C&C 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The C&C 39 is often described by seasoned sailors as a "powerhouse" upwind. With a displacement of approximately 16,000 pounds and a generous sail area, it possesses the inertia to punch through heavy chop—a trait frequently noted in historical race reports from the Great Lakes and the Atlantic seaboard. The hull design features the characteristic IOR "tumblehome" and a relatively pinched stern, which was intended to optimize the boat’s rating under the racing rules of the era.

While the 39 tracks exceptionally well on a beat, its handling downwind in heavy air requires an attentive hand on the helm. Like many IOR designs of its generation, it can be prone to "death rolls" if over-canvassed in a following sea. However, its high ballast-to-displacement ratio (approximately 46%) provides a stiff, stable platform that inspires confidence in moderate to heavy conditions. Technical specifications maintained by the C&C Photo Album & Resource Center indicate a draft of over 6 feet for the standard fin keel version, which contributes to its superior lift and pointing ability compared to shallower-draft cruisers of the same vintage.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike modern "med-style" cruisers that prioritize voluminous cabins at the expense of storage, the interior of the C&C 39 is designed for functionality at sea. The layout typically features a traditional V-berth forward, followed by a head and hanging lockers. The main salon is characterized by a mix of pilot berths and settee berths, a configuration that reflects its racing heritage by providing secure sleeping quarters for off-watch crew while the boat is heeled.

The use of rich teak joinery and a solid fiberglass liner gives the cabin a robust, traditional feel. Variations of the 39 include a "Tall Rig" version, which added several feet to the mast to improve performance in light-air regions like the Chesapeake Bay. Additionally, while most units were built as standard production fiberglass hulls, a few "Custom" 39s were produced with specialized laminates or minor interior modifications for dedicated racing campaigns. The transition from the 39 to the later C&C 38 and C&C 40 models saw a gradual shift toward more "social" interior layouts, but the 39 remains the choice for those who prefer a more traditional, seaworthy cabin arrangement.

Popular Mentions & Media

The C&C 39 holds a significant place in competitive sailing history. A notable success occurred in 1972 when the C&C 39 Windward secured a class victory in the prestigious Southern Ocean Racing Conference (SORC), a feat that helped establish C&C Yachts as a global force. The model is frequently cited in retrospectives of Canadian maritime history as the boat that bridged the gap between custom one-off racers and mass-market production boats. Editorial archives from Canadian Yachting often reference the 39 as a benchmark for the "Golden Age" of Ontario boatbuilding.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a C&C 39 must prioritize the inspection of the hull and deck core. C&C was a pioneer in the use of balsa-coring, not just in the decks but often in the hull skins above (and sometimes below) the waterline.

• Core Saturation: Using a moisture meter and percussion testing (hammer sounding) is essential. Common entry points for water include stanchion bases, chainplates, and improperly sealed through-hull fittings. If the balsa core has rotted, repairs can be prohibitively expensive.
• Mast Step Corrosion: The 39 utilizes a keel-stepped mast. Over decades, saltwater intrusion can cause the aluminum mast base to corrode or the steel mast step to rust, potentially compromising the rig's tension.
• Rudder Bearings: The large spade rudder is effective but puts significant stress on its bearings. Check for excessive "slop" or play in the steering system, which may indicate worn bushings or a bent rudder post.
• Keel Bolt Integrity: Given the age of these vessels, the stainless steel keel bolts should be inspected for crevice corrosion, especially if the "smile" (a gap at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint) is visible.

Community & Resources

The C&C 39 benefits from one of the most robust owner communities in the sailing world. The C&C Owners Association provides a wealth of technical data, original brochures, and a network of owners who share solutions for common maintenance tasks. Because many of these boats are still actively raced in PHRF (Performance Hunter Racing Fleet) divisions, technical support for sail trim and rig tuning is readily available through various regional yacht club archives.

The Verdict

The C&C 39 is a "sailor’s sailboat" that offers a level of build quality and performance rarely found in modern entry-level cruisers. While it requires a vigilant maintenance schedule—particularly regarding its cored construction—it rewards its owner with timeless lines and a pedigree of offshore success.

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance and pointing ability.
• High-quality interior joinery and seaworthy layout.
• Strong community support and deep historical pedigree.
• Stiff and stable in heavy weather.

Cons:

• High risk of balsa core saturation if not meticulously maintained.
• Pinched stern design can lead to challenging handling in heavy following seas.
• Keel-stepped mast is prone to base corrosion.
• Deep draft may limit access to shallow cruising grounds.