GULFSTAR 39 SAILMASTER
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 39.58 ft |
| LWL | 32.42 ft |
| Beam | 12.06 ft |
| Draft | 4.75 ft |
| Displacement | 19,000 lb |
| Ballast | 8,200.4 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.6 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 47 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 16.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 40.75 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 14.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 16.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 706.8 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 387.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 659.2 sq ft |
About the GULFSTAR 39 SAILMASTER
MkII version (1982) has quarter berth aft. GULFSTAR 40 (1984?) was based on this same hull but with a center cockpit and built for the charter trade.
Designed by Richard Lazzara and built by Gulfstar Yachts (USA) from 1981–1984, the Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster is a robust cutter-rigged cruiser with a total production of 57 hulls. Its heavy displacement of 19000.0 lb and high D/L ratio of 248.92 reflect a design prioritizing stability and seakindliness over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers and those seeking a comfortable, stable platform for extended offshore passages, particularly those who appreciate the versatility of a cutter rig.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.81 and a comfort ratio of 30.83, the Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster demonstrates strong inherent stability and motion comfort, making it well-regarded for bluewater cruising despite its moderate sail area to displacement ratio of 15.43.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the O'Day 38 and the Hunter 41, which share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and cutter or sloop configurations from the early 1980s, offering similar interior volume and cruising comfort.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceAsking price by model year
6 listings · boat years 1979–1980 · median $88,000
Each dot is one listing · hover for details · dashed red line marks the median · obvious data-entry outliers (top & bottom 2.5%) excluded.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 39.58ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
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Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
7 reported issues across 3 systems for the GULFSTAR 39 SAILMASTER, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a GULFSTAR 39 SAILMASTER? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 7 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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