Sydney 39 CR Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing identity of the Sydney 39 CR is defined by its high-aspect fractional rig and a high-lead-ratio bulb keel, which provides a level of stiffness rarely found in pure production cruisers. According to editorial reviews by Boatsales, the 39 CR handles with the precision of a racing yacht but remains remarkably forgiving for a shorthanded crew. The hull's moderate displacement and clean exit lines allow it to accelerate quickly in light air, while the deep, balanced spade rudder ensures the boat tracks well even when pressed hard under a large asymmetrical spinnaker.

Unlike the Sydney 38, which was optimized for a large rail-meat crew, the 39 CR’s stability allows it to be campaigned effectively with fewer bodies. The sail area-to-displacement ratio is aggressive, reflecting its "Performance" designation, yet the deck layout is simplified. Most hulls feature a large-diameter wheel that provides excellent feedback, allowing the helmsman to feel the slight nuances of the Murray, Burns & Dovell hull form. It is particularly noted for its upwind prowess, where it points higher and maintains better momentum through a chop than many of its heavier European counterparts.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the 39 CR departs significantly from the spartan, functional aesthetic of the Sydney 38. The interior is characterized by warm timber veneers—often American Cherry or Teak—and a layout that prioritizes ergonomics at sea. The standard configuration typically includes three private cabins: a V-berth forward and twin double cabins aft, though some "Signature" versions were customized with a more spacious two-cabin layout to enlarge the storage and head area.

The galley is a L-shaped affair designed to be used while heeling, featuring deep sinks and adequate bracing for the cook. Headroom is generous for a boat with such a low-profile coachroof, a testament to the clever use of the hull's beam. While the Sydney 38 featured exposed hull sides and pipe berths, the 39 CR offers fully lined cabins and a proper navigation station. This focus on "civilized racing" was intended to compete directly with brands like X-Yachts and Grand Soleil, providing a locally built Australian alternative that matched European finishing standards.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Sydney 39 CR gained visibility in the Australian racing circuit during the early 2000s, frequently appearing in the results of the Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race and the Hamilton Island Race Week. It was often highlighted in regional marine media as the "thinking man's racer," providing a more comfortable platform than the one-design fleets while remaining competitive under IRC handicapping. Its reputation for durability was bolstered by the brand's success in grueling offshore events, where the Sydney Yachts construction method—vacuum-bagged E-glass and foam cores—proved its resilience.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Sydney 39 CR with the understanding that these are performance machines often driven hard in offshore conditions.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many foam-sandwich constructions, the deck can be susceptible to moisture ingress if hardware has been added or re-bedded improperly. Particular attention should be paid to high-load areas around the jib tracks and the mast base.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the high righting moment provided by the lead bulb, the keel floors and grid structure should be inspected for any signs of movement or "smile" cracks at the leading edge of the keel joint, which might indicate a history of groundings or excessive stress.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Many 39 CRs were fitted with rod rigging for performance. If the rod rigging is original, it is likely past its service life and will require a costly replacement to satisfy insurance requirements.
• Rudder Bearings: The balanced spade rudder is highly loaded; play in the rudder stock or stiffness in the steering should be addressed, as the bearings may require replacement after years of saltwater exposure.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Sydney 39 CR often find common ground within the broader Sydney Yachts community, which remains active through the Sydney 38 One Design Association. While the 39 CR does not have its own dedicated one-design class, technical support is frequently found through the legacy of the original builders and the ongoing support of Australian shipyards that specialize in Murray, Burns & Dovell designs.

The Verdict

The Sydney 39 CR is an exceptional choice for the sailor who refuses to compromise on hull speed and responsiveness but has outgrown the discomfort of a pure racing boat. It remains a "driver’s boat" that rewards tactical skill while providing a warm, dry retreat at the end of a passage.

Pros:

• Superior upwind performance and stiffness compared to standard production cruisers.
• High-quality vacuum-bagged construction provides a light yet robust hull.
• Versatile layout suitable for both competitive IRC racing and family coastal cruising.
• Modern, clean aesthetics that have aged better than many contemporary designs.

Cons:

• Requires more active sail trimming and attention than a heavy-displacement cruiser.
• The deep draft (typical for this model) may limit access to some shallow-water anchorages.
• Maintenance costs can be higher due to performance-oriented hardware and rigging.