Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Allegro 39 are defined by its high displacement and traditional underwater profile. With a substantial displacement-to-length ratio, the boat is not a light-air performer; however, it comes into its own when the wind exceeds 15 knots. The long keel provides exceptional directional stability, allowing the vessel to track straight for long periods with minimal helm correction—a trait highly valued by solo sailors and long-distance cruisers.
Handling is described by owners as "deliberate." The heavy ballast ensures a high righting moment and a comfortable, predictable motion in a seaway, reducing crew fatigue. However, the trade-off for this stability is felt in tight quarters. Like many full-keeled boats with a canoe stern, the Allegro 39 can be challenging to maneuver in reverse, as the prop wash does not immediately hit the rudder. While it may not point as high as modern performance cruisers, its ability to maintain speed through a chop and its "dry" ride due to the flared bow sections make it a formidable offshore passage-maker.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The Allegro 39’s interior is a testament to Swedish craftsmanship, typically finished in high-quality mahogany or teak. Because many of these vessels were sold as high-quality kits or finished by boutique yards like AC-Varv, interior layouts can vary slightly, though most follow a classic offshore arrangement. The flagship's nearly 40-foot length allows for a degree of luxury not found in the smaller 27 or 33 models, including a proper dedicated navigation station and a spacious galley designed for use at sea.
The main salon usually features deep U-shaped settees that provide excellent security while healing. The "Koster" hull shape, which tapers at both ends, does impose some limitations on the aft cabin volume compared to modern wide-transom designs. However, Norlin compensated for this by utilizing the midships beam effectively. Sibling models, such as the Allegro 33, offer a similar aesthetic but lack the standing headroom and storage capacity that make the 39 a true live-aboard candidate. The 39 often features a large forward V-berth and a more sophisticated head arrangement, sometimes including a separate shower stall—a rarity in traditional double-enders of this era.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach an Allegro 39 with the understanding that these are aging offshore vessels. The following areas require specific scrutiny:
- Teak Deck Condition: Many Allegro 39s were delivered with thick teak decks. Over decades, the screws and bedding compounds can fail, leading to moisture ingress into the balsa or foam core. Inspect for soft spots and "weeping" from the interior headliner.
- Chainplates and Rigging: Given their blue-water pedigree, many 39s have seen significant offshore miles. The stainless steel chainplates are robust but should be inspected for crevice corrosion, especially where they pass through the deck.
- Engine Access and Maintenance: While the engine rooms are generally well-insulated, the deep bilge and the placement of the engine can make certain maintenance tasks difficult. Check for signs of oil in the deep bilge, which can be hard to clean.
- Osmotic Blistering: While the Allegro hulls are known for being heavily "over-built," boats from the 1980s are susceptible to osmosis. A professional moisture meter reading of the hull below the waterline is essential.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Allegroklubben. This association maintains an archive of original drawings, trim tips, and a registry of hulls. Because the Allegro 39 shares much of its design DNA with the smaller 27 and 33, the broader "Koster" sailing community in Scandinavia provides a wealth of shared knowledge regarding sail plans and hardware upgrades.
The Verdict
The Allegro 39 is a "sailor's boat" in the most traditional sense. It eschews modern trends of wide sterns and flat bottoms in favor of ultimate seaworthiness and a gentle motion. While it may feel heavy in light winds and cumbersome in a modern marina, it offers a level of security and durability that few contemporary yachts can match.
Pros:
- Exceptional sea-kindliness and heavy-weather performance.
- High-quality Scandinavian joinery and build standards.
- Superb tracking and directional stability for long-distance cruising.
- Classic "Koster" aesthetics that remain timeless.
Cons:
- Difficult to maneuver in reverse due to the long keel and rudder configuration.
- Relatively slow in light air and underpowered compared to modern designs.
- Limited aft cabin space due to the traditional canoe stern.
- Maintenance-heavy if the original teak decks have not been replaced.
