Swan 39 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Swan 39 marked the beginning of Ron Holland's influential collaboration with Nautor's Swan, a partnership that brought a fresh perspective to the shipyard's already celebrated lineup. Nautor's Swan, under Pekka Koskenkyla's vision, had already established itself as a builder committed to producing high-quality, high-performance sailing yachts using modern materials like fiberglass, blending Finnish boat-building traditions with advanced design. G1, G8, G11 in builder article

The Swan 39 specifically embodied this ethos, designed from the outset as both an IOR racer and a capable cruiser. This dual ambition is evident in its lineage, being directly based on the successful IOR racer "IMP," a testament to its performance pedigree. The availability of distinct racing and cruising versions allowed owners to tailor the yacht to their primary use, whether it was competitive regattas or comfortable offshore passages. This flexibility, combined with Nautor's unwavering commitment to robust fiberglass construction and detailed finish, ensured the Swan 39 appealed to a discerning clientele seeking both speed and seaworthiness. G1, G5, G11 in builder article

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Swan 39’s design ratios paint a clear picture of a yacht built for capable performance and comfortable handling. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.68, the Swan 39 demonstrates a healthy sail plan, suggesting good performance across a range of wind conditions, particularly in lighter air, without being excessively overpowered in stronger breezes. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at a substantial 0.4389. This high ballast ratio, coupled with a deep 7.2-foot fin keel and spade rudder, indicates a very stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to a considerable amount of canvas and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 257.07 places the Swan 39 in the medium-heavy displacement category. This suggests a boat with a solid, powerful feel, well-suited for offshore cruising, offering good directional stability and a forgiving ride, rather than a skittish light-displacement racer. Reviews often highlight the Swan 39 as a "performance cruiser perfect for single or couple handling," praising its "timeless and classic design" that was "built for speed." This combination of robust stability and efficient sail plan contributes to its reputation as an affordable performance cruiser/racer with excellent handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on the interior layout are not extensively provided in structured data, the Swan 39 was designed to offer comfortable and functional accommodations befitting a performance cruiser of its era. Typical layouts feature an open-plan living space designed to accommodate up to eight persons, which was a common configuration for racer/cruisers of its size.

The interior joinery work is a hallmark of Nautor's Swan, characterized by attractive, varnished teak solid wood and veneers, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In the bow, a dedicated sail locker provides practical storage for racing or cruising sails. Ample light and ventilation are provided through deck hatches, ensuring a comfortable environment below deck even in warmer climates. The overall design prioritizes both liveability for extended cruising and practicality for racing demands, with robust wooden furnishings contributing to a cozy yet durable interior.