The Sun Odyssey 39i remained in Jeanneau’s catalog for 4 years. This 11-meter sailboat, designed by Marc Lombard, is a smart cruiser that deserves attention on the second-hand market.
The Sun Odyssey 39i is an 11-meter cruising sailboat. It was built by the Jeanneau shipyard and designed by architect Marc Lombard. Launched in 2005 to succeed the Sun Odyssey 37, this fixed-keel monohull with a fractional sloop rig quickly established itself as a benchmark in its category. It embodies a balance between elegance, comfort, and performance, appealing to both cruising enthusiasts and sailors who enjoy the thrill of sailing.
Key Features
- Architect: Marc Lombard
- Production Period: 2005 to 2010
- Length: 11.86 m
- Beam: 3.88 m
- Draft: 2.00 m (deep keel)
- Displacement: 7,250 kg
- Upwind Sail Area: 71 m²
- Engine: Yanmar 40 hp diesel
- Accommodation: 2 or 3 cabins, bright salon, equipped galley
- Strengths: Stiffness under sail, ease of handling, interior comfort, cruising/racing versatility
History of the Boat
The Sun Odyssey 39i was born from Jeanneau’s desire to offer a successor to the iconic Sun Odyssey 37, which had enjoyed a successful career under various names. Marc Lombard, a renowned architect known for his high-performance hulls and functional interiors, designed this new model. Production ran from 2005 to 2010, during which the 39i established itself against competitors such as the Dufour 385, the Bavaria 38, the First 36, and the Hanse 370. The “i” in its name refers to its injection-molded deck, an innovation at the time that lightened the structure while improving rigidity.
The initial program aimed for a versatile sailboat, capable of performing in regattas while offering optimal comfort for family cruising. The 39i inherited the qualities of its predecessor while correcting certain flaws, notably by adopting a deeper keel (2.00 m) for better stiffness under sail and improved course stability. The fiberglass construction and injected deck allowed for weight savings and durability while maintaining a refined finish.
Interior Layout
The interior of the Sun Odyssey 39i stands out for its classic and refined atmosphere, with light wood and quality finishes. Two layout versions were offered: a two-cabin configuration with one head, or three cabins for families or larger crews. The salon, spacious and bright thanks to numerous portholes and a profiled roof, features a convertible chart table and a convivial space.
The well-equipped galley allows for meal preparation both at sea and in port. The cabins, with comfortable berths and generous storage, provide appreciable comfort for extended cruises. The headroom reaches 1.88 m in the forward cabin, a significant advantage for onboard comfort.
Sailing Qualities
The Sun Odyssey 39i is recognized for its ease of handling and reassuring sea behavior. The hull, designed by Marc Lombard, offers good fluidity and remarkable course stability, even in rough seas. The deep keel and lead ballast ensure surprising stiffness under sail, allowing for serene navigation in strong winds. The well-balanced rigging and generous sails (71 m² upwind) provide good performance both upwind and downwind, with a moderate tendency to luff in light winds.
Owners highlight its stability and responsiveness, as well as its ability to handle waves without slamming. The large, ergonomic cockpit facilitates maneuvering and offers a pleasant outdoor living space. The aft swimming platform, practical for swimming, and the secure side decks complete a design focused on the pleasure of sailing.
Owners’ Reviews
Owner feedback is generally very positive. Many appreciate the balance between performance and comfort, as well as the robustness of the construction. Some note, however, a lack of ventilation in the cabins and the occasional need for a third reefing line in strong winds to prevent luffing. The finishes and fittings are praised for their quality, although the after-sales service of some dealers is sometimes criticized.
One owner summarizes: “We have owned a Sun Odyssey 39i since 2007. It is a calm and safe boat that performs well even in strong winds. We equipped it with a furling mast and a genoa furler for simplicity. The second aft cabin serves as a large storage space, which is very practical.” Another adds: “The 39i is very seaworthy, handles waves well, and is stiff under sail. It is a real pleasure to steer, even if it is not a pure racing sailboat.”
Sun Odyssey 39i Technical Specifications
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Builder | Jeanneau |
| Architect | Marc Lombard |
| Launch Year | 2005 |
| End of Production | 2010 |
| Length Overall | 11.86 m |
| Waterline Length | 10.71 m |
| Beam | 3.88 m |
| Draft | 2.00 m (deep keel) |
| Displacement | 7,250 kg |
| Ballast | 2,280 kg (lead) |
| Upwind Sail Area | 71 m² (genoa 35 m², mainsail 36 m²) |
| Engine | Yanmar 40 hp diesel, shaft drive |
| Tank Capacity | Water: 330 L / Fuel: 150 L |
| Accommodation | 2 or 3 cabins, 1 head, convertible salon, equipped galley |
| Materials | Fiberglass hull and deck, injected deck |
| Rigging | Fractional sloop |
| Headroom | 1.88 m (forward cabin) |
| Berths | 6 people |
| Strengths | Stiffness under sail, ease of handling, interior comfort, versatility |
