It is the smaller of only two JPK models with a comfort character. Even so, the builder’s principal mischievously calls it a “cruiser/cruiser,” distinguishing it from the usual racer-cruiser label.
Design and Construction
The 39 FC develops the JPK 38 FC concept with a new hull shape and a more spacious interior. Larger bow sections increase volume, while the beam is 30 centimeters greater two meters back from the stem. The wide, powerful hull has bow sections deep enough to cut through waves, and its depth is tuned to absorb the added weight of a voyaging payload.
The squared coachroof has a pronounced reverse sheer, a reverse roof line, and a fixed windscreen. This gives the boat a modern appearance while increasing interior volume. Panoramic portholes bring plenty of light into the saloon.
The hull, deck, and bulkheads use vacuum-infused foam-sandwich construction, with a 25-millimetre Airex core and vinylester laminate. Only the keel suspension is solid laminate. A torsion-resistant structure, reinforced stress zones, and a T-keel with a cast-iron fin and lead bomb complete a chassis built like a racing sailboat, with high-quality GRP construction.
Rig, Cockpit, and Handling
Rather than twin wheels, the 39 FC has twin tiller posts. The helmsman sits on the side deck, behind short thwarts and ahead of a transom-mounted traveler. This arrangement keeps the mainsheet clear during maneuvers.
All the important controls—the tiller, backstay, traveler, and both winches—are within easy reach. The headsail sheet can also be redirected easily to the windward winch for singlehanded sailing.
A Yachting World tester found the helm finger-light and almost neutral upwind. With full sail set in a 23-knot breeze, the boat continued on course when the tester released the helm.
The 9/10 fractional rig carries an adjustable backstay for controlling mainsail shape and a long masthead crane for a big-roach main. A 1.6-meter retractable bowsprit efficiently separates the forestay from the asymmetric kite. The optional Axxon carbon mast removes 40 kilograms from aloft.
In 6 to 8 knots of wind, a YACHT tester averaged 6.5 knots under main and genoa. With the 138-square-metre top gennaker set, the boat sustained 9 knots in 12 knots of breeze, demonstrating early gliding ability.
Accommodations and Stowage
Below, the 39 FC has the feel of a deck-saloon yacht. A fixed windscreen and all-round glazing include three hull windows on each side, with 15-millimetre Plexiglas stripping the superstructure. The walnut interior feels inviting rather than opulent, and the saloon combines the warmth of a heavier cruiser with plenty of natural light.
The navigation station and longitudinal galley are to starboard. To port is a U-shaped settee with a divider for support. The saloon table lowers to create a proper double berth using stored cushions.
The forward-facing navigation seat can serve as either a desk chair or an athwartship berth. Opposite are double-door lockers and a hanging locker. Owners can specify two aft cabins, though this results in a slightly smaller head.
The forecabin steps down to a 2.1-meter double berth, with standing headroom beneath the forehatch. In the standard layout, tester-measured stowage totals 3.5 cubic metres.
Equipment and Owner Options
Owners can choose instruments and an autopilot from NKE or B&G. Since 2026, a wheel-bar option has been available in place of the twin tiller handles.
A two-blade folding propeller, carbon bowsprit, and 3D genoa-sheet adjustment are standard. The standard diesel tank holds 90 litres and can be doubled. The hull is covered by a 2-year warranty against osmosis.
Known Issues and Ownership Considerations
The basic 100-Ah battery is barely sufficient for longer trips. The standard Volvo Penta is also acoustically rough and quite loud. On the test boat, it was replaced by a more powerful but rustic 38-hp Nanni.
Some of the interior finish is simple. Veneered wet-room doors sit flush against a GRP inner shell without frame timbers, and black foam strips conceal the gap. The test boat also had restricted rudder deflection to starboard.
The boat is expensive, is sold without a dealer network, and has had lead times stretching beyond two years. The builder’s infusion process and one-shot floor lamination mean structural refits are rarely needed, but the loud engine and limited battery bank are the first upgrades for owners.
The Verdict
The JPK 39 FC is a genuine crossover: a racing-bred chassis wrapped around a bright, practical cruising interior. It is quick enough to plane in a modest breeze, yet stable and forgiving as the wind builds.
There are compromises in finish, engine refinement, and dealer support. For a self-reliant owner willing to accept them, the reward is a fast tourer well suited to short-handed sailing.
Pros
- Stable, forgiving platform with very high average speeds and early planing
- Regatta-derived cockpit with excellent short-handed ergonomics
- Bright, spacious interior with flexible berth and cabin layouts
- Vacuum-infused sandwich construction with reinforced stress zones
Cons
- Standard battery capacity is marginal for extended cruising
- Built-in diesel engine is loud and rough
- Some interior finishes are simple, and there is no dealer network
- Long lead times and a high purchase price
