Sun Charm 39 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Sun Charm 39 lies in Jeanneau's late 1980s commitment to producing capable and comfortable cruising yachts. First hitting the water in 1988, the model emerged during a period where Jeanneau, under various ownerships but maintaining its design ethos, continued its tradition of utilizing fiberglass construction, a technique they pioneered for full-production boats in the early 1960s. The Sun Charm 39 shares its fundamental hull design with the later Sun Fast 39 and Sun Odyssey 39, indicating a successful and adaptable platform that saw subsequent development and model name changes, sometimes with slight interior modifications. While the standard model featured a fin keel with a maximum draft of 6.42 feet, a shoal draft option of 4.67 feet was also available, offering greater versatility for different cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sun Charm 39 is characterized as a performance cruiser, capable of delivering a delightful sailing experience while prioritizing comfort and safety. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.75, she suggests good performance in lighter winds, being responsive and easily driven. Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.377, indicates a reasonably stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a fair amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 187 suggests a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel compared to heavier, more traditional cruisers, allowing for competitive speeds for her era. The yacht features a masthead sloop rig and a spade rudder, contributing to her maneuverability and responsiveness. Anecdotal evidence from owners often praises her good sail performance, construction quality, and comfortable cruising attributes. The deck layout is well-structured, with most sail lines led back to the cockpit, enhancing ease of handling.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data is limited in the provided specifications, the interior of the Jeanneau Sun Charm 39 is generally described as bright, airy, and well-laid out, offering true comfort and versatility. The interior is often finished with teak work, reflecting a classic marine aesthetic. A common configuration for the Sun Charm 39 is a three-cabin layout, which makes her particularly suitable for family cruising or accommodating guests on extended voyages. Reviews highlight a "great layout," suggesting practical and comfortable arrangements for a vessel of her size, consistent with Jeanneau's focus on creating "liveable boats" with clever layouts and comfortable amenities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Charm 39 frequently express satisfaction with their vessels, often highlighting their solid construction, good sail performance, and comfortable cruising capabilities. Many note that well-maintained examples of the Sun Charm 39 offer longevity and continue to provide pleasure for navigation. The boat is praised for its ability to handle various conditions, with some owners attesting to its seaworthiness even in challenging weather. Common sentiments revolve around the boat being a reliable and enjoyable cruiser, suitable for both coastal and offshore adventures.