Sailing Performance & Handling
The Offshore 39 was designed to be "stiff as a church," a sentiment Richards frequently applied to his designs of this era. Technically, the boat sits in the moderate-displacement category with a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 285, providing enough mass to maintain momentum in a seaway without the sluggishness of older full-keel cruisers. Its Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio of roughly 17.6 suggests a balanced sail plan that is manageable for a couple while providing sufficient power in light to moderate air.
Unlike the skeg-hung rudders found on many cruising boats of the 1970s, the Offshore 39 features a robust, external transom-hung rudder paired with a deep cruising fin keel. This configuration provides exceptional leverage for the helm and simplifies maintenance, though it requires a sturdy mounting system to handle offshore loads. Owners report that the boat tracks exceptionally well and feels most at home on a reach, where the hull's subtle tumblehome provides a stable platform. According to editorial analysis from Practical Sailor, Richards’ designs from this period were notable for their "up-to-date" underwater shapes that gave a slight nod to the IOR (International Offshore Rule) while prioritizing sea-kindliness over racing metrics.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Inside, the Offshore 39 reflects the "creative" approach to space that Ray Richards was known for. The interior is a showcase of Burmese teak, with high-quality joinery that has largely stood the test of time. The layout typically includes a large, circular or U-shaped dinette that can seat up to six or eight people—a design element sometimes referred to as a "playpen" by the designer's family and early owners.
The cabin is remarkably open for a 39-foot vessel of its vintage, often featuring a wide-open 18-foot long main salon. Because these boats were built before the widespread miniaturization of marine electronics, the navigation station is generously sized with a large, hinged chart table. While most units were rigged as sloops, the shipyard’s flexibility allowed for various owner-specified customizations, and some units may be found with unconventional cabin configurations suited for expedition-style cruising.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers must navigate the "Leaky Teaky" reputation that follows many Cheoy Lee models from the 1970s. While the hulls are robustly built using GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), the execution of the deck and hardware requires rigorous inspection.
- Teak Deck Saturation: The most common issue is the teak deck installation. Thousands of screws were used to fasten the teak planks to a plywood-cored fiberglass deck. Over decades, water often migrates through these screw holes, leading to core rot. If the decks have not been professionally replaced or "glassed over," a moisture meter test is mandatory.
- Proprietary Metalwork: Cheoy Lee manufactured much of its own stainless steel and bronze hardware in-house. While beautiful, this metal often had higher impurity levels than US-spec hardware, leading to "pitting" or crevice corrosion in chainplates and stanchions.
- Engine Placement: In several Richards designs, the engine was placed low beneath the cabin sole to keep the center of gravity down. This can lead to the oil pan sitting in the bilge water, resulting in "frozen" starters or rusted pans if the bilge was not kept bone-dry.
- Spars: Many Offshore 39s were originally equipped with Sitka spruce masts. Unless these have been meticulously varnished every season, they are likely reaching the end of their service life and should be inspected for rot at the spreaders and masthead.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical support and historical data is the Cheoy Lee Association. This organization maintains an archive of original brochures and a registry of hull numbers. While the Offshore 39 is a small group within the association, the technical overlap with the Offshore 41 and Richards 38 means that the collective knowledge of the community is highly relevant for restoration and maintenance.
The Verdict
The Cheoy Lee Offshore 39 is a connoisseur’s cruiser—a rare, aesthetically striking vessel that offers more performance than its traditional lines might suggest. It is best suited for an owner who appreciates classic aesthetics and is willing to manage the maintenance requirements of a teak-intensive yacht.
Pros:
- Stout Construction: Heavy fiberglass layup capable of serious bluewater passages.
- Aesthetic Appeal: One of the most beautiful "modern-classic" silhouettes of the late 70s.
- Predictable Handling: Stiff and stable with excellent tracking due to its Richards-designed hull.
Cons:
- High Maintenance: Extensive exterior teak requires constant attention or expensive replacement.
- Rarity: With only a handful built, finding parts or specific sister-ship advice can be challenging.
- Corrosion Risks: In-house hardware and low engine placement require diligent monitoring.
