Carter 39 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Carter 39 commenced production in 1974 at Olympic Marine's bustling shipyard in Lavrio, Greece. While an exact end date for its production run is not widely documented, examples are noted from the mid-1970s and into the early 1980s, suggesting a sustained period of manufacturing. The design emerged from the drawing board of Dick Carter, a celebrated naval architect who gained renown for revolutionizing sailing in the late 1960s with his fast, race-winning designs. Carter's philosophy often focused on creating yachts that were not only quick but also capable and comfortable in varying sea conditions.

Olympic Marine, during the 1970s, was undergoing a period of significant growth and modernization, employing approximately 500 individuals and producing hundreds of yachts annually. Their manufacturing ethos emphasized robust construction, primarily utilizing fiberglass for hulls and decks. A key characteristic of Olympic Marine's early construction was the meticulous encapsulation of marine plywood structural elements within hand-rolled fiberglass, ensuring durability and strength. The Carter 39 was offered in at least two distinct versions: a flush-deck "Competition" variant, and an "Offshore" version featuring a trunk cabin, catering to different preferences for racing aesthetics versus interior volume.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Carter 39's design reflects a balance between performance and stability, characteristic of its designer's intent. With a displacement of 18,750 lbs and a waterline length of 30 feet, the boat has a displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of approximately 310. This places it firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, suggesting a solid and comfortable motion through the water rather than a lightweight, skittish feel.

Despite its substantial displacement, the Carter 39 boasts a generous sail plan with a total calculated sail area of 734.5 sq ft, yielding a sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/D) of around 179.8. This relatively high SA/D indicates good potential for performance in lighter air conditions, allowing the boat to maintain momentum when the wind is soft. The vessel's ballast-to-displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 39.2% (7,350 lbs of lead ballast in an 18,750 lb displacement) suggests good initial stability, allowing it to stand up to its canvas in stronger winds and contribute to a reassuringly stiff ride.

Anecdotal reports align with these metrics, describing the Carter 39 as a "fast sailing vessel" and a capable "sea boat." It is noted for offering "reassuring stability in all conditions" and "excellent light-air performance" due to its generous sail plan. Owners of Dick Carter designs frequently praise their "awesome handling" and robust build, highlighting the designer's ability to create vessels that perform well offshore. The fin keel and skeg-hung rudder further contribute to its directional stability and precise handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Carter 39 vary, online resources and general reviews suggest a traditional and functional arrangement typical of performance cruisers from the 1970s. The interior commonly featured joinery crafted from mahogany, a hardwood known for its water-repellent properties and resistance to decay, contributing to a warm and durable finish.

A standard layout would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, and a navigation station. Given its 39-foot length and 12.75-foot beam, the Carter 39 would offer reasonable space for extended cruising. Ventilation would typically be managed through deck hatches and portlights. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, a boat of this size from the era generally aimed for comfortable standing headroom in the main salon areas. The presence of an "Offshore" version with a trunk cabin implies that some layouts prioritized more spacious accommodations and internal volume over the sleek, flush-deck profile of the "Competition" model.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Carter-designed yachts, including the Carter 39, generally hold them in high regard, often praising the solid construction and excellent sailing characteristics. Many note that Dick Carter was adept at designing fast and capable offshore boats. While detailed "common problems" are not extensively documented in broad owner forums for this specific model, the general sentiment suggests that well-maintained Carter 39s offer a rewarding ownership experience. One owner considering a purchase highlighted the general lack of extensive information, but another user of a smaller Carter model affirmed that "Dick Carter knows how to design" and praised the "super" build quality. This points to a reputation for robust construction and reliable performance, with an emphasis on the boat's enduring quality when properly cared for over the years.