Nauticat 39 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Nauticat 39 emerged during a pivotal period for Siltala Oy. Designed by Kaj Gustafson, the yacht was introduced in 1992, at a time when the shipyard sought to refine its offerings. The Nauticat 39 embodied a "new philosophy" for the builder, prioritizing "more area for sailing, more efficient hulls under sail and more efficient forms". This marked a deliberate shift towards enhancing sailing characteristics while retaining the comfort and protection inherent in Nauticat's pilothouse designs.

Siltala Yachts, the original builder, pioneered the use of fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP) in boat manufacturing from the late 1950s, establishing a reputation for sturdy and durable construction. This ethos was carried forward into the Nauticat 39's production, which features a solid fiberglass hull and a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, indicative of a design built for reliability and seaworthiness. While variations existed due to national safety regulations, there were no widely noted MkI or MkII distinctions in its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nauticat 39, designed as a fractional sloop, offers a blend of sailing capability and comfortable motorsailing characteristics. With a displacement of 16,900 pounds and a waterline length of 32.16 feet, her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio is approximately 227. This places her in the moderate-to-heavy displacement category, suggesting a capable cruiser that can handle various sea states with comfort, though she isn't intended as a light-air speedster.

Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at approximately 35.5% (6,000 lbs ballast out of 16,900 lbs displacement). While some designs favor higher percentages for ultimate stiffness, this ratio, combined with her robust build, indicates a stable and stiff vessel capable of standing up to a good breeze. Owners often describe the Nauticat 39 as having good sailing characteristics and feeling safe at sea, with her performance sometimes surprising those accustomed to more traditional motorsailers. Despite her displacement, she is noted for performing very well under engine power, contributing to her motorsailer versatility. While some anecdotal feedback exists, including one owner's somewhat prejudicial comment calling it an "absolute pig," the general consensus points to a boat that handles predictably and reliably for its design purpose. The exact sail area is not consistently reported across sources, preventing a precise calculation of her Sail Area to Displacement ratio; however, the design intent was to incorporate "more area for sailing" for improved efficiency under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Nauticat 39 is a hallmark of the brand's focus on livability and comfort, particularly distinguished by its pilothouse design. The boat features a spacious deck saloon and an integrated inner wheelhouse, offering excellent visibility and a protected steering position in all weather conditions. This arrangement allows for comfortable living regardless of external conditions, a key appeal for those planning extended voyages.

Below deck, the Nauticat 39 typically boasts a beautiful, handcrafted teak interior, indicative of the quality finish associated with the builder. The layout generally includes a comfortable V-berth forward, a head, a well-appointed salon, and a functional galley. While the pilothouse provides ample light and air to the upper levels, some reviews note that the lower interior spaces could potentially be darker and less airy than desired, a common characteristic in pilothouse designs. The boat is well-equipped for extended cruising, featuring a substantial fresh water capacity of approximately 110 US gallons (416 liters). Attention to detail is evident, though one review noted that the forecabin door on a specific boat was "just a little tight," highlighting minor fit and finish considerations.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nauticat 39 generally hold their vessels in high regard, often praising the robust build quality and the inherent safety and comfort offered by these pilothouse yachts. There is a strong sense of community among Nauticat owners, fostered by active online forums and groups where experiences and knowledge are shared, 10]. This collective ownership experience reinforces the idea of belonging to a "special family community".

While the boat is appreciated for its solid construction and seaworthiness, especially for long-distance cruising, some owners have mixed opinions on its pure sailing performance, reflecting its motorsailer heritage. However, the consensus leans towards its capability as a comfortable passage-maker that performs well both under sail and power. Common owner discussions often revolve around continuous updates and maintenance, indicating that these boats are actively used and well-cared for.