Ericson 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Ericson 39 is widely regarded as a "sailor's boat," characterized by its powerful sail plan and high ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 47%. With a displacement of 19,000 pounds and 9,000 pounds of lead deep in the keel, the boat exhibits exceptional stiffness and power when beating into a headwind. According to archival design notes from the Ericson Yachts Owners Association, Bruce King intended the 39 to be a competitive IOR ocean racer that could transition seamlessly into a comfortable offshore passage-maker.

In terms of handling, the boat tracks with remarkable precision due to its deep fin keel and large spade rudder. While many IOR-influenced designs from this period are notorious for "broaching" or becoming unstable when running downwind in heavy seas, the Ericson 39’s relatively generous beam and balanced ends mitigate these tendencies. It is a boat that rewards an active helm and proper sail trimming. Owners often report that the vessel finds its "groove" at about 15 degrees of heel, where the waterline lengthens and the hull's stability reaches its peak. Its Displacement/Length ratio of approximately 314 places it firmly in the "medium-heavy" cruiser category, providing a motion at sea that is far more predictable and comfortable than lighter modern production boats.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Ericson 39’s interior was revolutionary for its time, particularly in the flush-deck version. Because the deck sits higher than a traditional coachroof, the interior feels cavernous, boasting headroom that exceeds 6'2" throughout much of the cabin. The layout typically features a large u-shaped galley to port and a dedicated navigation station to starboard, followed by a sprawling salon. The use of warm Honduran mahogany and teak joinery was standard, reflecting the high-end positioning of the Ericson brand in the 1970s.

The "B" variant, or the Ericson 39B, addressed the primary criticism of the flush-deck model: the lack of natural light and forward visibility from the cabin. By adding a trunk cabin, Ericson provided traditional portholes and improved ventilation, though it sacrificed the expansive, unobstructed "dance floor" deck layout favored by racing crews. Both versions utilize a clever "convertible" dinette and pilot berths, allowing the boat to sleep up to seven people during offshore deliveries.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Ericson 39 earned its reputation on the racecourse before becoming a beloved cruiser. One of the model's most significant historical milestones was its performance in the 1970 Newport-to-Ensenada Race, where the Ericson 39 Nemesis secured an overall victory against a fleet of over 500 boats. This win solidified the model as a premier dual-purpose yacht. While much of its media coverage is found in vintage issues of Yachting and Sail Magazine, the boat maintains a "cult classic" status among offshore aficionados who value the era when Bruce King’s lines dominated the California racing scene.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Ericson 39 must account for the age of the vessel, as most hulls are now over 50 years old. While the hulls are solid fiberglass and notoriously overbuilt, the following areas require stringent inspection:

• Rudder Post and Blade: The spade rudder is a high-stress component. On older Ericson models, the internal steel armature can corrode if water penetrates the fiberglass skin, leading to delamination or, in extreme cases, structural failure.
• Deck Core: Like most boats of this era, the Ericson 39 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, chainplates, and the large flush-deck hatches can lead to soft spots. A professional moisture meter reading is essential.
• Chainplate Anchors: The chainplates are bolted to heavy-duty fiberglass knees. Over time, leaks at the deck level can cause the stainless steel to pit or the wood bulkheads nearby to rot.
• Mast Step: The boat features a deck-stepped mast supported by a substantial compression post. Buyers should inspect the base of the post and the "taper" of the cabin top to ensure no sagging has occurred over decades of rig tension.

Community & Resources

The Ericson 39 is supported by one of the most robust owner communities in the sailing world. The Ericson Yachts Owners Association serves as a primary repository for original blueprints, brochures, and technical manuals. This community is highly active in documenting DIY repairs and structural upgrades, providing a vital resource for anyone maintaining a vintage Ericson.

The Verdict

The Ericson 39 remains a premier choice for the traditionalist who desires a fast, offshore-capable yacht with timeless aesthetics. While it requires more maintenance than a contemporary boat, its sailing pedigree and "tank-like" construction offer a level of confidence that few modern boats can match.

Pros:

• Exceptional windward performance and heavy-weather stability.
• Timeless Bruce King aesthetics with a sleek, low profile.
• Massive interior volume, particularly in the flush-deck version.
• Extremely high ballast ratio for a comfortable motion at sea.

Cons:

• The spade rudder is vulnerable to impact and internal corrosion.
• The flush-deck version can feel "cave-like" due to fewer windows.
• Original plumbing and electrical systems typically require a full refit.
• Balsa-cored decks are prone to saturation if not properly maintained.