Fast Passage 39 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Fast Passage 39 dates back to 1976, with its production run extending through 1985. William Garden designed the Fast Passage 39 to be a "modern Bolero," aiming to create a stock production boat that adeptly combined performance with exceptional seakeeping abilities for offshore voyaging. Philbrook's Boatyard, the initial builder, was known for its meticulous craftsmanship and intricate interior wood joinery, and shipyard-completed Fast Passage 39s reflected this commitment to quality., 3, 4]

During its production, Philbrook's built approximately 40 units, with some available as kits for owner finishing. The molds were later acquired by Tollycraft Corp., which is reported to have built an additional nine boats after 1982. Due to the availability of kits and varying finishing standards, a wide variety of rigs, engines, equipment, and interior appointments can be found among the Fast Passage 39s still sailing today, necessitating careful inspection for potential buyers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Fast Passage 39's design ratios underscore its identity as a capable offshore cruiser. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.8, she is moderately powered, suggesting a balanced performance in varying wind conditions, performing well in light air but not optimized solely for it. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.36 indicates a good degree of stability and stiffness, enabling her to stand up to a strong breeze and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio, calculated at roughly 249, places her in the heavier cruiser category, affirming her solid, sea-kindly nature, often drawing comparisons to other legendary cruisers like the Valiant 40.

Anecdotal accounts and reviews consistently praise the Fast Passage 39 as an "excellent all-around sea boat" with good seakeeping characteristics. Her skeg-hung rudder contributes to excellent tracking, a desirable trait for long passages. While generally well-behaved, some reports suggest that the boat might exhibit significant leeway when heeled beyond 20 degrees, making timely reefing a standard practice for optimal performance.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data is not consistently available, the Fast Passage 39's interior is generally well-regarded for its traditional, robust layout suitable for extended cruising. The companionway is often offset, leading into an interior that frequently features a traditional U-shaped galley. The design typically includes a private cabin, often found on the port side, which offers ample storage and serves as a comfortable owner's stateroom. Below the cockpit, dedicated equipment space houses the steering system, autopilot components, and refrigeration units, centralizing systems and maximizing living areas.

The finishing quality can vary, particularly between factory-completed and owner-finished vessels. However, many Fast Passage 39s boast intricate wood joinery, with some featuring elegant cherry and ash interiors, reflecting the high standards of Philbrook's Boatyard., 12] Owners typically find the accommodations practical and comfortable, with good provision for storage, essential for long-term liveaboard or extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Fast Passage 39 consistently laud its solid construction and proven cruising pedigree, affirming its reputation as a true blue water cruiser. Many appreciate its comfortable motion offshore and its ability to handle demanding conditions with confidence. The boat's overall seakeeping and sailing performance are frequently cited as strong points, making it a reliable choice for serious voyaging.

However, common maintenance points and weaknesses have emerged over time. A frequently noted issue among owners is the potential for delamination in the original rudders and deck structures, with the factory rudders sometimes not being as robust as desired. Additionally, some of the original auxiliary engine systems might be considered underpowered by modern standards, leading some owners to undertake engine upgrades for improved performance. As with many older vessels, especially those that were owner-finished, issues such as leaky deck fittings may arise, requiring attention and re-bedding over time.