Moody 39 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Moody 39 was in production for a relatively short period, from December 1975 to December 1978, with 82 hulls built during this time. Her design falls squarely within the era when Moody, guided by designers like Angus Primrose, was making a significant shift towards higher-volume production yachts. Primrose's philosophy for Moody designs often emphasized maximizing interior space and achieving good accommodation, a characteristic clearly evident in the 39. The builder, A. H. Moody & Sons, upheld a strong ethos of quality, durability, and craftsmanship, ensuring their vessels were built to handle challenging sea conditions with confidence. The Moody 39 features a solid fiberglass hull and a long keel, indicative of the company's commitment to robust construction and seaworthiness. No significant "Mark" variations (e.g., MkI, MkII) were noted for the Moody 39 during its production run, distinguishing it from other models in the Moody range.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 13.7, the Moody 39 is categorized as a conservative cruiser, suggesting she is not optimized for light wind performance but offers stability and control in a breeze. Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.366, provides reasonable stability, allowing her to stand up to a decent amount of wind. The displacement to length ratio of roughly 233 indicates a medium-heavy displacement vessel, which translates to a comfortable and steady motion through the water, especially in a seaway. While described as offering "excellent performance and maneuverability" for a sailboat of her type, owners have noted her tendencies in lighter winds. Her long keel contributes to excellent directional stability, making her a good tracker on a course.

Accommodations and Layout

The Moody 39 is particularly celebrated for her remarkably spacious and functional interior, often described as unsurpassed for a boat of her length. She typically features a center cockpit design, with a roomy saloon located forward, offering ample space for relaxation and dining. The design was focused on maximizing internal volume, providing a layout with generous storage throughout, a key feature for extended cruising or liveaboard situations. While specific details on materials and finishes would vary by individual boat and owner updates, Moody yachts of this era were generally known for their sturdy construction and practical, often wood-trimmed, interiors that prioritized durability and comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody 39 frequently commend her for exceptional interior space and comfort, making her a highly capable cruising platform. The solid construction, a hallmark of Moody yachts, is a consistent point of praise, contributing to a sense of security and a comfortable motion offshore. However, some owners have expressed concerns regarding her performance in very light winds, a common characteristic for boats with a lower sail area to displacement ratio. As with any vessel of her age, prospective owners should anticipate standard maintenance considerations, but the robust build quality generally translates to a resilient boat that has stood the test of time.