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Sailboat Specifications

Cavalier 39

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Bob Salthouse · Built by Export Yachts New Zealand Ltd. · First built 1973

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LOA 39.00 ft  ·  Beam 11.33 ft  ·  Displacement 18,700.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 813.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Cavalier 39 Sailboat

Designed by renowned New Zealand naval architect Bob Salthouse and built by Export Yachts New Zealand Ltd., this substantial cruising sailboat represents classic 1970s offshore design philosophy. With only 35 hulls constructed between 1973 and 1979, the Cavalier 39 remains a relatively rare find in today's market. The boat's impressive displacement of 18,700 pounds and generous ballast ratio create exceptional stability and seaworthiness for extended coastal and offshore passages. Her fin keel with rudder mounted on a protective skeg offers good performance while providing crucial rudder protection in challenging conditions. The masthead sloop rig delivers versatile sailing characteristics suitable for both spirited coastal sailing and comfortable long-distance cruising. Salthouse's design emphasizes seaworthiness over speed, evident in the boat's moderate sail area to displacement ratio and robust construction. The fiberglass hull demonstrates the solid build quality Export Yachts was known for during this era. With a comfortable motion at sea and predictable handling characteristics, this design appeals to sailors seeking a dependable platform for serious cruising adventures. The Cavalier 39's combination of New Zealand craftsmanship and proven design makes it an attractive option for sailors planning extended voyages or those who simply appreciate traditional offshore sailing qualities.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 39.00 ft / 11.89 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 29.50 ft / 8.99 m
Beam 11.33 ft / 3.45 m
Max Draft 6.00 ft / 1.83 m
Displacement 18,700.00 lb / 8,482 kg
Ballast 7,500.00 lb / 3,402 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 813.00 ft² / 75.53 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Bob Salthouse
Builder Export Yachts New Zealand Ltd.
First Built 1973
Last Built 1979
Number Built 35
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 51
Fuel Capacity 50 gals / 189 L
Water Capacity 100 gals / 379 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cavalier 39's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Cavalier 39 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.53. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Cavalier 39's comfort ratio?

The Cavalier 39 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 35.23. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Cavalier 39 safe for offshore sailing?

The Cavalier 39 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.71. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Cavalier 39?

The theoretical hull speed of the Cavalier 39 is 7.28 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Cavalier 39 weigh?

The Cavalier 39 has a displacement of 18,700.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 39.00 ft.

Who designed the Cavalier 39?

The Cavalier 39 was designed by Bob Salthouse, first built in 1973.