Bavaria 390 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Bavaria 390 is characterized by a moderate-to-heavy displacement of approximately 8,200 kg (18,077 lbs), which provides a significant amount of momentum and a comfortable motion in a seaway. With a ballast ratio hovering around 37%, the boat is notably stiff, carrying its sail area well into freshening conditions before requiring a reef. According to technical assessments originally published in the German publication Yacht magazine during the boat's launch window, the 390 was praised for its predictable tracking and ability to handle "proper" offshore conditions better than the lighter, flatter-bottomed designs that followed in the late 1990s.

The sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 18 indicates a capable cruiser that, while not a light-wind specialist, performs admirably once the breeze tops 10–12 knots. Under power, most units were equipped with Volvo Penta diesel engines, often the 2003T or MD22 series, paired with a saildrive. The hull’s deep forefoot reduces slamming in a head sea, though the relatively wide beam (3.90m) carried aft can lead to some weather helm if the boat is allowed to heel excessively. Owners typically report that the 390 feels "planted" and secure, making it a favorite for long-distance cruising in the North Sea and the Baltic.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Bavaria 390 is a showcase of traditional mahogany joinery, which contrasts sharply with the lighter, more modular interiors of modern yachts. The "Lagoon" variant is the preferred choice for long-term cruisers, typically featuring a three-cabin layout with a large, dedicated owner’s suite forward and two aft cabins. This version emphasizes storage and a more spacious galley-up arrangement.

In contrast, the "Carib" version was one of the first models to successfully integrate a four-cabin layout into a 39-foot hull. It achieved this by utilizing a bunk-bed cabin configuration or a split-forward cabin design, often accompanied by two heads. While this increased the sleeping capacity significantly, it compromised some of the stowage space found in the Lagoon. Both versions boast impressive headroom, often exceeding 1.90 meters in the main saloon, and benefit from a well-organized navigation station that reflects the era’s focus on paper charts and dedicated workspace. The use of high-quality veneers and solid wood trim has allowed many 390 interiors to age gracefully, provided they have been protected from UV damage and window leaks.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Bavaria 390 with a checklist tailored to its 30-plus-year age and specific construction methods.

• Teak Deck Integrity: Many 390s were delivered with thick teak decks screwed and glued to the fiberglass. Over decades, the bungs and sealant can fail, leading to water ingress into the balsa or foam core. A moisture meter test is essential for any teak-decked unit.
• Saildrive Seal: As with all saildrive-equipped boats, the rubber diaphragm seal should ideally be replaced every seven years. If the history is unknown, this should be a priority for the buyer.
• Rudder Bearings: Owners frequently report play in the rudder stock. While not a structural failure, it can lead to a "clunking" sensation at the helm and requires the replacement of the Jefa-style or nylon bushings.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: While the 390 is known for a robust grid system, any signs of "smile" cracks at the leading edge of the keel should be investigated for evidence of a hard grounding, which can stress the internal floors.
• Original Portholes: The Lewmar ports used in this era are prone to crazing and seal failure. Replacing the acrylic or the entire unit is a common, though necessary, maintenance task for this model.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Bavaria 390 are supported by a robust network of brand-specific organizations. The Bavaria Owners Association is the primary English-language resource, offering a wealth of technical manuals and a repository of member-contributed solutions for legacy models. Additionally, the German-based Bavaria Yacht Club provides a deep historical perspective on the Mohnhaupt-designed era of the shipyard's history.

The Verdict

The Bavaria 390 is a "blue-chip" choice for sailors seeking a vintage production cruiser that prioritizes structural mass and traditional aesthetics over modern "condo-maran" volume.

Pros:

• Robust Construction: Built during an era of heavier laminates and solid internal framing.
• Sea-kindly Motion: A heavy displacement and deep hull shape make for comfortable offshore passages.
• Interior Quality: High-grade mahogany joinery that provides a warm, traditional nautical feel.
• Versatility: The choice between Lagoon (Owner) and Carib (Charter) layouts allows buyers to prioritize cabins or comfort.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: Aging teak decks and original saildrives often require significant immediate investment.
• Weight: Can be sluggish in light winds compared to modern performance-cruisers.
• Dated Systems: Original wiring and plumbing may need upgrading to meet modern power demands (solar, lithium, etc.).