Maxi 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Maxi 39 is widely regarded for its balanced and predictable handling, a direct result of Pelle Petterson’s philosophy of blending cruising comfort with racing efficiency. The boat features a 7/8 fractional rig, a hallmark of Swedish design from this era, which allows for finer control over sail shape and easier reefing compared to a massive masthead genoa. With a moderate displacement-to-length ratio, the 39 carries enough momentum to punch through a typical Baltic or North Sea chop without feeling sluggish in lighter airs.

Under sail, the boat is known for being remarkably stiff. This stability is attributed to its lead keel and a well-proportioned ballast ratio. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well due to its deep spade rudder and semi-skeg arrangement. While it is a dedicated cruiser, the hull’s entry is fine enough to allow for respectable upwind angles. The center-cockpit configuration places the helmsman high and dry, though it does result in a slightly more complex linkage for the steering system compared to the more direct feel found in its aft-cockpit sibling, the Maxi 38.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Maxi 39 is a showcase of traditional Scandinavian joinery, typically finished in high-grade, satin-varnished mahogany. The center-cockpit layout fundamentally dictates the living spaces, creating a clear separation between the social areas and the private cabins. The centerpiece is the large salon, featuring a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, flanking a substantial drop-leaf table. The galley is generally located in the passageway leading aft to the master cabin, providing a secure "bracing" position for the cook while underway—a critical feature for long-distance voyaging.

The primary variation between the Maxi 39 and its siblings lies in the aft cabin. In the 39, the owner enjoys a full-width stateroom with a large double berth and often a private en-suite head. This is a significant upgrade in privacy over the Maxi 38, which utilizes a more traditional aft-cabin layout accessible from the cockpit or a smaller walkthrough. Headroom throughout the 39 is generous, typically exceeding 6'3" in the main salon, and the use of numerous deck hatches and portlights ensures the interior avoids the "cave-like" feel sometimes associated with older center-cockpit designs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Maxi 39 with a checklist focused on the complexities of 1990s Swedish construction and center-cockpit mechanics:

• Teak Deck Longevity: Many Maxi 39s were delivered with teak-over-fiberglass decks. At this age, the teak may be reaching the end of its serviceable life. Look for thinning planks, proud screws, or signs of moisture ingress into the balsa or foam core, which can lead to expensive delamination repairs.
• Saildrive Diaphragm: The vessel typically uses a Volvo Penta saildrive. The rubber hull seal (diaphragm) has a recommended replacement interval of seven years; if the service history is unclear, this should be a priority for the next haul-out.
• Steering Linkage: Because the cockpit is moved forward, the steering cables or rods are longer and involve more turns than an aft-cockpit boat. Inspect for friction, cable fraying, or play in the pedestal bearings.
• Window and Portlight Seals: The large forward-facing windows on some Maxi models of this era are prone to "crazing" or seal failure. Check the interior woodwork around the ports for water staining, which indicates a need for re-bedding.

Community & Resources

The Maxi 39 benefits from a robust European owner base, particularly in Scandinavia and the United Kingdom. Technical support and original build specifications can often be sourced through the Maxi Owners Association, a well-organized group that maintains archives for Petterson’s various designs. While the builder has transitioned through several ownership changes (including Nimbus and later Hanse Yachts), the Scandinavian Maxi Yachts enthusiasts' groups remain the primary repository for technical knowledge and spare parts sourcing for these legacy models.

The Verdict

The Maxi 39 is an overbuilt, elegant cruiser that offers a middle ground between a pure performance boat and a heavy-displacement tank. It is an ideal choice for a couple looking to transition into coastal or blue-water cruising in a vessel that feels secure without sacrificing the joy of sailing.

Pros:

• Superior Protection: The deep center cockpit provides excellent security in heavy weather.
• Build Quality: High-end Swedish joinery and solid fiberglass construction below the waterline.
• Owner’s Cabin: One of the best aft staterooms available in the 38–40 foot size range of its era.
• Petterson Pedigree: A hull that sails better than most equivalent "heavy" cruisers.

Cons:

• Maintenance Costs: Aging teak decks and saildrive units can require significant investment.
• Cockpit Space: The center cockpit is safer but smaller than the expansive aft cockpits found on modern Mediterranean-style cruisers.
• Engine Access: While generally good, some maintenance tasks in the walkthrough galley area can be cramped.