Valiant 39 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Valiant 39 is a dedicated cutter, designed to offer a versatile sail plan that remains manageable for a couple or solo sailor in heavy weather. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 252 and a Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 16.8, the boat is categorized as a moderate-to-heavy displacement cruiser. According to technical data from Valiant Yachts, the 39 features a fin keel with a structural skeg-mounted rudder, providing a balance of directional stability and maneuverability that many full-keeled cruisers lack.

In sea trials conducted by Cruising World, the boat demonstrated exceptional tracking abilities and a comfortable motion in chop. While speed and acceleration are not its primary strengths, the boat "settles into a groove" easily and finds satisfying angles upwind. The inclusion of a robust stainless steel bowsprit—a key difference from the original Valiant 37—increases the size of the foretriangle, allowing for a more efficient working staysail and better light-air performance than its predecessors.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Valiant 39 is optimized for life at sea rather than maximized for dockside entertaining. It typically features a two-cabin layout with 6'5" of headroom throughout the main salon. A standout feature of the Texas-built 39s is the craftsmanship; interior joinery is often finished in cherry or teak veneers with solid wood trim. The galley is a secure U-shaped configuration located to starboard, while the navigation station to port is sized for full-sized paper charts.

Variations on the hull are primarily found in its siblings. The Valiant 39 is essentially an updated version of the Valiant 37 (originally known as the Esprit 37). While the hull forms are nearly identical, the 39 incorporates a swim platform and an anchor/bowsprit assembly. This lineage eventually led to the Valiant 42, which further extended the transom and modernized the deck mold. In some custom builds, owners opted for the "Center Entry" configuration, which provides a dedicated shower stall in the head—a luxury rarely found on boats of this size from that era.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Valiant 40 is more frequently cited in historical accounts of circumnavigation, the Valiant 39 shares that same "voyaging DNA." It is often discussed in the works of its designer, Robert H. Perry, as a refined iteration of his most successful hull shapes. The model frequently appears in "Best Used Boat" lists by publications like Practical Sailor for its build quality and safety record.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Valiant 39 with a focus on age-related maintenance rather than the structural defects associated with older Valiant models.

• Texas vs. Washington Resin: It is critical to verify the build location. All Valiant 39s were built in Texas (post-1984), meaning they generally do not suffer from the "fire-retardant resin" blisters found on 1970s Valiant 40s.
• Chainplates: The stainless steel chainplates are secured to structural knees bonded into the hull. Owners recommend inspecting these for crevice corrosion, particularly where they pass through the deck.
• Engine Access: While generally praised for its accessibility, the Westerbeke 358 or Beta Marine diesel engines found in these boats require inspection of the V-drive unit and raw-water intake, which can be difficult to reach if additional tankage was installed.
• Deck Core: While Valiant used PVC foam coring in areas of high stress, some sections used balsa. A moisture meter survey of the deck around the stanchion bases and hatches is mandatory.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Valiant Owners Association (VOA), an active group that maintains a wealth of documentation on the 37, 39, and 42 series. Technical insights and design philosophy are also regularly updated on the official site of Robert H. Perry Yacht Designers.

The Verdict

The Valiant 39 is a specialized tool for the serious sailor, offering a level of security and durability that few modern production boats can match.

Pros:

• Exemplary "Texas-era" build quality with no history of systemic blistering.
• True cutter rig provides excellent sail-handling options for offshore work.
• Exceptional headroom (6'5") and sea-kindly motion for long-term living.
• High resale value due to brand reputation and limited production numbers.

Cons:

• Moderate speed; requires at least 10-12 knots of breeze to truly perform.
• Rare on the brokerage market, often leading to a premium price point.
• The canoe stern limits cockpit storage compared to modern wide-transom designs.