Andrews 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Andrews 39 is celebrated for its exceptional off-the-wind performance and its ability to plane in conditions where heavier displacement boats remain displacement-bound. According to design archives at Alan Andrews Yacht Design, the hull utilizes a fine entry to reduce drag and a relatively flat aft section that encourages early surfing. The boat’s handling is characterized by high responsiveness; it tracks cleanly with a balanced helm, provided the sail trim is actively managed.

With a high Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, the 39 is a "momentum boat" that requires a skilled hand to keep it in the groove during light-air upwind legs. However, once the wind reaches 15 knots and the sheets are eased, the boat transforms into a potent surfing machine. Owners frequently report that the vessel feels significantly smaller and more nimble than its nearly 40-foot length would suggest, largely due to the weight-saving construction techniques employed by Dencho Marine, which often included balsa or foam-core vacuum-bagging.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the Andrews 39 was born for the racecourse, its interior was designed to be functional for coastal cruising and offshore deliveries. The layout typically features a standard racer-cruiser arrangement: a modest V-berth forward, a central salon with longitudinal settees that double as sea berths, and a compact galley and navigation station flanking the companionway. Because Dencho Marine operated as a limited-production shop, interior finishes varied based on the original owner’s requirements. Some hulls feature a "stripped-out" minimalist racing interior with exposed carbon or glass surfaces, while others were finished with lightweight teak veneers and pressurized water systems for comfortable weekend voyaging.

Sibling models built on similar design logic include the Andrews 38 and the slightly larger Andrews 40. In some cases, the Andrews 39 shares a nearly identical hull mold with the 38, with the extra foot gained through a redesigned transom scoop or "sugar scoop" to improve water release and provide a more functional boarding area.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Andrews 39 has maintained a high profile in the Pacific racing circuit for decades. One of the most famous examples, the yacht It's OK, became a staple of the Southern California offshore scene, consistently appearing in the results of the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race. The model is frequently discussed in regional sailing publications like Latitude 38 and The Log, where it is often cited as the "gold standard" for PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) competitors looking for a boat that can win trophies without requiring the massive crew or budget of a 70-foot sled.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an Andrews 39 with the understanding that these boats were often sailed at 100% of their design limit.

• Deck and Hull Core: Since Dencho utilized cored construction to save weight, it is critical to use a moisture meter around stanchion bases, chainplates, and winches. Any signs of delamination or soft spots indicate a labor-intensive repair.
• Keel Attachment: Given the high righting moments and the potential for "groundings" during tactical racing, the keel floors and grid structure should be inspected for stress fractures or "smile" cracks at the hull-keel joint.
• Rigging Loads: The Andrews 39 utilizes a high-tension fractional rig. If the boat still carries its original rod rigging, it should be considered past its service life and replaced to prevent catastrophic mast failure.
• Rudder Bearings: High-performance rudders on these models often experience wear in the bushings or bearings, leading to "play" in the helm that can degrade steering precision.

Community & Resources

While there is no formal "Andrews 39 National Class Association," owners and enthusiasts typically congregate through the Alan Andrews Design network or within the broader PHRF of Southern California community. Technical support and original design insights are often available directly through the designer’s office, as Alan Andrews remains an active figure in the naval architecture world.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Outstanding downwind performance and ability to surf in moderate breezes.
• Build Quality: Dencho Marine's reputation for robust, high-end composite work ensures a stiff, durable hull.
• Versatility: Capable of winning regional regattas while remaining manageable for a small crew during deliveries.

Cons:

• Demanding to Sail: Requires constant attention to trim and a skilled helmsman to reach peak performance.
• Maintenance Intensive: High-performance components (rod rigging, cored hulls, racing sails) require more frequent investment than traditional cruisers.
• Spartan Accommodations: May lack the headroom and "luxury" amenities found in modern production boats like Beneteau or Jeanneau.