Moorings 3900 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Moorings 3900 is widely regarded as one of the better-performing catamarans in its size class, largely due to its hull design and weight management. Unlike many modern cats that prioritize volume to the point of sluggishness, the 3900 features relatively slim hulls below the waterline with pronounced flares above to provide buoyancy and interior space. This design, analyzed in depth by Cruising World, allows the boat to maintain a respectable power-to-weight ratio.

On the water, the boat is characterized by its balanced helm and predictable tracking. The raised helm station to starboard offers excellent visibility of all four corners of the vessel, a critical feature for both docking and sail trimming. The sail plan typically includes a large, roached mainsail and a modest overlapping genoa, controlled by winches positioned within reach of the helm. This "single-handed friendly" setup is a hallmark of the Robertson & Caine philosophy. Under power, twin Yanmar diesel engines (typically 29hp or 39hp) provide a cruising speed of roughly 7 knots. The bridge deck clearance is high enough to significantly reduce the "slamming" common in smaller catamarans when heading into a chop, contributing to a much higher level of sea-kindliness during offshore passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Moorings 3900 is defined by the "galley-up" layout that has become the industry standard for catamarans. By placing the galley on the same level as the saloon and cockpit, the designer ensures the cook remains part of the social activity. One of the most praised features found in this model and its sibling, the Leopard 39, is the large, vertical wrap-around windows. These provide 360-degree visibility from the saloon and significantly reduce heat soak compared to sloped windows.

The Moorings 3900 was typically configured in a three-cabin "Owner's Version" layout for the charter fleet, though some four-cabin variants exist under the same hull mold. In the three-cabin version, the entire starboard hull is dedicated to a master suite, featuring a queen-sized berth, a desk/vanity area, and a large head with a separate shower stall forward. The port hull contains two guest cabins sharing a central head. Materials are chosen for durability and ease of maintenance, featuring light-colored woods and synthetic "Everwear" flooring designed to resist the wear and tear of sandy feet and salt water. The integration between the saloon and the cockpit is seamless, aided by a large sliding door that effectively doubles the living area when at anchor.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Moorings 3900 and its twin, the Leopard 39, have achieved significant critical acclaim since their debut. The design was named "Import Boat of the Year" and "Best Multihull" by Cruising World in 2010. Its reputation as a "bulletproof" charter boat has led to it being featured in numerous sailing vlogs and blue-water cruising memoirs, often cited as the ideal entry-level catamaran for couples transitioning to full-time live-aboard life.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers, particularly those looking at former charter vessels, should prioritize several technical areas during survey:

1. Saildrive Maintenance: The 3900 utilizes Yanmar saildrives. It is imperative to check the seals for water ingress and the lower units for signs of galvanic corrosion, which can be accelerated in crowded marinas.
2. Hardtop Integrity: The fiberglass hardtop bimini is a structural component that supports the weight of the boom and travelers. Inspect the stainless steel supports and the mounting points for stress cracks or "spidering" in the gelcoat.
3. Electrical Systems: Charter boats often have added aftermarket electronics or high-draw appliances (like air conditioning units) that may have been integrated into the factory harness. Ensure the wiring is tidy and that the battery bank is sufficient for the boat's current equipment.
4. Bulkhead Bonding: While Robertson & Caine is known for robust construction, any catamaran that has spent years in the Caribbean should be checked for "working" or movement in the bulkheads, particularly where they bond to the hull in the forward peaks.
5. Escape Hatches: Check the seals and hinges on the safety escape hatches located in the hulls. Older models may experience slow leaks or UV degradation of the acrylic.

Community & Resources

The Moorings 3900 benefits from a massive global support network due to its shared DNA with Leopard Catamarans. The Leopard Catamaran Owners Group is the primary hub for technical advice and owner modifications. Additionally, because these boats were built specifically for The Moorings, the Moorings Owner Program archives often contain detailed maintenance schedules and original build specifications that can be accessed by current owners. Technical documentation is also frequently updated via the Robertson & Caine corporate site, which maintains a history of their collaborative designs.

The Verdict

The Moorings 3900 remains a benchmark for the compact cruising catamaran. It manages to balance the often-conflicting requirements of charter durability, interior luxury, and genuine sailing performance. While it lacks the sheer volume of the newer "boxier" designs, it rewards the owner with better motion at sea and a more connected sailing experience.

Pros:

• Excellent bridge deck clearance reduces slamming in heavy seas.
• Ergonomic helm station with all lines led aft for easy short-handed sailing.
• Highly durable construction designed for high-frequency use.
• Exceptional natural light and ventilation in the saloon.

Cons:

• Former charter units may have very high engine hours and aesthetic wear.
• The fixed keels, while robust, limit upwind performance compared to daggerboard catamarans.
• Interior wood finishes in early models can be prone to "milking" or clouding if exposed to excessive moisture.