Designed by the legendary Sparkman & Stephens firm during their golden era, this 39-footer represents classic American yacht design from the 1970s. Built by various manufacturers between 1971 and 1980, the SS 39 embodies the transitional period when sailboat design was evolving from heavy displacement cruisers toward more modern fin keel configurations. The boat's substantial 18,805-pound displacement and moderate comfort ratio of 33.8 suggest excellent seaworthiness for coastal and offshore passages, while the fin keel with rudder on skeg arrangement provides good directional stability and reasonable performance. Her masthead sloop rig carries 657 square feet of sail area, delivering a sail area to displacement ratio that balances cruising comfort with respectable sailing ability. With a theoretical hull speed of 7.29 knots and a reassuring capsize screening value of 1.77, this design prioritizes safety and steady progress over pure speed. The generous beam of 11.75 feet creates spacious accommodations below while contributing to initial stability. Sparkman & Stephens' reputation for creating well-balanced, seaworthy designs shines through in this model, making it an attractive option for serious cruising sailors seeking a proven offshore platform with classic lines and dependable performance characteristics.
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What is the Ss 39's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Ss 39 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 14.92. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Ss 39's comfort ratio?
The Ss 39 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.8. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Ss 39 safe for offshore sailing?
The Ss 39 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.77. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Ss 39?
The theoretical hull speed of the Ss 39 is 7.29 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Ss 39 weigh?
The Ss 39 has a displacement of 18,805.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 38.60 ft.
Who designed the Ss 39?
The Ss 39 was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, first built in 1971.