1980 CAL 39Sold
$57,000
Boat in Monterey, CA 93940 US
39
1 Engine (Perkins)
39 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
39' Cal 39 '80 "Helios"
Willam Lapworth III designed The CAL 39, introduced in 1971, and it was one of the first defining "Performance Cruisers". The boat remained in production thru 1986.
A well-balanced boat with a fast keel, big spade rudder, stiff rig and generous accommodations, the Cal 39 is a very sweet sailing boat and modest liveaboard. Many 39s have been retrofit into serious cruisers and owners rave about the sea-kindly motion and good turn of speed. The powerful hull shape can carry sail in a blow and can also be loaded up with stores without sacrificing too much performance.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Entering from the companionway, the Cal 39 has a wide open salon with nav station and galley. The U-shaped galley is on port with a stainless steel sink, three burner stove and oven and a fridge/freezer combo. The engine and instrument panel is under the companionway ladder. On starboard is a nav station and a double quarter berth. Going forward on starboard is a long settee and cabinet. To port there is an L-shaped settee and table that can be made into a double berth. The enclosed head is on port forward of the salon and a hanging locker on starboard. The v-berth is forward with storage lockers.
Dometic 12V refrigerator/freezer
Kenyon alcohol stove with oven
Cuisinart toaster oven
Mr. Coffee coffee maker
Pressure water system
(2) sinks
Lawrence depth sounder
Raymarine EV-200 autopilot
Ritchie 5” compass
Raymarine GPS
Raymarine Axiom 7 chart plotter
SH Explorer VHF radio
SH HX210 hand-held VHF radio
Clock and barometer
12V DC and 110V AC
(4) West Marine group 27 batteries – 90 amp hr each
Eveready group 24 windlass battery
Battery parallel switch
Blue Sea M2 battery monitor
ProSport HD12 battery charger
50’ 30-amp shore power cord
22-lb Danforth anchor with chain and rode
Bimini, wheel and mainsail cover
Cockpit seats and cushions
Anchor and steaming lights
Running lights
Spreader light
Bow pulpit and rails
Lifelines and stanchions
Boarding gates
Dock lines and fenders
Swim ladder
Swim platform
BBQ
Dinghy davits
Outboard mount
Windex
Actual LOA: 40’
Wire standing rigging
Aluminum keel-stepped mast
Mainsheet traveler
Schaeffer 2100 roller furling on headsail
(4) Lewmar adjustable cars
Winches:
(2) Barient 28 primaries
(1) Barient 18 and 22 on mast
(1) Barient 10 on deck for outhaul
Sails:
Mainsail
Roller reefing Genoa, short hoist
Emergency engine stop
Engine alarm
Raw water sea strainer
Stove fuel shut-off valve
Cockpit engine controls
Manual engine fire extinguishing
(1) manual and (1) electric bilge pump
Manual wheel steering
Manual head
(2) fire extinguishers
Zodiac life raft
LifeSling
All seller’s personal effects on board are excluded from the sale of this vessel.
Personal gear and fishing equipment including tackle boxes excluded from list of equipment
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2/5/26 | Initial price | $57,000 |
1980 CAL 39 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1980 CAL 39
Customers consistently praise the 1980 CAL 39 for its solid construction and classic design, highlighting its spacious interior and comfortable accommodations for extended cruising
Many appreciate its balanced sailing performance, noting that it handles well in a variety of conditions. Owners often mention the boat’s durable build quality and reliable systems, making it a trusted choice for both coastal and offshore sailing. Overall, the 1980 CAL 39 is regarded as a timeless cruiser that offers excellent value and a rewarding sailing experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1980 CAL 39 is a classic cruiser known for its solid construction and balanced sailing performance. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Sturdy Build: The CAL 39 features a robust fiberglass hull, providing durability and longevity.
Balanced Sailing: Known for good handling and stability, it performs well both upwind and downwind.
Spacious Interior: Offers comfortable accommodations for extended cruising, with ample headroom and storage.
Traditional Design: Classic lines and a timeless aesthetic appeal to sailors who appreciate vintage styling.
Good Resale Value: Due to its reputation and build quality, it tends to hold value well in the used boat market.
Cons
Older Systems: Being a 1980 model, some onboard systems and equipment may be outdated and require upgrades.
Maintenance Needs: Older fiberglass and wood trim may need regular maintenance to keep the boat in top condition.
Performance Limitations: While solid, it may not match the speed or responsiveness of more modern designs.
Heavier Weight: The boat’s heavier displacement can impact agility and trailering options.
Limited Modern Amenities: Lacks some of the conveniences and technological advancements found on newer vessels.
Made For
The 1980 CAL 39 is designed for sailors seeking a classic, well-crafted cruiser-racer that offers a blend of performance and comfort. Ideal for those who appreciate traditional lines and solid construction, this boat suits experienced sailors looking for a reliable vessel capable of both competitive racing and enjoyable coastal or offshore cruising. Its spacious interior and robust build make it perfect for families or couples who value a versatile sailboat that can handle extended voyages with ease.
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Meet the Broker

Address
Boat Location
Contact Yachtfinders Windseakers about 1980 CAL 39
2330 Shelter Island Drive, Suite 207, San Diego, CA, 92106
Contact Yachtfinders Windseakers
2330 Shelter Island Drive, Suite 207, San Diego, CA, 92106

























