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Sailboat Specifications

Cal 39 Mk Iii

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by C. William Lapworth · Built by Bangor Punta · First built 1983

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LOA 39.00 ft  ·  Beam 12.00 ft  ·  Displacement 19,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 719.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Cal 39 Mk Iii Sailboat

Designed by the legendary C. William Lapworth and built by Bangor Punta starting in 1983, this refined iteration of the Cal 39 represents the evolution of a proven coastal cruiser-racer platform. Lapworth's signature design philosophy shines through in the balanced proportions and moderate dimensions that made Cal boats popular among sailors seeking versatile performance. With its fin keel and spade rudder configuration, the Mk III delivers responsive handling and solid windward ability, while the masthead sloop rig provides straightforward sail handling for shorthanded crews. The displacement of 19,000 pounds with 7,000 pounds of ballast creates a stable platform that's comfortable in coastal waters and capable of extended offshore passages. The boat's sail area-to-displacement ratio of 16.22 indicates spirited performance in light to moderate conditions, while the comfort ratio of 31.41 suggests motion that's acceptable for coastal cruising rather than extended ocean passages. The capsize screening value of 1.8 falls within acceptable limits for offshore sailing, though the boat truly excels in coastal and near-shore environments. This Cal 39 variant appeals to sailors wanting a well-balanced boat capable of club racing, weekend cruising, and occasional longer passages, backed by Lapworth's reputation for creating seaworthy, practical designs.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 39.00 ft / 11.89 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 32.08 ft / 9.78 m
Beam 12.00 ft / 3.66 m
Max Draft 6.75 ft / 2.06 m
Displacement 19,000.00 lb / 8,618 kg
Ballast 7,000.00 lb / 3,175 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 719.00 ft² / 66.80 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer C. William Lapworth
Builder Bangor Punta
First Built 1983
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Universal or Pathfinder
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 44
Fuel Capacity 43 gals / 163 L
Water Capacity 125 gals / 473 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cal 39 Mk Iii's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Cal 39 Mk Iii has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.22. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Cal 39 Mk Iii's comfort ratio?

The Cal 39 Mk Iii has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 31.41. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Cal 39 Mk Iii safe for offshore sailing?

The Cal 39 Mk Iii has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.8. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Cal 39 Mk Iii?

The theoretical hull speed of the Cal 39 Mk Iii is 7.59 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Cal 39 Mk Iii weigh?

The Cal 39 Mk Iii has a displacement of 19,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 39.00 ft.

Who designed the Cal 39 Mk Iii?

The Cal 39 Mk Iii was designed by C. William Lapworth, first built in 1983.