Allied 39 Information, Review, Specs

Built with the "over-engineered" philosophy for which Allied was famous, the hull is composed of heavy, hand-laid solid fiberglass. While many contemporaries were experimenting with core materials that eventually led to structural headaches, Allied’s commitment to solid laminates has allowed many 39s to remain in active service today. It is frequently discussed alongside its "stretched" sibling, the Allied XL-2 42, which utilized a very similar hull form and S&S pedigree but offered more interior volume and a longer waterline. The Allied 39 is often distinguished from the Allied Mistress 39—a center-cockpit ketch designed by Arthur Edmunds—by its sleek aft-cockpit profile and more performance-oriented underbody.

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Allied 39 exhibits the classic "S&S feel": a balanced helm, a predictable motion in a seaway, and a surprising ability to point high into the wind for a vessel of its displacement. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio that leans toward the heavy side of the spectrum, the boat is not a light-air flyer, but it excels when the breeze freshens to 15 knots or more. The hull features a modified fin keel and a skeg-protected rudder, a configuration that offers a superior compromise between the tracking stability of a full keel and the maneuverability of a modern fin keel.

Owners frequently report that the boat feels exceptionally stiff, a result of its generous ballast ratio and high initial stability. This makes it a comfortable platform for long-range passage making, as it resists excessive heeling and maintains momentum through chop. Whether rigged as a sloop or a ketch, the sail plan is manageable for a couple, though the ketch rig offers more versatility in heavy weather by allowing for the "jib and jigger" configuration. The tracking is helped significantly by the skeg, which also provides vital protection for the rudder during accidental groundings or encounters with debris.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Allied 39 reflects the craftsmanship of the Catskill factory, utilizing extensive teak joinery and a layout optimized for life at sea rather than maximum berth count. The standard configuration typically includes a traditional V-berth forward, followed by a head with a shower. The main salon features a U-shaped dinette or opposing settees, often with a pilot berth tucked above to provide a secure sleeping spot while underway.

Unlike the Allied Mistress 39, which prioritized cabin separation for families, the Allied 39's aft-cockpit layout focuses on a deep, secure cockpit and a galley located near the companionway for better ventilation and proximity to the helmsman. Variations in the interior often depend on the year of production; earlier models may feature more traditional "dark" wood interiors, while later hulls might incorporate more white laminate surfaces to brighten the living space. Headroom is generous for a boat of this vintage, typically accommodating sailors up to 6'3" in the main salon.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Allied 39 is a formidable blue-water vessel, age and the specific construction methods of the era necessitate a thorough inspection:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this period, the decks are balsa-cored. Decades of hardware installations can lead to moisture ingress if fittings were not properly re-bedded. Focus on areas around the chainplates and stanchion bases.
• Chainplate Inspection: The chainplates are robust but are known to suffer from crevice corrosion where they pass through the deck. Given the boat's offshore intentions, a full pull-and-inspect or replacement is often recommended for hulls that have not been updated.
• Osmotic Blistering: Allied hulls were generally well-built, but the resins used in the 1970s are susceptible to osmotic blistering. Prospective buyers should look for evidence of past "peels" or current hull saturation.
• Engine Access and Condition: Many 39s were originally powered by Westerbeke or Perkins diesels. While these are reliable engines, the tight engine compartments can make routine maintenance, like impeller changes or heat exchanger cleaning, difficult.
• Plumbing and Wiring: Original electrical panels and copper plumbing are often at the end of their functional lifespan. Most "voyage-ready" Allied 39s will have undergone a total refit of these systems.

Community & Resources

The Allied 39 benefits from a dedicated following of "Good Old Boat" enthusiasts. The Allied Boat Owners Group (found on various social platforms and independent forums) is the primary hub for technical data, archival brochures, and refit advice. While there is no longer a formal manufacturer association, the shared DNA between the Allied 39, the Seabreeze, and the Seawind means that technical knowledge is often transferable across the fleet.

The Verdict

The Allied 39 is a "sailor’s sailboat," designed by the masters at Sparkman & Stephens and built by a yard that valued structural integrity over mass-market appeal. It is an ideal choice for a solo sailor or couple looking for a proven offshore platform that offers better performance than a traditional full-keel cruiser without sacrificing the "heavy-metal" feel of a solid fiberglass hull.

Pros:

• Superior S&S design provides excellent balance and seaworthiness.
• Solid fiberglass hull construction avoids many of the core issues found in newer boats.
• Aesthetic appeal of a classic aft-cockpit cruiser with high-quality woodwork.
• Strong resale value among offshore cruising enthusiasts.

Cons:

• Aged systems (wiring, plumbing, engine) often require significant initial investment.
• The modified fin keel and skeg rudder, while great for performance, offer less protection than a true full keel for some cruisers.
• The balsa-cored deck is a common "weak link" requiring moisture testing.