Sydney 39 CR Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Sydney 39 CR lies in Sydney Yachts' commitment to evolving their successful designs to meet broader market demands. Starting production in 2005, the 39 CR shares its robust fiberglass hull construction and lines with the highly successful Sydney 38, a testament to the builder's focus on competitive one-design racing and strong performance. However, the 39 CR was conceived to offer more, specifically targeting sailors who appreciated the 38's speed but desired enhanced cockpit seating and a more refined cruiser/racer interior fit-out. This vision aligned perfectly with Sydney Yachts' established ethos of producing fast, exciting, and easy-to-sail yachts that struck a balance between grand-prix racing and comfortable amenities. The design modifications, which included a different deck layout and a more comfortable interior compared to the Sydney 38, also incorporated a bowsprit, which simplified handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sydney 39 CR is engineered for spirited performance, evidenced by its carefully balanced design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 23.5, she boasts a powerful sail plan, indicating excellent performance, particularly in lighter air. Her Displacement to Length ratio of around 140.2 classifies her as a light, performance-oriented vessel, suggesting agility and a keen ability to get up to speed. While the Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 30.9% might seem moderate, it is complemented by a deep 8.69-foot bulb keel, contributing to good stability and allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze.

Anecdotal reports confirm these interpretations, describing the Sydney 39 CR as "very stable and effortlessly fast," handling well in diverse conditions. Sailors find her easy to steer, largely due to the large composite wheel, and appreciate the thoughtful deck layout that facilitates ease of movement. The addition of a bowsprit, compared to its predecessor, further enhances handling, making the boat more manageable. The design ensures it is very IRC competitive, solidifying its standing as a formidable contender on the racecourse while maintaining an enjoyable sailing experience for cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Sydney 39 CR prioritizes sailing performance, it does so without sacrificing interior comfort, distinguishing itself significantly from its racing-focused sibling, the Sydney 38. The interior of the 39 CR was a major point of differentiation, with substantial effort put into its design to enhance live-aboard appeal. The layout is described as sleek, contemporary, and uncluttered, reflecting an understated elegance.

Typical interior arrangements found in the Sydney 39 CR include a single head located forward of the mast. Further forward, a V-berth provides a comfortable sleeping area. Aft, the yacht commonly features an owners' cabin to starboard, complete with a double bed and a hanging locker, alongside additional storage. The involvement of an interior designer in the development of the 39 CR's interior highlights the deliberate focus on creating a comfortable and well-appointed living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sydney 39 CR frequently commend its unique blend of performance and comfort, often referring to it as a "lifetime boat." While generally considered a higher-end option, its perceived value stems from its distinct combination of race-winning capabilities and impressive live-aboard amenities. The robust construction and the yacht's ability to seamlessly transition between competitive racing and comfortable cruising are often cited as key strengths. There are no widely reported common problems or recurring design flaws associated with the Sydney 39 CR, suggesting a generally positive ownership experience.