CR 390 DS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The CR 390 DS is a sailor’s deck saloon, benefitting from a hull design that emphasizes stability and tracking over raw speed. While the raised coachroof adds windage compared to its sibling, the standard aft-cockpit CR 390, the displacement-to-length ratio remains moderate, ensuring it does not feel sluggish in light air. According to historical technical data from the manufacturer, CR Yachts, the boat typically features a lead keel and a powerful fractional rig, which helps lower the center of gravity and counteract the weight of the elevated cabin structure.

Under sail, the boat is known for a "stiff" feel, meaning it resists excessive heeling, which is a critical comfort factor for the long-distance cruisers who favor this model. The steering is generally reported as precise, utilizing a large wheel that provides enough leverage to manage the balanced spade rudder in a blow. While it is not a racing yacht, its ability to maintain high average speeds on a reach makes it an exceptional passage-maker. The sightlines from the cockpit remain excellent despite the raised saloon, though many owners appreciate the internal helm option or autopilot controls found on some hulls, allowing for "watch-keeping" from the warmth of the interior.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining feature of the CR 390 DS is its "true" deck saloon layout. Unlike "raised coachroof" designs where you cannot see out the windows while seated, the CR 390 DS features a raised U-shaped settee to port that offers 360-degree views of the horizon. This design is particularly favored by high-latitude sailors who wish to escape the elements without feeling trapped in a "basement" layout. The interior is typically finished in satin-varnished Khaya mahogany, a staple of Orust builds, providing a warm and robust aesthetic.

The 390 DS was often produced with several layout variations to suit individual owners. The most common configuration features a large forward V-berth with an en-suite head and a secondary double cabin tucked under the raised saloon floor to the aft. A sibling model, the CR 390 (non-DS version), shares the same hull but utilizes a traditional low-profile cabin trunk, offering more cockpit storage but losing the panoramic views and the spacious, airy feel of the DS version. Because CR Yachts operated as a semi-custom builder, some units may feature a linear galley versus a C-shaped galley, depending on the original commission.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

As with any premium Swedish yacht of this vintage, the CR 390 DS is built to high standards, but several specific areas require scrutiny during a pre-purchase survey:

1. Teak Deck Integrity: Most CR 390 DS models were delivered with vacuum-glued teak decks. While this method is superior to screwed-down decks, any signs of thinning or "proud" caulking after two decades of use may indicate an impending and expensive replacement.
2. Saildrive Diaphragm: These yachts are typically powered by Volvo Penta engines with saildrive units. Buyers should verify the age of the rubber hull seal (diaphragm); manufacturers recommend replacement every seven years, though many owners extend this.
3. Rigging and Chainplates: Given the yacht's capability for blue-water cruising, the standing rigging should be inspected for swage cracks. Check the accessibility of the chainplates, as Orust builders often glass these deeply into the hull structure.
4. Window Seals: The large panoramic windows of the deck saloon are a primary feature but also a potential point of failure. Check for evidence of water staining on the mahogany joinery below the window frames, which suggests seal degradation.

Community & Resources

The CR Yachts community is centered primarily in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, where the boats are highly regarded for their ability to handle the North Sea and Baltic conditions. Information and technical support can often be found through the CR Yachts Official Site, which maintains a legacy of supporting older models. Owners also frequently congregate in regional Orust-boat owner groups, as the construction techniques share significant DNA with other premium Swedish brands.

The Verdict

The CR 390 DS is a connoisseur’s cruiser, offering a level of build quality and interior comfort that few modern production boats can match. It is an ideal vessel for a couple looking to extend their sailing season into the shoulder months or for those transitioning from a performance monohull to a more comfortable "view-enabled" cruising life.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality with high-end Swedish joinery.
• True 360-degree visibility from the interior seating area.
• Better sailing performance than most deck saloon competitors.
• Strong resale value due to the reputation of the CR Yachts yard.

Cons:

• Higher windage than standard aft-cockpit models can complicate docking in crosswinds.
• Premium pricing on the used market compared to mass-produced yachts of the same length.
• Complex window structures require diligent maintenance to prevent leaks.