Najad 391 Information, Review, Specs

The Najad 391 emerged from a rich tradition of Swedish boat building on the island of Orust, where Najad Yachts was founded in 1967. The builder's ethos, established by Berndt Arvidsson and Thorwald Karlsson, emphasized safety, comfort, and meticulous craftsmanship. The 391 model, designed by Thorwald Karlsson himself, benefited from Najad's dedication to quality and robust design, drawing upon the company's reputation for creating luxury bluewater cruisers.

Produced between 1995 and 2003, the Najad 391 was an evolution of earlier successful models like the Najad 390, featuring an improved hull, keel, and rudder design. This refinement aimed to enhance its sailing characteristics and seaworthiness. While a standard fin keel was offered, the 391 was also available with a shallower draft keel of 1.69 meters (5.5 feet), providing versatility for different cruising grounds. The design philosophy prioritized structural integrity, ensuring the yacht could withstand challenging weather conditions while offering a comfortable motion at sea.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Najad 391 is characterized as a moderate displacement sailboat, known for its stability and capable performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.9, the Najad 391 offers a balanced performance profile, suggesting it can perform adequately in varying wind conditions, though it is not designed as a light-air racer. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.42 indicates a stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up well to strong winds and providing a secure feel on the water. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 271 places it firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, which contributes to its comfortable motion in a seaway.

Anecdotal evidence and reviews highlight the Najad 391's excellent seaworthiness and good handling characteristics. Owners and reviewers often praise its ability to perform safely and comfortably in rough weather. The improved keel and rudder design contribute to precise handling, with the boat capable of turning within its own length. It is well-balanced, making it suitable for both weekend excursions and extensive offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Najad 391 reflects Najad's commitment to meticulously crafted and high-quality finishes, typically featuring select mahogany trim. With a maximum headroom of 6.33 feet, the interior feels spacious and comfortable. The layout is designed to be practical both at sea and in the harbor, catering to a sailing couple or a family.

A common arrangement includes a large owner's cabin located aft, offering substantial berths, ample storage, and seating. There is typically also a guest cabin forward. The main saloon is designed for comfort, featuring a well-appointed galley with a two-burner stove, oven, and refrigerator. The yacht often includes two heads, one in the forward cabin and another in the aft section, ensuring privacy and convenience. The deck features a large, uncluttered, flush non-slip teak surface, with curved teak ribs that follow the hull's sheer, contributing to both aesthetics and safety. An integrated bathing platform in the transom adds to the boat's functionality and accessibility. While most 391s share a similar high standard of interior, at least one vessel was reportedly equipped with a new interior design found in later Najad models, indicating potential variations in fit and finish across the production run.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Najad 391 for its solid construction, often referring to it as an "absolute must" for those seeking a well-built yacht. The robust build quality and thoughtful design make it a popular choice for serious bluewater cruising, with owners appreciating its ability to handle challenging conditions with confidence. Many consider the 391 a "dream boat" for extensive sailing and comfortable living aboard. The attention to detail in the interior and the overall craftsmanship are frequently highlighted as significant strengths. Owners also value the boat's stability and comfortable motion in a seaway, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable passage maker.

While specific common problems are not widely detailed in general reviews, owners participating in forums may discuss typical maintenance items for boats of this vintage. The strong sense of community among Najad owners often facilitates sharing insights on upkeep and improvements. Overall, the Najad 391 is cherished for its enduring quality and suitability for both short trips and long-distance voyages.