in winds up to about 20 knots before requiring a reef. Owners often note that while it sails well, it may not point exceptionally high upwind and is not particularly fast, with its best point of sail being a broad reach.

Despite this, its Ballast to Displacement ratio of 43.16% is considered impressive, indicating a very stable and stiff vessel with good righting capabilities. This translates to a comfortable motion in a seaway, allowing the boat to stand up to more wind. With a Displacement to Length ratio of 248.92, it falls into the category of a more traditional, heavier cruiser rather than a light, performance-oriented design, reinforcing its solid, stable feel on the water. The boat is generally praised for its easy sailhandling and overall comfortable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster is notable for its spaciousness and the quality of its finish. The raised saloon is a prominent feature, contributing to a sense of openness and potentially generous headroom, although specific maximum headroom figures are not provided. When introduced, the single-stateroom layout was considered somewhat controversial, as many aft-cockpit sailboats of the era featured multiple sleeping cabins.

The typical arrangement features a forward double V-berth, often complemented by varnished teak bulkheads. The galley is typically situated forward, contributing to the single-stateroom or galley-forward description. While early MkI versions might have featured deep cockpit lockers in lieu of an aft quarter berth, the MkII version, introduced in 1982, incorporated a quarter berth aft. Owners frequently praise the "flawless glasswork, gorgeous teak appointments, and high quality hardware" found throughout the interior, with some boats featuring custom teak interiors that remain in excellent condition. Storage is generally ample, with quarter berths often repurposed as valuable garage-like storage spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster for its solid, "overbuilt" construction, which contributes to a feeling of security and a comfortable motion even in challenging sea states. Its reputation as a comfortable, capable cruising boat is a recurring theme among those who own or have sailed her. Many appreciate its easy handling characteristics, making it a pleasant boat to sail.

However, common issues noted by owners typically revolve around maintenance. The most frequently cited complaint is leaks around the "doghouse," referring to the raised saloon windows, which often require re-bedding. Potential buyers are also advised to check for leaks around the rudder post and to inspect the Perkins 108 diesel engine for common rear seal leaks, as well as checking the V-drive for oil leaks. While generally sailing well, some owners mention that the boat is not particularly fast and does not point well upwind. Despite these common maintenance points, the enduring presence of many Gulfstar 39 Sailmasters on the water decades after their construction attests to their lasting appeal and fundamental soundness.