Skipper a Clipper

Thanks to a generous beam carried well aft, interior volume of the Jeanneau 39i is greater than one would expect on a 39-footer. The boat's a breeze to operate under sail or power: The helm is light, and the boat responds obediently to a flick of the fingers on the wheel.

Halyards, reefing and furling lines, and the mainsheet are led aft to winches on either side of the companionway; primary winches are on the coamings just forward of the twin wheels. The big, triangular cockpit is comfortable for lounging, and a centerline table has plenty of room for six to dine alfresco. A hot and cold water transom shower is handy to the broad swim platform.

The roomy forward cabin has a large V-berth and ample storage space in hanging lockers and on shelves. The saloon is large, airy, and comfortable. A wraparound dinette to starboard, just forward of an L-shaped galley, has seating for five or six.

A settee berth is opposite, just forward of the nav station. On the two cabin layout, the spacious head to port features a separate shower with a seat.

On the three cabin layout, the head is considerably smaller and doesn't have a separate shower. Owners can choose a large aft cabin to starboard or twin aft cabins. All staterooms have fore-and-aft double berths.