Columbia 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Columbia 39 are defined by its Bill Tripp underbody, featuring a relatively high-aspect fin keel and a spade rudder positioned well aft for maximum leverage. This configuration allows the boat to track surprisingly well for a vessel of its era, providing a balanced helm even as the breeze freshens. According to technical archives from the Columbia Yacht Owners Association, the boat was designed to be stiff and seaworthy, though the high freeboard inherent in the flush-deck design does introduce significant windage.

In light air, the 39 requires a generous headsail to move its approximately 16,000-pound displacement, but it excels in a breeze. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "locked in" once the hull finds its groove, a testament to the hull's powerful sections. The flush deck provides an exceptional platform for sail handling, allowing the crew to move forward with fewer trip hazards than a traditional trunk-cabin boat. However, the lack of a cabin trunk means the cockpit can feel somewhat exposed in heavy following seas, though the deep cockpit coamings provide a sense of security for the helmsman.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining feature of the Columbia 39 is its cavernous interior, which was market-leading for a 39-foot boat in 1971. By eliminating the traditional cabin trunk and raising the deck to the sheer line, Tripp created a cabin with headroom that exceeds 6'6" in many areas. This "widebody" feel is enhanced by the significant beam carried well aft. The standard layout typically featured a large U-shaped galley, a spacious navigation station, and a main salon that feels more akin to a 45-foot vessel.

The Columbia 39 hull was a versatile platform for the Whittaker Corporation. It was famously used as the basis for the Coronado 41, which utilized the same hull mold but featured a center-cockpit deck and a modified transom to extend the length. Later, the design evolved into the Columbia 41, which shared the hull and many internal components but offered a different deck layout to appeal to more conservative cruisers who preferred the look of a traditional trunk cabin over the 39’s radical flush deck.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Columbia 39 should focus their inspections on the structural integrity of the deck and the rudder assembly. Because the flush deck presents such a large, flat surface area, it is particularly susceptible to moisture intrusion and subsequent delamination of the balsa core if hardware has not been meticulously re-bedded over the decades. Soft spots on the foredeck are a common "gotcha" that can lead to expensive repairs.

The spade rudder and its associated quadrant should be inspected for signs of fatigue. Early 1970s fiberglass production occasionally saw rudders with internal steel armatures that can corrode if water penetrates the foam core, leading to swelling or failure. Additionally, the chainplates on the 39 are robust but are recessed into the deck; any signs of weeping or rust staining near the interior cabinetry should be investigated immediately, as these leaks can compromise the plywood bulkheads to which they are bolted. Finally, while the Perkins or Universal diesel engines originally installed were high-quality, many are reaching the end of their service life and should be evaluated for compression and exhaust manifold integrity.

Community & Resources

Owners of this model are supported by a dedicated community that preserves the history and technical specifications of the Bill Tripp era. The Columbia Yacht Owners Association serves as the primary repository for original brochures, line drawings, and owner manuals. This organization is vital for sourcing specifications for standing rigging and understanding the subtle differences between the California-built hulls and those produced at the Virginia facility.

The Verdict

The Columbia 39 is a vintage cruiser that offers an extraordinary amount of living space and a pedigree design that still holds its own in terms of pure sailing pleasure.

Pros:

• Massive Interior: Exceptional headroom and volume that rivals much larger modern boats.
• Clear Decks: The flush-deck design provides a safe, wide platform for sail handling and lounging.
• Tripp Pedigree: A well-balanced hull that handles heavy weather with confidence.

Cons:

• High Windage: The tall topsides make docking in crosswinds challenging.
• Polarizing Aesthetics: The "bubble-top" look is a product of its time and may not appeal to traditionalists.
• Maintenance Intensity: Large deck areas and aging fiberglass systems require a vigilant owner.