Bristol 39
The Bristol 39 is an American sailboat designed by Ted Hood as a racer-cruiser. It was first built in 1966 by Bristol Yachts in Bristol, Rhode Island, and 58 were made before production shifted to the Bristol 40 in 1970. Both boats share the same hull molds and overall dimensions, but the Bristol 39 is 39 feet long overall while the Bristol 40 is a bit longer.
Key facts
- Role: racer-cruiser
- Builder: Bristol Yachts (United States)
- Year and production: 1966–1970; 58 built
- Hull: fiberglass, monohull with wood trim
- Rig: Bermuda sail plan, masthead sloope
- Lengths: LOA 39.00 ft, LWL 27.54 ft, Beam 10.75 ft
- Draft: 5.40 ft with the fixed long keel; centerboard version drafts 7.8 ft with board down and 4.0 ft with it up
- Displacement and ballast: 17,580 lb displacement; 6,500 lb ballast (lead)
- Rudder: keel-mounted rudder operated by wheel
- Engine: Perkins 4-107 diesel, 37 hp
- Tank capacities: fuel 25 gallons, water 130 gallons
- Sails: mainsail 316 sq ft, jib 332.15 sq ft; total sail area 648.15 sq ft
- Design details: spooned stem, raised counter reverse transom
- Related development: Bristol 40 (same hull molds, longer overall length)
- Notable notes: The Bristol 39 is appreciated for its classic looks, solid construction, and comfortable liveaboard space, with buyers noting its blend of performance and value.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 14:00 (CET).