Motiva 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Motiva 39 is a heavy-displacement cruiser that prioritizes sea-kindliness and directional stability over raw speed or light-air agility. With a displacement typically exceeding 11,000 kg (approximately 24,000 lbs), the boat possesses a high Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio, which translates to a powerful, dampened motion in a seaway. This weight, while a hindrance in light winds under 10 knots, allows the 39 to carry its momentum through chop that would stop lighter yachts.

The hull usually features a semi-long keel with a protected rudder, a configuration that offers exceptional tracking. Owner accounts often highlight the vessel's ability to maintain a steady course under autopilot for days with minimal adjustment. When sailing off the wind, the Motiva 39 is in its element; however, its upwind performance is limited by the windward drag of the pilothouse and the relatively conservative sail area-to-displacement ratio. Many owners treat the 39 as a "true motorsailer," utilizing its often oversized diesel engine (frequently Perkins or Ford Lehman units) to maintain high average speeds when the wind moves forward of the beam.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The hallmark of the Motiva 39 is its pilothouse and deck saloon, which provide 360-degree visibility and a second steering station. This allows the crew to navigate and monitor the vessel in a climate-controlled environment, a critical feature for North Sea or high-latitude cruising. The interior joinery, typically executed in high-grade mahogany or teak by the Tony Dahl Yard, reflects a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in modern production boats.

The "39 S" variant often features a center-cockpit layout which allows for a generous aft cabin with a full double berth and en-suite facilities. The deck saloon serves as the social hub, elevated to provide views even while seated. Below the saloon level, the galley is typically located in a longitudinal passageway, providing a secure place to prepare meals while at sea. Variations exist where owners opted for a more traditional aft-cockpit arrangement, though the pilothouse remains the defining architectural feature of the model. Headroom is a notable strength, often exceeding 1.95m (6'5") in the main saloon, making it a preferred choice for taller sailors.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Motiva 39 requires a specialized approach due to its steel construction. While steel offers unmatched impact resistance, it demands vigilant maintenance to prevent oxidation.

• Corrosion in "Dead Zones": Potential buyers should inspect areas where water can trap against the hull, specifically the chain locker, the bilge area under the engine, and the spaces behind the built-in cabinetry. If the original insulation (often foam) has failed or was improperly applied, "sweating" can lead to localized rust behind the liners.
• Teak-Over-Steel Decks: Many Motiva 39s were delivered with teak-laid decks. If the fastenings have compromised the steel deck beneath or if the bedding compound has failed, water can migrate between the wood and the steel, leading to hidden corrosion. A professional ultrasonic thickness test of the deck and hull is mandatory.
• Tank Integrity: The fuel and water tanks are often integrated into the hull structure. While this saves space, an internal leak or corrosion within the tank can be difficult and expensive to remediate, often requiring the removal of floorboards or furniture.
• Rudder Bearing and Skeg: Given the age of many 39s, the lower rudder bearing and the attachment point of the skeg should be checked for play or signs of electrolytic action.

Community & Resources

Owners of Motiva yachts tend to be experienced, technical sailors who value self-sufficiency. While there is no large-scale international "Motiva Class Association," there is a dedicated presence within the Danish and German cruising communities. The Motiva Owners Group (often organized informally via European cruising forums) is a primary resource for technical drawings and advice on hull maintenance. Information regarding the designer's legacy can be found through the Danish maritime archives associated with Arne Borghegn's work.

The Verdict

The Motiva 39 is a specialist's vessel, designed for those who prioritize safety, warmth, and structural integrity over the performance metrics of modern fiberglass boats. It is a superlative choice for long-term liveaboards or those planning voyages to cold-weather destinations.

Pros:

• Impenetrable Build: Steel construction provides peace of mind in areas with debris or ice.
• True All-Weather Comfort: The pilothouse significantly extends the cruising season and reduces crew fatigue.
• Exceptional Joinery: The interior finish is of a standard that modern builders rarely match.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: Steel requires constant vigilance and periodic paint touch-ups to prevent rust.
• Languid Performance: High displacement and windage make it a poor performer in light air and a sluggish climber to windward.
• Complexity: The integration of dual steering stations and heavy systems requires a knowledgeable owner-operator.