CONTESSA 39

About the CONTESSA 39

Sloop rigged but designed and constructed to ocean sail as a cutter. There is an inner foredeck chain plate, inner headsail and staysail. Jeremy Rogers developed vacuum bag assisted resin transfer systems for building the Contessa 32 & 39 models. The CONTESSA 39 'Eclipse', owned by builder Jeremy Rogers, finished 2nd overall in the notorious Fastnet Race of 1979.

The Contessa 39 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising sloop designed by Doug Peterson and built by Jeremy Rogers in the UK, with only 12 hulls constructed in 1979. Its substantial build quality and classic design have earned it a dedicated following among owners who value seakindliness and traditional craftsmanship.

Best for:

This boat is ideally suited for experienced coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize comfort and safety over speed, particularly those willing to invest significant time and resources into maintaining its complex wooden and composite structure.

Bluewater capability:

With a displacement of 14250.0 lb and a low capsize ratio of 2.02, the Contessa 39 is inherently stable and well-suited for bluewater passages, provided its critical structural components are meticulously maintained.

Comparables:

Comparable vessels include the Hallberg-Rassy 38 and the Tartan 38, as they share similar heavy displacement, fin keel configurations, and a reputation for robust offshore capability within the late-1970s production era.