Irwin 39 Citation Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Irwin 39 Citation began production in 1979, carrying forward the legacy of Irwin Yachts' consistent use of fiberglass construction since the company's inception in 1966. Ted Irwin, a designer known for his diverse portfolio, aimed to create boats that appealed to a broad spectrum of sailors, from those seeking outright racing performance to those prioritizing comfort for extended cruising. The Citation series, including the 39, reflects this dual focus, designed to offer competitive sailing characteristics without sacrificing interior volume and amenities. While the exact end year of the 39 Citation's production is not definitively documented, examples from the early 1980s are commonly found.

A significant design variation for the Irwin 39 Citation involved its keel configuration. While a fin keel version provided a draft of 6.25 feet, optimizing upwind performance, a shoal draft fixed keel, drawing 4.3 feet, was also available. Additionally, some models featured a keel/centerboard option, allowing for a minimum draft of 4.3 feet with the board up and a deeper draft of 9.5 feet with the board extended, offering versatility for both shallow water access and enhanced performance offshore.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 39 Citation, with its calculated performance ratios, presents itself as a capable sailboat. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.61 suggests good performance in lighter air conditions, allowing the boat to move efficiently even when winds are modest. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.385 indicates a decent level of stiffness, enabling the boat to stand up well to a breeze and providing a stable platform. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 248.9, the 39 Citation falls into the category of a moderately heavy cruiser-racer, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway combined with a respectable turn of speed. Owners have noted the boat's relatively agile nature, suggesting it handles well on the water. Its design was intended to offer a good balance for those interested in both cruising and occasional racing, with some reporting PHRF ratings around 126, indicative of its potential on the racecourse.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite the primary data being limited on interior specifics, the Irwin 39 Citation was designed with a focus on livability and comfort, aligning with Ted Irwin's broader philosophy for cruising yachts. The boat typically features generous headroom, with reported measurements up to 6 feet 4 inches, contributing to a spacious feel below deck. Interior layouts generally include a V-berth forward, a main salon often equipped with settees that convert to berths, a galley, and a navigation station. Many examples showcase traditional craftsmanship with all teak joinery, contributing to a warm and classic yacht interior. The layout is often praised for its practicality, with design elements such as the companionway steps that are integrated into the living space. While specific details can vary by individual vessel, the emphasis was on providing ample storage and comfortable living areas for extended periods on board.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Irwin 39 Citations often highlight the boat's robust fiberglass construction and its suitability as a cruiser-racer. Many appreciate its manageable size, noting that it can be handled comfortably by one or two people. The enduring appeal of Irwin boats, including the 39 Citation, often stems from their ability to provide comfort and capability at an accessible price point in the used boat market.

However, some common points of discussion among owners revolve around the original build quality, with a recurring sentiment that Irwin boats were, at times, mass-produced and may exhibit certain manufacturing issues. Specific concerns sometimes include the general reputation for "chopper gun" fiberglass application in some areas, rather than entirely hand-laid techniques. A frequently mentioned challenge is the tendency for original deck-to-hull joints to develop leaks, which can be difficult and costly to rectify. Additionally, as with many boats of its vintage, the electrical systems may require updating to meet modern safety standards and operational needs. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the active online community of Irwin owners underscores the lasting practicality and appeal of these vessels.