Rivage 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Rivage 39 are defined by its versatility across diverse sea states. As a centerboarder, the boat offers a distinct advantage in heavy downwind conditions; by raising the board, the crew can reduce the risk of "tripping" over a deep keel in large following seas, allowing the hull to slide gracefully. According to technical design notes from architect Jean-Pierre Brouns, the hull features a moderate displacement-to-length ratio that favors a steady, comfortable motion over raw speed. While it lacks the extreme pointing ability of a deep-finned racer, the Rivage 39 tracks exceptionally well thanks to its balanced hull form and twin rudder setup (on many versions). Owners often report that the boat feels "stiff" and secure, with the internal ballast providing a low center of gravity that handles the rig's power efficiently even when the wind freshens beyond 20 knots.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Rivage 39 is centered around a raised deck saloon, a hallmark of Brouns' designs that provides the crew with 360-degree visibility from the navigation station. This feature is a significant safety asset, allowing for "inside" watch-keeping during inclement weather or high-latitude passages. The layout typically accommodates two spacious cabins, though the specific finish varies depending on whether the boat was completed by a professional yard or as a custom fit-out.

High-quality marine plywood and solid wood trim are standard, with a focus on functional storage for long-term provisioning. The Rivage 39 has several siblings in the Brouns portfolio, including the Rivage 36, which offers a more compact version of the same explorer DNA, and the Rivage 45, which scales the concept up for larger families or professional expedition use. On the 39, the transition between the cockpit and the saloon is often designed with a shallow bridge deck, enhancing the connection between the outdoor handling area and the living space.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Rivage 39, particularly the aluminum variants, must focus their due diligence on the specialized systems inherent to metal boats and centerboarders.

• Galvanic Corrosion: A professional hull survey utilizing ultrasound thickness gauging is mandatory. Inspect the hull for pitting and ensure the electrical system is fully isolated to prevent electrolysis.
• Centerboard Assembly: The pivot pin, lifting cables, and the trunk itself should be inspected for wear. Any "clunking" sound while sailing or at anchor may indicate worn bushings in the centerboard housing.
• Window Seals: The large panoramic windows of the deck saloon are prone to leaks if the original bedding compound has hardened. Check for water staining on the woodwork beneath the frames.
• Insulation Integrity: Given the boat’s reputation for cold-weather cruising, verify the quality of the thermal insulation. Poorly applied insulation can lead to hidden condensation behind the cabinetry, which may cause corrosion or mold.

Community & Resources

Owners and enthusiasts of Jean-Pierre Brouns' designs often congregate through French-centric blue-water cruising forums and the architect's own technical resources. The most prominent hub for technical data and design philosophy remains the Jean-Pierre Brouns Official Site, which provides historical context on the Rivage series and its evolution from the earlier "Transat" and "Passage" models.

The Verdict

The Rivage 39 is an uncompromising blue-water tool designed for sailors who want to go where others cannot. It trades the sleek lines of a Mediterranean cruiser for the rugged utility and safety of a go-anywhere expedition yacht.

Pros:

• Shallow Draft: The full centerboard allows for beaching and entering shallow estuaries.
• Panoramic Visibility: The deck saloon is ideal for safe, comfortable watch-keeping.
• Robust Construction: Aluminum or wood-epoxy builds offer superior impact resistance for remote cruising.

Cons:

• Complexity: Retractable keel systems require more maintenance than fixed keels.
• Market Rarity: Finding a well-maintained example can be difficult due to limited production runs.
• Pointing Ability: Will generally sail several degrees lower to the wind than a fixed-keel performance cruiser.