Scanner 399 DS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Despite the added windage and weight associated with a raised deck saloon, the Scanner 399 DS maintains the athletic DNA of its predecessor, the 391. The yacht typically employs a 7/8 fractional rig with swept-back spreaders, a setup that allows for easy tensioning of the forestay and fine-tuning of the mainsail. Sailors often note that the boat feels "stiff" and well-balanced, thanks in part to a generous ballast ratio and a lead keel that keeps the center of gravity low.

Under sail, the 399 DS tracks exceptionally well. Unlike some deck saloon models that suffer from a "top-heavy" sensation in a blow, the Scanner’s hull remains responsive to the helm. The boat is designed to be handled by a small crew, with lines often led back to the cockpit to facilitate short-handed sailing. Anecdotal evidence from Northern European sailing circles suggests that the 399 DS excels in light-to-moderate air, where its relatively high sail area-to-displacement ratio (inherited from the 391) allows it to outpace heavier cruisers. The steering remains light and communicative, providing the helmsman with the tactile feedback necessary for performance-oriented cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining characteristic of the 399 DS is its interior volume and light. By raising the saloon floor, Scanyacht created a living space where occupants can enjoy a 360-degree view of the horizon while seated. This design choice is particularly beneficial for high-latitude cruising or inclement weather, as it reduces the "basement" feel common in traditional monohulls. The interior joinery is typically finished in high-grade mahogany or teak, reflecting the Scanyacht AB tradition of Swedish craftsmanship.

The layout usually features a large C-shaped settee to port with a navigation station that offers excellent visibility. Below the raised saloon, the 399 DS offers a variety of cabin configurations, though most units were delivered with a two-cabin layout: a spacious V-berth forward and a generous master cabin tucked under the cockpit. The galley is often positioned in a "step-down" configuration, which keeps the cooking area separate from the social flow of the saloon while still feeling connected to the natural light streaming through the large deckhouse windows. Because the 399 DS shares its hull with the 391 and 392, the bilge and tankage layouts are nearly identical, though the 399 DS often carries slightly more fresh water to accommodate longer-range cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Scanner 399 DS requires a focused inspection of the features unique to its deck saloon architecture. Prospective buyers should prioritize the following areas:

1. Window Seals and Glazing: The large panoramic windows are the yacht's greatest asset but also a potential point of failure. Check for signs of crazing in the acrylic or leakage around the frames, which can lead to damage in the woodwork below.
2. Teak Deck Condition: Many Scanners were built with vacuum-glued teak decks. While this method reduces the number of screw holes, the teak will eventually thin or the caulking may fail. Inspect for areas where the wood has worn down to the bungs or where the bond to the fiberglass has delaminated.
3. Rudder Bearings: Like many performance cruisers from the late 90s, the Scanner 399 DS can develop play in the rudder bearings over time. Ensure the steering is smooth and free of "clunking" sounds when under load.
4. Sandwich Core Integrity: Scanyacht utilized a Divinycell sandwich core for the hull and deck. A moisture meter should be used around deck fittings, chainplates, and stanchions to ensure no water has migrated into the core material.
5. Rig Tension: Given the fractional rig, the mast is designed to have a permanent pre-bend. Inspect the standing rigging for age and ensure the chainplates are securely anchored and show no signs of weeping or stress.

The Verdict

The Scanner 399 DS is a rare find on the brokerage market, appealing to a specific niche of sailor who demands both Scandinavian build quality and the "live-aboard" comforts of a deck saloon. It is a boat that feels as home in the Swedish archipelagos as it does crossing the North Sea.

Pros:

• Exceptional Visibility: The panoramic views from the saloon are superior to almost any other boat in the 40-foot class.
• Performance Heritage: Inherits the fast, balanced hull of the Scanner 391.
• Build Quality: High-end Swedish construction with beautiful interior joinery.
• Short-Handed Capability: Efficient rig and deck layout make it manageable for a couple.

Cons:

• Complexity of Glazing: Large windows are expensive to replace and maintain.
• Market Rarity: Finding a well-maintained 399 DS can be difficult due to limited production numbers.
• Windage: The higher coachroof makes the boat more susceptible to leeway during low-speed docking maneuvers in a crosswind.