1987 Liberty 39
$150,000
Boat in Seattle, WA 98109 US
Built in 1987
39
1 Engine (Yanmar)
38.8 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
MOTIVATED SELLER
The Liberty Gatsby is a rare pilothouse motorsailer built in low maintenance fiberglass construction to a classic design. Designed for extended cruising and liveaboard comfort, she combines the traditional aesthetic of a classic yacht with the practicality of modern systems. A 66 horsepower Yanmar diesel pushes her easily and efficiently and is well insulated in her spacious engine room beneath the pilothouse. Her beautifully finished interior is warm and inviting - featuring a full beam master stateroom with separate shower stall, a large galley and a spacious salon.
Step below and the Gatsby reveals her true character — a warm, handcrafted interior finished in teak with oak cabin sole. Her joinery is finely executed, with generous use of solid wood and louvered doors.
The pilothouse provides all-weather steering and full visibility with opening windows. The helm station is to port with a folding directors chair. Access to the deck is via the port side door. There is seating aft in the pilothouse surrounding a table that may be removed and installed on the aft deck. Along the starboard side of the pilothouse is the nav station that doubles as a pilot berth.
The salon is inviting, featuring a large dining table with seating for six – a straight settee to starboard and settee with return to port.
A U-shaped galley to starboard offers spacious countertops, deep stainless sinks, propane stove and oven, and ample counter space and storage for extended cruising.
The owner’s stateroom aft features a centerline queen berth, dressing area, and private access to the head with Vacuflush toilet and a separate enclosed shower.
Ventilation and natural light are excellent thanks to numerous opening ports and overhead hatches.
Double sink with pressure hot/cold water and raw and fresh water foot pumps
Nova Kool 12v refrigerator/freezer
Force 10 propane three burner stove and oven
(2) aluminum propane tanks
Propane solenoid with Marinetics control panel
Espar diesel fired cabin heater
Electric flush toilet
Gobius holding tank level monitor
Seaward 6 gallon water heater
Raymarine C80 chartplotter
Raymarine ST60 tridata instrument
Raymarine radar antenna available but not installed
Robertson AP1000 autopilot
Robertson RI101 rudder angle indicator
Brown Brothers & Co Rosebank Ironworks bronze steering wheels at pilothouse and aft deck
Simrad RS35 VHF radio
West Marine handhelf VHF
Ritchie Powerdamp compass
Bronze running lights
Bronze search light
Horn
Royal Mariner clock and barometer
Binoculars
12v DC and 120v AC electrical systems
AC/DC distribution panel with AC and DC voltmeters and ammeters
Smart Plug 30 amp shore power inlet and 50’ cord
Magnum inverter/charger with remote control panel
(4) Lifeline GPL4CT house batteries
Lifeline engine start battery
Powered by a reliable Yanmar 4JH-HTE 66 hp turbocharged diesel, the Gatsby cruises comfortably at 7 knots and has a range of nearly 500 nautical miles. The engine is mounted amidships beneath the pilothouse sole for optimal access – opening doors in the passageway and removable sole panels in the pilothouse provide excellent all around access.
Yanmar 4JH-HTE 66 hp turbocharged diesel (1911 hours)
Direct drive transmission
PSS dripless shaft seal
Yanmar engine control panel with tachometer, temperature and oil pressure gauges
Four blade fixed propeller
Balmar 120 amp high output alternator
Racor primary fuel filter with lift pump
Bronze dual lever engine controls at pilothouse and aft deck helm stations
The Liberty Gatsby’s hull is hand-laid fiberglass - exceptionally thick below the waterline for strength and longevity. Eighteen layers are used from the waterline to the rail, twenty from keel to waterline, and twenty-four in the keel itself. She received five coats of barrier coat in 2011. Above the waterline, the hull is insulated with half-inch end grain balsa for temperature and sound control. Decks are cored with end-grain balsa and finished with teak overlay. The teak decks were replaced with new ½” teak in 2004. Substantial teak caprails and rubrails with bronze strike plates complete her traditional look.
Bronze Maxwell Nilsson vertical capstan anchor windlass
Forfjord 65lb anchor in hawse pipe with 300’ 3/8 chain
(2) bronze cowl vents
Mast and boom with wire rigging
Reel of floating line for stern ties
(2) folding seat cushions
Directors chair at pilothouse
Fish landing net
Dehumidifier
Fiberglass dinghy with oars
Whale Gusher portable manual emergency bilge pump
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.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/7/26 | Initial price | $150,000 |
Videos from Swiftsure Yachts on this 1987 Liberty 39
Overview from around the web 1987 Liberty 39
Customers praise the 1987 Liberty 39 for its solid construction and classic design, highlighting its spacious interior and comfortable accommodations for extended cruising
Many appreciate the boat’s sailing performance, noting its balanced handling and reliable rigging. Owners often mention the ample storage and well-thought-out layout, making it ideal for both family outings and longer voyages. Overall, the Liberty 39 from 1987 is regarded as a dependable and charming cruiser that offers great value for sailors seeking a traditional yacht with enduring appeal.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1987 Liberty 39 is a well-regarded sailboat that offers a blend of classic design and solid construction. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Solid Construction: Built with a sturdy fiberglass hull, the Liberty 39 is known for its durability and longevity.
Spacious Interior: Offers comfortable accommodations for extended cruising, including ample headroom and well-laid-out living spaces.
Good Sailing Performance: With a moderate sail plan and balanced hull design, it handles well in a variety of conditions, making it suitable for both coastal and offshore sailing.
Classic Styling: Timeless design elements appeal to sailors who appreciate traditional aesthetics.
Reliable Systems: Many models feature dependable mechanical and rigging systems that are relatively easy to maintain.
Cons
Older Design: Being a 1987 model, some aspects of the design and equipment may feel dated compared to modern sailboats.
Weight: The boat tends to be on the heavier side, which can affect acceleration and light wind performance.
Maintenance Requirements: Like many older vessels, ongoing maintenance and occasional upgrades may be necessary to keep systems up to date.
Limited Storage: While interior space is good for living, storage for gear and provisions can be somewhat limited relative to newer designs.
Availability of Parts: Some original components may be harder to find, requiring custom solutions or replacements.
Made For
The 1987 Liberty 39 is ideal for sailors seeking a classic, well-built cruising sailboat that combines solid performance with comfortable accommodations. It’s perfect for those who appreciate traditional design and want a reliable vessel for coastal cruising or longer passages. Whether you're an experienced sailor looking for a sturdy and manageable boat or a couple desiring spacious living quarters for extended trips, the Liberty 39 offers a great balance of functionality and comfort.
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In 2002 the partners of Swiftsure Yachts joined to create a full service brokerage for sailors buying or selling high quality boats. A team approach, in-depth expertise and exceptional service are the hallmarks of our business plan and are designed to ensure we meet our customers' expectations.
Boat Location
Contact Swiftsure Yachts about 1987 Liberty 39
2540 Westlake Avenue North, Suite A, Seattle, WA, 98109
Contact Swiftsure Yachts
2540 Westlake Avenue North, Suite A, Seattle, WA, 98109
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