Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster Information, Review, Specs

The 39 Sailmaster was built using the same robust, if somewhat heavy, fiberglass techniques that Gulfstar was known for, but with an eye toward improved finishing. It shared its DNA with the Gulfstar 38 and 40 hulls of the era, though the "Sailmaster" designation usually denoted a more premium interior package and a center-cockpit layout designed to maximize the owner’s privacy. While Gulfstar initially struggled with a reputation for "production-grade" finishes, the Sailmaster series was an intentional step toward a more refined aesthetic, utilizing richer teaks and improved systems installations.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser. With a displacement of approximately 21,000 pounds and a relatively high Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio, the boat is designed for momentum and sea-kindliness rather than light-air agility. It features a modified fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that provides excellent tracking and protection for the steering gear during offshore passages.

According to historical performance assessments, the 39 Sailmaster excels in a breeze. Its heavy hull acts as a "dampener" against choppy seas, providing a comfortable, predictable motion that reduces crew fatigue. However, in light winds (under 10 knots), the boat’s significant wetted surface area can make it feel sluggish compared to modern performance cruisers. Owners often find that a larger genoa or a dedicated reaching sail is necessary to keep the boat moving in moderate conditions. The center-cockpit design places the helm high and dry, though this elevated position can increase the sensation of heel compared to an aft-cockpit vessel of the same size.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The primary draw of the 39 Sailmaster is its interior volume, which rivals many 45-footers of its generation. Because of the center-cockpit configuration, the boat features a sprawling master stateroom aft, complete with a double berth and, in many configurations, a private head. This layout was revolutionary for a boat under 40 feet, providing a level of privacy for cruising couples that was rarely found in contemporary designs.

The main salon typically features a U-shaped settee and a linear galley that serves as a passageway to the aft cabin. Headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding 6'4", which makes the boat particularly attractive to taller sailors. The forward V-berth serves as a guest cabin, often supported by a second head. While the 47 Sailmaster sibling offered a true three-cabin layout, the 39 focused on the "perfect couple’s cruiser" format. Materials used in the Sailmaster series were a step up from the Formica-heavy early Gulfstars, utilizing solid teak trim and veneers, though buyers should note that the quality of the joinery can vary depending on the specific production year and the level of subsequent owner customization.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster requires a diligent survey, as boats of this era and construction method are prone to specific "age-related" issues:

• Osmotic Blistering: Like many Florida-built boats from the late 70s and early 80s, Gulfstars are known to develop osmotic blisters (often referred to as "Gulfstar smiles" in the community). While rarely structural, they can be extensive and expensive to remediate.
• Deck Coring: The decks are typically balsa-cored. Freshwater leaks around stanchion bases, windlasses, and the distinctive large salon windows can lead to soft spots. A thorough percussion test of the deck is mandatory.
• Chainplates: The chainplates are bolted through the hull/deck joint area. Over time, these can leak, leading to moisture ingress in the bulkheads. Inspect the wood around the chainplate anchors for rot or staining.
• Engine Access: While the center-cockpit layout provides an engine room under the cockpit sole, access can be tight for major repairs. Buyers should check the condition of the original Perkins or Westerbeke engines, as many are reaching the end of their reliable service life.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The original aluminum tanks may suffer from pinhole leaks due to corrosion, especially if they have been sitting in stagnant bilge water. Replacing these often requires significant joinery work.

Community & Resources

The Gulfstar 39 is supported by a dedicated group of enthusiasts. The Gulfstar Owners Club is the primary technical resource, offering a repository of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and owner-led modifications. While there is no longer an active manufacturer, the Lazzara family legacy continues to be a point of pride for owners, and technical support is often found through shared knowledge in these specialized owner circles.

The Verdict

The Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster remains a compelling choice for cruisers who prioritize living space and a stable platform over racing performance. It is a robust vessel that, when properly maintained, is more than capable of coastal hopping or Caribbean circuits.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume with a private, large aft cabin.
• Solid, heavy-displacement motion that is comfortable in offshore conditions.
• Reliable tracking and hull protection from the skeg-hung rudder.
• Strong community support and recognizable brand heritage.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light air and a lack of agility in tight quarters.
• High potential for osmotic blistering and deck core issues.
• Older systems (original plumbing and wiring) often require a complete overhaul for modern cruising.