This model, launched in 2011, represents a breaking point in the famous history of the Italian shipyard Cantiere del Pardo. After ups and downs during the turbulent last decade, Grand Soleil eventually got back into the hands of Italian investors and the appreciated naval architect Claudio Maletto. He introduced an entirely new look of the Grand Soleil range, combining clean and imposing lines inherited from the early models with a dynamic style appropriate for modern trends. The solutions of the deck equipment, hull shape, the keel and sails plan strongly indicate her potential for sailing performances.
The ballast/displacement ratio of 1:3 supports a mighty sailing surface of 82m² (45 m² of mainsail and 37 m² of jib) and provides a good level of safety. The Grand Soleil 39 is very easy to handle under sails and maneuver in port thanks to a pretty deep rudder while the draft of the T-shaped keel is 2.4 m. The optional versions of this cute baby include a performance (race) 49.6 m² mainsail, 38.2 m² jib and 2 m deep keel. The engine can also be chosen between the Volvo 29 or 40 HP, while the tanks hold as much as 185 l of diesel and 320 l of fresh water. For the ultimate sailing experience there is a 169 m² gennaker.
Source: Grand Soleil
The elegance of the Grand Soleil 39 is emphasized by the light teak deck fitting with grey joints. All cleats on the deck are folding, which contributes to both the elegance and practicality, whereas the anchor holder and winch are hidden under the hatch in the bow. Can you imagine how much easier it is to handle the gennaker without those metal obstacles… Even more, the jib sheet traveler rails are placed under the deck level so the jib sheets are connected with the cockpit under the deck. Such minimalistic deck design not only emphasizes the overall elegance, but raises the level of safety as well. The cockpit equipment is more or less well ergonomically placed except the unusual T-shaped system for mainsail trim which puts the traveler rail in front of the twin steering wheels, connected to two stern winches. Those can be handled by the helmsmen, which is quite fine for leisure sailing but can be a disadvantage for racing.
The Grand Soleil 39 comes in two versions, with two or three cabins and with one or two heads, which makes her appropriate both for private use or charter. The galley is equipped with two refrigerators (one can be used as a freezer), a twin sink and a plenty of storage space and cabins. There is a large folding dining table in the saloon, while the navigation table could be a little bit bigger. However, although the Grand Soleil 39 is the smallest in the range, she provides a great deal of pleasure.
I wish you a calm sea, a fair wind and a strong mast!