Carter 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Carter 39 exhibits the classic characteristics of a heavy-displacement IOR thoroughbred. With a high ballast-to-displacement ratio, the boat is exceptionally stiff, allowing it to carry full sail longer than its modern, lighter counterparts. Its upwind performance remains its strongest suit; the deep fin keel and high-aspect rig enable it to point high and track with a "freight train" stability in a seaway. According to technical reflections from the Dick Carter Yachts archive, Carter’s designs were pioneered to maximize the efficiency of the foretriangle, meaning the boat relies heavily on its headsails for power.

However, the handling changes significantly when the wind moves aft. The pronounced tumblehome and narrow stern, while beneficial for the IOR rating, can lead to the infamous "IOR roll" when running downwind in heavy seas. A skilled hand at the helm is required in these conditions, as the boat can become "squirrelly" if overpowered. Despite this, the Carter 39 is widely regarded as a sea-kindly vessel that inspires confidence in blue-water conditions, effectively punching through chop that would slow down a more modern, flat-bottomed hull.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Carter 39 is a testament to the era’s focus on craftsmanship and the practicalities of offshore living. Because the hull is so wide amidships, the salon feels cavernous for a 39-foot boat. Most Greek-built models feature extensive use of teak and mahogany, reflecting the high labor standards of Olympic Marine during the 1970s. The layout typically includes a traditional V-berth forward, a large U-shaped galley that remains functional at a heel, and a dedicated navigation station that would satisfy a professional mariner.

Olympic Marine produced several variations of the hull, most notably the Olympic 40 and Olympic 41, which were essentially evolutions or "stretched" versions of the Carter 39 mold. The Olympic 40 often featured a more refined cruising interior and a modified coachroof to increase headroom. Some versions were delivered as flush-deck models, catering to the racing crowd who prioritized a clear working platform, while the "Cruising" or "Landfall" versions provided a more traditional trunk cabin, offering significantly better light and ventilation below deck.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Carter 39 with a focus on age-related structural integrity. The primary concern with Greek-built hulls of this era is osmotic blistering. While Olympic Marine used heavy hand-laid fiberglass, the resins of the 1970s were susceptible to moisture ingress. A professional hull survey with a moisture meter is essential.

Another high-signal area for inspection is the balsa-cored deck. Soft spots, particularly around the chainplates and stanchion bases, are common and indicate that water has compromised the core. Furthermore, the Carter 39’s massive masthead rig puts immense tension on the rigging and the internal hull grid; buyers should inspect the keel bolts and the structural floors for any signs of movement or "oil-canning." Finally, because many of these boats were campaigned hard in their early years, the rudder bearings and steering cables often require replacement to restore the precise feel intended by the designer.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Carter 39 is maintained by a dedicated group of enthusiasts who value the boat's "built like a tank" reputation. While there is no longer a centralized manufacturer support system, technical knowledge is frequently shared through the Dick Carter designer archives. Owners of Greek-built models also find a wealth of construction-specific information through European classic yacht circles, where the Olympic Marine builds are prized for their heavy-duty scantlings compared to the lighter French-built versions of the same era.

The Verdict

The Carter 39 is a rugged, aesthetic, and historically significant ocean cruiser that offers immense value for sailors who prefer classic lines and heavy-weather capability over modern dock-side volume.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: The Olympic Marine construction is notoriously robust, utilizing heavy fiberglass schedules.
• Upwind Performance: A powerful climber that excels in offshore beats and heavy air.
• Timeless Aesthetics: The Dick Carter lines, marked by the iconic tumblehome, remain some of the most beautiful of the 1970s.

Cons:

• Downwind Handling: The narrow stern can make the boat restless and prone to rolling in following seas.
• Maintenance Intensive: Age-related issues like deck core saturation and osmosis are common and expensive to repair.
• Large Headsails: The IOR rig requires significant physical effort to tack and trim large genoas compared to modern fractional rigs.