Faurby 393 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Faurby 393 is defined by its narrow hull and high ballast ratio, which together produce a yacht that is exceptionally stiff and weatherly. Unlike modern "fat-bottomed" cruisers that rely on form stability and twin rudders to stay upright, the 393 uses a deep lead keel and a slender waterline to slice through chop rather than pounding over it. On the helm, the boat is reported to be exceptionally balanced; the narrow beam ensures that the rudder remains deeply immersed even at higher angles of heel, preventing the "broaching" tendency common in wider yachts when over-canvased.

The rig is typically a tall, fractional setup with swept-back spreaders, allowing for fine-tuned sail shape and high pointing angles. Because the boat is relatively light for its length—displacing significantly less than its contemporary counterparts from builders like Hallberg-Rassy—it performs admirably in light airs. However, it truly excels when the wind picks up, where its low center of gravity provides a secure, "locked-in" feeling. According to technical assessments found in Danish maritime circles, the 393 tracks with remarkable precision, requiring minimal autopilot effort during long offshore passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Faurby 393 is often described as a masterclass in Scandinavian joinery. Faurby’s heritage as a "cabinet maker’s boatyard" is evident in the hand-selected mahogany or teak finishes and the seamless integration of lockers and bulkheads. Because Faurby operates on a semi-custom basis, the 393 can be found in several configurations. The most common layout features a classic V-berth forward, a central saloon with two longitudinal settees, and a refined galley and navigation station flanking the companionway.

A notable sibling to the 393 is the Faurby 396, which shares much of the same DNA but often features a modified stern or updated deck hardware. Some versions of the 393 were built with a "De Luxe" specification, which included upgraded woods and more intricate storage solutions. The headroom is generous for a boat of this profile, though the narrow beam naturally restricts the "open-concept" feel found in Mediterranean-style cruisers. Instead, the 393 offers a cozy, secure interior where every handhold is exactly where it needs to be for safety at sea.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Faurby 393 should focus on the specific maintenance requirements of high-end Baltic builds. While the structural integrity is generally superb, several areas require scrutiny:

• Teak Deck Condition: Many 393s were delivered with vacuum-glued teak decks. While this method is superior to screwed-down decks (as it avoids thousands of potential leak points), the teak will eventually thin after decades of cleaning. Inspect for "proud" caulking and worn-through areas, as replacement is a labor-intensive and expensive undertaking.
• Saildrive Diaphragm: Like many European yachts of this era, the 393 typically uses a Volvo Penta saildrive. The rubber hull seal (diaphragm) has a recommended replacement interval of seven years; verify the last replacement date in the ship's log.
• Rigging Loads: Because the 393 is a performance-oriented boat, the standing rigging often experiences higher tensions than a standard coastal cruiser. A thorough professional survey of the chainplates and the mast step is essential, especially if the boat has been campaigned in club racing.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Faurby uses a robust internal grid to distribute keel loads, but it is always prudent to check for "smile" cracks at the leading edge of the keel, which could indicate a historical grounding or the need for re-torquing the keel bolts.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical context is the official Faurby Yachts website, which maintains an archive of their legacy models and continues to support owners with parts and advice. Additionally, the Danish and German Faurby owner communities are active, often organizing rallies and sharing technical knowledge regarding refits. While no standalone international "393 Association" exists, owners are typically welcomed into the broader Scandinavian performance cruising forums where Faurby, Luffe, and X-Yachts enthusiasts congregate.

The Verdict

The Faurby 393 is a "sailor's yacht" that sacrifices raw interior volume for superior handling and timeless aesthetics. It is an ideal choice for a couple or a small family who prioritize build quality and the ability to make fast, comfortable passages in varying sea conditions.

Pros:

• Exquisite Danish craftsmanship and joinery that far exceeds mass-production standards.
• Exceptional upwind performance and a balanced, tactile helm.
• High ballast ratio and narrow beam provide safety and comfort in heavy weather.
• Bespoke nature means many hulls have unique, high-quality upgrades.

Cons:

• Narrow interior volume compared to modern 39-foot cruisers.
• Higher maintenance costs associated with teak decks and high-performance rigging.
• The slender hull can be "tender" initially before reaching its optimal heel angle.