Amel Sharki 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Sharki 39 is almost exclusively encountered as a ketch, a sail plan that Henri Amel championed for its ability to break the total sail area into smaller, more manageable pieces. This configuration is particularly effective for short-handed crews, allowing for a balanced "jib and jigger" setup in heavy weather. With a displacement of approximately 8,500 kg (18,739 lbs) and a relatively moderate sail area, the Sharki is not a light-air flyer; however, it excels once the breeze exceeds 12–15 knots.

The hull features a deep-chested sections and a long fin keel that transitions into a substantial skeg protecting the rudder. This geometry provides the Sharki with exceptional directional stability, a trait often praised in editorial retrospectives of the Amel range. Owners frequently report that the boat "tracks as if on rails," significantly reducing the workload on the autopilot or wind vane during long passages. While its motion in a seaway is somewhat stiffer than modern wide-stern designs, it avoids the pounding common in flatter-bottomed coastal cruisers. The inclusion of the proprietary Amel "C-Drive" or "U-Drive" system—an engine-mounted sail-drive-like leg—minimizes vibration and places the propeller in a position that offers excellent bite when maneuvering under power, though the lack of a traditional shaft log requires specific maintenance attention.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Sharki 39 is a masterclass in functional offshore design, characterized by the use of high-quality African mahogany and a layout that remains secure even when the boat is heeled. The standard configuration features a V-berth forward, followed by a spacious salon with a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard. A defining feature of the Sharki is its navigation station and galley placement; the galley is located in the passageway leading aft, providing a secure "braced" position for the cook while at sea.

The aft cabin is a private sanctuary, typically accessed through the cockpit or the aforementioned interior passageway. While it lacks the standing headroom of the larger Maramu models, it offers two comfortable berths and ample storage, making it ideal for an owner's cabin or a secure sea berth. Throughout the production run, variations were minor, primarily focused on the evolution of the deck layout and the transition from the early Volvo Penta powerplants to more modern configurations. The "Amel-style" faux-teak deck—a molded-in non-skid pattern—is a notable feature that avoids the maintenance and leaking issues associated with traditional screwed-down teak decks.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Sharki 39 is often overshadowed in literature by its larger sibling, the Super Maramu, it maintains a dedicated following among the "slow and steady" cruising community. It is frequently cited in French nautical journals like Voiles et Voiliers as a benchmark for used blue-water cruisers. The model has been a staple in the "Amel Cup" rallies and is a common sight in the logs of the Amel Club, which documents the global voyages of these vessels. Its reputation for durability has made it a favorite for "vloggers" and authors documenting low-budget but high-ambition circumnavigations.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Sharki 39 requires a nuanced understanding of its unique mechanical systems. Prospective buyers should focus their survey on the following high-signal areas:

• The Drive Leg: The Amel-specific transmission system is highly reliable but requires specialized seals and oil changes. Check for evidence of water intrusion in the drive oil or play in the lower propeller shaft.
• Encapsulated Keel Integrity: While the lead ballast is encapsulated in fiberglass (precluding keel bolt failure), any significant grounding can breach the laminate. Inspect the "stump" of the keel for osmotic blistering or structural cracking.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Many Sharkis still carry their original heavy-duty aluminum masts. Ensure the standing rigging has been replaced within the last decade, and inspect the chainplates, which are glassed into the hull structure, for any signs of weeping or rust streaks.
• Core Saturation: While Amel hulls are solid GRP, the decks are cored. Use a moisture meter around stanchion bases and the windlass mount to check for delamination or wet core, a common aging issue for 1980s builds.
• Original Wiring: The electrical systems on older Sharkis can be complex, often featuring a mix of 12V and 24V systems. Look for "rat's nest" wiring from previous owners and verify the integrity of the original Amel distribution panel.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Sharki 39 benefit from one of the most organized owner associations in the maritime world. The Amel Yacht Owners Group and the Amel Carbet (a French-based technical association) are the premier repositories for technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and DIY repair guides. These communities are vital for sourcing parts for the proprietary Amel systems that are no longer in production.

The Verdict

The Amel Sharki 39 is a "purpose-built" vessel that trades contemporary speed and interior volume for absolute confidence in the face of the open ocean. It is a connoisseur’s boat, best suited for those who value mechanical simplicity and structural robustness over modern luxuries.

Pros:

• Exceptional heavy-weather stability and tracking.
• Functional "at-sea" layout with a secure galley and nav station.
• Bulletproof construction with an encapsulated keel and skeg-hung rudder.
• Manageable sail plan for solo or couple sailors.

Cons:

• Relatively slow in light winds (less than 10 knots).
• Unique mechanical systems (C-Drive) require specialized knowledge.
• Aft cabin headroom is restricted compared to more modern 40-footers.
• Aesthetic design is dated, reflecting its late-1970s origins.