Westsail 39 Information, Review, Specs

The design itself was not exclusive to Westsail. After the company's dissolution, the molds were utilized by Fair Weather Marine to produce the Fair Weather 39. Consequently, these two models are essentially siblings, sharing the same Perry-designed lines, though interior finishes and rig configurations can vary based on the builder and whether the boat was finished by the factory or as a kit.

Sailing Performance & Handling

Unlike the Westsail 32, which is often described as a "momentum boat" that requires a stiff breeze to find its stride, the Westsail 39 is a nimble performer. Robert Perry utilized a modified fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that drastically reduces wetted surface area compared to the traditional full keel. This allows the 39 to track well while remaining responsive to the helm. In his own reflections on the design, Perry has noted that the boat was intended to bridge the gap between a traditional cruiser and a racing hull of that era.

With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio significantly lower than the Westsail 32, the 39 is capable of reaching hull speed much more efficiently. It excels in light to moderate air where the heavier Westsails might struggle. Its cutaway forefoot and modern underbody allow it to tack through much tighter angles, solving the "sluggish" reputation often unfairly applied to the entire Westsail line. According to technical reviews in publications like Sail Magazine, Perry's designs from this era are celebrated for their "balanced" feel, ensuring the boat remains manageable even when pressed hard under a large genoa.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Westsail 39 reflects the era’s preference for high-quality teak joinery and a functional offshore layout. Because many Westsails were sold as kits, the interior quality and configuration can vary wildly from one hull to another. Factory-finished boats typically feature a traditional offshore arrangement: a U-shaped galley to port, a dedicated navigation station to starboard, and a large salon with a drop-leaf table.

The 39-foot hull provides significantly more volume than the 32, allowing for a proper V-berth forward and often a comfortable quarter berth or a small aft cabin, depending on the specific layout chosen by the original owner. Headroom is generous, usually exceeding 6'4", catering to taller sailors who found the smaller models cramped. The use of the same hull for the Fair Weather 39 means that some variants may feature more "custom" cabinetry, as Fair Weather often targeted a slightly more upscale market after Westsail’s closure.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Westsail 39 is prominently featured in Robert Perry’s book, Yacht Design According to Perry, where the architect discusses the transition from the traditional "Colin Archer" style to the performance-oriented cruisers of the 1970s. While it lacks the "Perfect Storm" fame of the Westsail 32, it is highly regarded in design circles as one of the hulls that helped define the "Performance Cruiser" category. Owners often document their refits and voyages on community platforms, emphasizing the boat’s ability to cover 150-180 nautical miles a day—a feat rarely achieved by the fuller-keeled models.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Westsail 39 with a focus on its construction era and the "kit boat" factor.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of the 1970s, the 39 used a balsa-cored deck. Any poorly bedded hardware can lead to moisture ingress and delamination. A thorough percussion test or moisture meter reading is essential.
• Chainplates: The stainless steel chainplates are often original. Given the age of these vessels, crevice corrosion is a concern, especially where the plates pass through the deck.
• Kit-Finish Variability: Because many were finished by private owners, the quality of the electrical wiring and plumbing can range from professional-grade to substandard. A dedicated systems survey is recommended to ensure the DC panel and tankage are up to modern safety standards.
• Keel Bolts: As a fin-keel design, the keel-to-hull joint should be inspected for the "Westsail smile" or any signs of movement, though the 39 was built with the same heavy-duty scantlings that made the brand famous.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for information on this model is the Westsail Owners Association (WOA). This organization maintains an exhaustive archive of factory drawings, technical manuals, and owner-contributed "fix-it" guides. Because the Westsail 39 shares its hull with the Fair Weather 39, owners also find significant technical crossover within Perry-design enthusiast groups and the Fair Weather owner circles. Bud Taplin’s Westsail Parts Company remains the definitive source for replacement hardware and historical context for the 39, despite its rarity.

The Verdict

The Westsail 39 is a "thinking man's Westsail," offering the legendary "bulletproof" hull of the California builder paired with the sophisticated performance of a Robert Perry design. It is an ideal vessel for the cruiser who admires the Westsail pedigree but refuses to sacrifice sailing speed or upwind capability.

Pros:

• Excellent sailing characteristics and windward performance for a heavy cruiser.
• Robust construction capable of serious offshore work.
• Generous interior volume and headroom compared to the Westsail 32.
• Timeless aesthetic that blends traditional and modern lines.

Cons:

• Rarity makes finding one on the market difficult.
• Potential for inconsistent interior quality due to kit-built origins.
• Higher maintenance requirements for the balsa-cored decks and aged teak interiors.