Contessa 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Contessa 39 is a thoroughbred of the IOR generation, which dictates much of its handling character. With a high aspect rig and a deep fin keel, the boat is an exceptional upwind performer. Doug Peterson’s design philosophy for this hull focused on minimizing wetted surface area while providing enough stability to carry a large sail plan in heavy air. Consequently, the boat feels remarkably "stiff" and tracks with precision when close-hauled. According to technical archives from the Jeremy Rogers yard, these vessels were built to withstand the rigors of the North Atlantic, and their heavy-weather performance is frequently cited as a primary strength.

However, the IOR-influenced "pinched" stern and narrow waterline aft can make the 39 a handful when sailing deep downwind in a following sea. Like many yachts of this vintage, it is prone to rhythmic rolling (often called the "IOR death roll") if over-canvassed in heavy following winds. Modern owners often mitigate this by using smaller, more stable asymmetric spinnakers or simply by reefing early. The steering is typically geared for high-load racing, providing significant feedback to the helm, which experienced sailors find rewarding, though it requires more physical effort than a modern cruising yacht.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Contessa 39 reflects the dual-purpose nature of the vessel. While primarily a racer, Jeremy Rogers ensured a level of joinery and finish that exceeded the standards of most production yards. The layout is centered around a traditional seafaring arrangement: a deep, U-shaped galley to port and a proper navigation station to starboard, both designed to be functional even while the boat is heeled at 30 degrees.

Accommodations usually include a forward V-berth and two pilot berths in the main saloon—a hallmark of Peterson’s racing designs which allowed the crew to sleep on the high side of the boat during offshore legs. The use of high-quality teak and robust GRP moldings gives the cabin a secure, traditional feel. There were variations in the interior fit-out depending on the original owner’s intent; "Grand Prix" versions were often stripped of heavy cabinetry to save weight, while "Cruising" variants featured more extensive woodwork and additional creature comforts. Sibling models like the Contessa 35 and the larger Contessa 43 share this aesthetic, though the 39 is often viewed as the "Goldilocks" model—providing significantly more volume than the 35 without the daunting maintenance and crew requirements of the 43.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Contessa 39 with an understanding of its age and racing heritage. Three primary areas require rigorous inspection:

1. Mast Step and Chainplates: Given the high rig tension required for IOR racing, the mast step and internal grid structure should be checked for compression or stress cracking. Similarly, the stainless steel chainplates, which are often buried behind cabinetry, should be inspected for crevice corrosion.
2. Deck Delamination: Like many GRP boats of this era, the Contessa 39 utilized a balsa or foam core for the decks. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, cleats, or the massive genoa tracks can lead to core rot, necessitating expensive "skin-off" repairs.
3. Rudder Bearing and Skeg: Although the 39 features a robust rudder, years of high-load racing can wear the bearings or the attachment points of the skeg. Any "slop" in the wheel or tiller should be investigated.
4. Engine Access and Age: Many 39s were originally fitted with Bukh or early Yanmar diesels. While reliable, these engines are often nearing the end of their service life, and the tight engine compartments typical of Peterson designs can make a repower or major maintenance a logistical challenge.

Community & Resources

The Contessa 39 benefits from the overarching support of the Contessa 32 Association, which, while focused on the smaller model, often serves as a repository for historical data and technical advice for all Jeremy Rogers-built yachts. Furthermore, because the Jeremy Rogers yard is still active in Lymington, they remain a premier resource for original drawings, replacement parts, and professional refit services for the 39 fleet.

The Verdict

The Contessa 39 is a "sailor's sailboat"—a robust, elegant, and powerful offshore vessel that rewards a skilled hand. While its IOR hull shape presents some quirks downwind and its interior may feel "compact" compared to modern 40-footers with wide beams, its seaworthiness is beyond reproach. It remains a prestigious choice for those who value heritage and build quality over contemporary volume.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Built to the exacting standards of Jeremy Rogers, often outlasting modern production counterparts.
• Upwind Prowess: A true thoroughbred that excels in beating to windward in heavy weather.
• Timeless Aesthetics: Classic Peterson lines that command respect in any marina.

Cons:

• Downwind Handling: The narrow stern can lead to instability in a following sea if not managed carefully.
• Maintenance Intensity: Racing-grade hardware and a high-aspect rig require more upkeep than a simple coastal cruiser.
• Interior Volume: Lacks the "apartment-style" space found in modern yachts of the same length.