Scanner 399 DS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Scanner 399 DS began its production run in 1996, with some variants like the Masthead and Partial Rig versions being notably presented in 1998. It was conceived by Nils-Eric Olofsson, a designer with a long tradition in boat building who founded Scanyacht AB in 1987. The design philosophy of Scanyacht, prominent during this era, focused on creating yachts that offer a harmonious balance of speed, seaworthiness, and aesthetic appeal. A significant aspect of the 399 DS's creation is its foundation on the same successful hull as the earlier Scanner 391, demonstrating the builder's iterative refinement of proven designs. This continuity allowed Scanyacht to leverage an already well-regarded hull form while evolving the deck and interior to meet the demands of the emerging deck saloon trend. Scanyacht's consistent operation from Saltsjö-Duvnäs, Sweden, further underscores its enduring Swedish heritage and craftsmanship throughout the production of models like the 399 DS.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Scanner 399 DS is engineered to offer capable sailing performance, reflecting Scanyacht's reputation for producing yachts that "seglar bra, precis som alla Scanner båtar gör" (sails well, just like all Scanner boats do). With a displacement of 16,534 pounds and a waterline length of 32.15 feet, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 222 places it firmly in the moderate displacement cruiser category. This suggests a vessel that balances speed with a comfortable motion in a seaway, without being overly heavy or ultralight.

The boat's Ballast to Displacement ratio stands at a moderate 32% (5,291 lbs of lead ballast in a 16,534 lb displacement), indicating a reasonable degree of initial stability and stiffness that allows her to stand up to a breeze effectively, though perhaps not with the extreme stiffness of a dedicated offshore racer. Rigged as a masthead sloop, the Scanner 399 DS benefits from the inherent simplicity of this rig type, often making for easier handling and robust performance. While specific sail area figures for a precise Sail Area to Displacement ratio calculation are not readily available, the general consensus for Scanner yachts points to a design that ensures a lively yet controlled sailing experience, suitable for both leisurely cruising and more ambitious passages.

Accommodations and Layout

As a "DS" (Deck Saloon) model, the Scanner 399 DS is designed to provide an interior that is exceptionally bright and offers improved visibility from the main living areas, a key advantage for comfortable cruising. While specific detailed interior reviews are scarce, the deck saloon configuration inherently allows for larger windows, flooding the saloon with natural light and providing occupants with a better connection to the outside environment. This design choice aligns with Scanyacht's focus on blending performance with comfort and offering a "higher standard equipment" compared to earlier models like the 391. Reports from sales listings indicate a typical layout featuring two cabins and two heads, a practical arrangement for families or two couples cruising together. The emphasis on higher standard equipment suggests a well-appointed interior with thoughtful use of materials and finishes, consistent with Swedish yacht building traditions. The generous water capacity of 84 gallons (318 liters) further supports its capabilities as a comfortable cruiser for extended periods aboard.