Sun Odyssey 39 I (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The Sun Odyssey 39i was introduced in 2005, continuing Jeanneau's tradition of innovation in sailboat manufacturing. Its production run lasted until 2010. During this era, Jeanneau, having been acquired by Groupe Beneteau in 1995, had solidified its position as a global leader, known for embracing new technologies and fostering collaborations with distinguished naval architects. The "i" in its name signifies the use of advanced resin infusion molding in its construction, a technique Jeanneau adopted early for its larger models. This process creates a reinforced composite, enhancing performance while also being more ecologically sound.

Marc Lombard, known for his designs inspired by race boats, aimed to create a cruiser that offered agile marine performance while maintaining liveable and comfortable interiors. The Sun Odyssey 39i was offered with various keel configurations to suit different sailing preferences and cruising grounds, including a deep fin keel (GTE - Grand Tourer Edition), a shallow draft option, and a specific performance keel. A "Performance" version was also available, featuring a taller mast, increased sail area, and a deeper keel for those prioritizing speed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sun Odyssey 39i is characterized by sleek hull lines and a sharp forefoot, contributing to its speed under sail. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.74, the boat is designed for moderate, balanced performance, suggesting it can handle a variety of wind conditions without being overly tender or underpowered. Its Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of around 166 places it firmly in the moderate displacement category, indicating a design optimized for good performance cruising without sacrificing comfort or stability.

While generally praised for its agile marine performance, particularly for coastal cruising, some owners have noted that the boat's generous freeboard and relatively lower Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.31 can lead to increased windage. This characteristic may make handling more challenging in very windy conditions, and some owners report that the boat tends to spin through a wider arc at anchor, which can be trying. Despite these nuances, its spade rudder contributes to responsive steering and overall maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 39i reflects Jeanneau's focus on creating "liveable boats" with clever layouts and comfortable amenities. The generous beam of just over 12.7 feet significantly contributes to its spacious interior, offering more volume than many yachts of similar length.

The interior reveals meticulous attention to detail, typically featuring comfortable cabins, a bright salon, and a well-equipped kitchenette. Headroom is generally ample, with even individuals up to 6 feet tall finding sufficient clearance. The boat was available in two or three-cabin configurations. The two-cabin layout is often favored by owners, as it provides significantly more storage space and features an enlarged head with a dedicated stall shower, enhancing comfort for longer cruises. The overall interior aesthetic combines a traditional style with a classical yet sleek atmosphere, making it a welcoming and functional living space at sea.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 39i generally express satisfaction with their vessels, particularly praising the spaciousness and practicality of the two-cabin version. The boat's solid construction and comfortable motion are frequently highlighted as strengths.

However, some recurring observations include challenges related to handling in strong winds due to significant windage, and a tendency for the boat to sail around more at anchor, which can be less comfortable in certain conditions. Potential buyers undertaking a survey have occasionally noted issues such as leaking holding tanks and maintenance items like overdue engine services, including the mixing elbow. It's also been suggested that issues with furlers and winches might arise if a boat has been left unused for extended periods. Despite these points, there are no widespread reports of critical structural problems, such as common keel bolt issues, with the 39i. The active owner community provides a valuable resource for sharing knowledge and support, underscoring the enduring appeal and community around this popular Jeanneau model.